Petroglyph & Dinosaur Track Tours with Family Tours in Ivins - St. George

Petroglyph & Dinosaur Track Tours with Family Tours in Ivins

St. Georgeeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–4 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; requires moderate walking on uneven surfaces

Overview

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.

Details

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.

Adventure Tips

Wear sturdy footwear

Rocky, uneven terrain requires good hiking shoes for stable footing.

Bring plenty of water

Desert conditions can quickly lead to dehydration, so carry at least 2 liters per person.

Stay on designated paths

Protect fragile petroglyph panels and fossil sites by following guides’ instructions and staying on marked trails.

Apply sun protection

Wide-open desert landscapes offer little shade; use sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Little Creek Canyon petroglyph alcoves
  • Moenave dinosaur footprint slab

Wildlife

  • desert bighorn sheep
  • greater roadrunner

History

Petroglyphs in the area date back over 1,000 years and record stories of the ancient Ancestral Puebloan culture.

Conservation

Family Tours emphasizes minimal impact by educating guests on preserving fragile archaeological and paleontological sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

early morning
late afternoon
golden hour

Best Viewpoints

  • Red Cliffs cliffs with petroglyph panels
  • dinosaur track slabs
  • panoramic desert vistas near Ivins

What to Photograph

petroglyph carvings
dinosaur footprints
red sandstone formations

Recommended Gear

Hiking shoes

Essential

Provide traction and ankle support on rocky, uneven terrain.

Water bottle or hydration pack

Essential

Keeps you hydrated in the dry desert heat, especially critical in warmer months.

summer specific

Sun hat

Essential

Protects your face and neck from intense sun exposure.

spring|summer|fall specific

Light layered clothing

Essential

Allows temperature regulation in cool mornings and warmer afternoons.

fall|winter specific