easy
2–4 hours
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires moderate walking on uneven surfaces
Discover the ancient stories etched in stone and fossilized in red rock around Ivins, Utah. Family Tours offers immersive petroglyph and dinosaur track adventures that reveal the region’s unique geological and cultural heritage.
Located in southern Utah, the town of Ivins offers a gateway into some of the Southwest’s most fascinating ancient landscapes. Family Tours provides memorable guided experiences focused on two extraordinary outdoor adventures: petroglyph viewing and dinosaur track tours. These trips transport visitors beyond the usual hiking trail, offering a tangible connection to the region’s deep history and geology. The area around Ivins is defined by spectacular red sandstone formations typical of the Colorado Plateau. This rugged terrain holds stories carved by native cultures and prehistoric creatures—making these tours a unique blend of natural beauty and archaeology.
The Petroglyph Tour reveals ancient rock art etched by the Ancestral Puebloans and other Native American groups. Sharp, detailed symbols and figures appear on sandstone cliffs and rock faces, offering insight into the lives and beliefs of those who lived here centuries ago. Guides from Family Tours share the cultural significance behind these markings, pointing out features usually missed by casual visitors.
In contrast, the Dinosaur Track Tour immerses travelers in a landscape once roamed by massive creatures of the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous periods. Footprints left behind in hardened mudstone tell stories of long-extinct species, preserved at locations where erosion exposes the past in striking detail. These tours provide an engaging way to witness the geology and paleontology that make southern Utah a hotspot for fossil hunters and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Family Tours stands out by combining outdoor adventure with education, emphasizing stewardship and respect for these delicate sites. Their small-group trips allow for a personal experience that helps protect the environment while delivering a rich exploration of Utah’s cultural and natural history. The vivid red rocks, quiet desert atmosphere, and profound historical context make Ivins a compelling stop for travelers seeking something beyond traditional hikes or sightseeing tours. Whether pointing out intricate petroglyphs or massive dinosaur tracks, Family Tours invites visitors to walk alongside history itself.
Rocky, uneven terrain requires good hiking shoes for stable footing.
Desert conditions can quickly lead to dehydration, so carry at least 2 liters per person.
Protect fragile petroglyph panels and fossil sites by following guides’ instructions and staying on marked trails.
Wide-open desert landscapes offer little shade; use sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
Petroglyphs in the area date back over 1,000 years and record stories of the ancient Ancestral Puebloan culture.
Family Tours emphasizes minimal impact by educating guests on preserving fragile archaeological and paleontological sites.
Provide traction and ankle support on rocky, uneven terrain.
Keeps you hydrated in the dry desert heat, especially critical in warmer months.
summer specific
Protects your face and neck from intense sun exposure.
spring|summer|fall specific
Allows temperature regulation in cool mornings and warmer afternoons.
fall|winter specific