Dinosaur Adventures at Morrison Natural History Museum, CO
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all ages and fitness levels; light walking required outside.
Overview
Uncover Colorado’s ancient dinosaur past at Morrison Natural History Museum. Hands-on fossil experiences and live digs await just west of Denver.
Dinosaur Adventures at Morrison Natural History Museum, CO
Adventure Tips
Book Guided Tours Early
Reserve your spot on the guided tours in advance to ensure availability, especially on weekends and holidays.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The museum features a small outdoor trail to fossil sites; sturdy shoes will make the hike more enjoyable.
Prepare for Touch-Friendly Displays
Fossils are hands-on here — bring clean hands and be ready to get up close with ancient bones.
Volunteering Requires Training
If you want to join excavation projects like the Triceratops Gulch, plan for a brief training session beforehand.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Mule deer frequent the nearby foothills
- Red-tailed hawks soar above the mesa
History
Morrison is renowned for its rich Jurassic fossil beds, which have contributed significantly to paleontology since the late 19th century.
Conservation
The museum promotes sustainable paleontology by involving visitors in responsible fossil excavation and education on protecting fossil sites.
Adventure Hotspots in Denver
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Essential for hiking the outdoor fossil site and museum trails.
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during outdoor activities in warm weather.
summer specific
Sun Protection
Hat and sunscreen are recommended for exposed outdoor areas.
summer specific
Layered Clothing
Be prepared for temperature changes, especially in cooler seasons.
fall|spring|winter specific