More than Dinosaurs: The Essential Guide to Vernal, Utah

Whitewater, Petroglyphs & Local Bites in Dinosaurland

When most people hear “Dinosaur National Monument,” their minds conjure up exactly what you’d expect: ancient dinosaur bones, fascinating fossils, and jaw-dropping geology. But Vernal, Utah—the small town that serves as the western gateway to the Monument—has a lot more to offer than just dinosaurs. If you’re ready to tackle the rapids, hit the trails, and eat like a local, here’s how to make the most of your trip to Dinosaurland.

Top Things to Do in & Around Vernal

If you’re looking to experience what makes the area truly special, Vernal and the greater Uintah Basin offer up plenty of adventures worth adding to your list.

Do the “Best 1-day Rafting Trip in the West”

If you truly want to immerse yourself in the beauty of Dinosaur National Monument, there’s no better way to do it than on a Split Mountain Canyon rafting adventure. The Green River’s lively Class II-III rapids and awe-inspiring scenery make this iconic 1-day Utah rafting trip one of the most memorable things you can do during your visit to Vernal. Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, you’re guaranteed to have a splashy good time you’ll never forget. And because little river runners as young as six (11 during high water) can join the trip, it’s the perfect way to spend a WiFi-free day with the whole family.

Pro tip: If one day isn’t enough, consider a multi-day expedition through the Gates of Lodore or the wild Yampa River. These trips offer exclusive access to the Monument’s most remote corners, including the famous Tiger Wall and Mantle Cave, a significant Fremont cultural site that sits 400 feet above the Yampa in Castle Park.

Touch Real Dinosaur Bones

Sure, there’s so much more to Vernal than dinosaurs alone, but no visit to the area would be complete without a trip to the Quarry Exhibit Hall at Dinosaur National Monument. If you’re the type of tactile person who has a hard time not touching things at museums, this spot is for you. Built directly into the Morrison Formation from the Late Jurassic period, the Quarry features exposed rock layers that contain over 1,500 fossilized dinosaur bones. And yes, some of them you can actually touch. Go ahead, let your inner child squeal with sheer elation. Perfect for families and dinophiles alike.

Visit the McConkie Ranch Petroglyphs

Less than 20 minutes from Vernal is McConkie Ranch, home to three well-preserved panels of petroglyphs and pictographs from the Fremont era. Free to the public, these impressive rock art panels are accessed via two different trails. The Upper Main Panel Trail is ~1-mile out-and-back and leads to the Main Panel and Bear Panel, while the Three Kings Trail is ~1.5 miles out-and-back and takes you to the Three Kings Panel viewpoint. The Three Kings Panel is located high up on the face of the cliff, so bringing binoculars isn’t a bad idea if you want a closer look at what is widely considered to be one of the most impressive petroglyph panels in the world.

While the McConkies have generously opened their land to the public to experience these incredible archeological sites, it is still private property, so be sure to familiarize yourself with the visitation rules before you go and consider making a small donation to support keeping access open to the public.

Explore the Natural History of the Uintah Basin

If you don’t get your fill of dinos at the Quarry Exhibit Hall, you can head over to the Utah Field House of Natural History State Park Museum located right on Main Street in Vernal. Featuring multiple exhibit halls, this 22,000 sq. ft. facility has been fascinating locals and visitors for nearly 80 years. You’ll discover millions of years of geological, anthropological, and natural history as you wander through the museum, complete with interactive exhibits and full dinosaur skeletons. The Dinosaur Garden, which contains life-size replicas of 17 different dinosaur species nestled amongst a garden of local desert flora, is sure to captivate.

Take a Hike to Another World

With a plethora of hiking options around Vernal and Dinosaur National Monument, there’s no shortage of trails for adventurers of all ages and skill levels. For a short and sweet, easy hike with a big payoff, consider a visit to Fantasy Canyon. Less than an hour’s drive from Vernal, this mini canyon lives up to its name by fascinating visitors with unique geological formations that make you feel like you’re on another planet. A half-mile loop trail will lead you through Eocene-aged sandstone pillars and arches that have been weathered and eroded into enchanting shapes. Visitors report seeing everything from witches to animals to aliens in the strange and surreal formations, making Fantasy Canyon a must-do for any geology nerd.

BONUS: Look Up

If you happen to find yourself in Vernal at the end of August, you’re in for a special treat. Each year, the Dinah “SOAR” Days Hot Air Balloon Festival fills the sky with magic, as dozens of colorful hot air balloons float over the town. With vendors, live entertainment, a nighttime balloon glow, and plenty of fun activities for the whole family, Utah’s largest hot air balloon festival has the potential to be the cherry on top of an already epic vacation.

Eat Like the Locals: Vernal’s Best Restaurants

If you want to discover where the locals eat and support small businesses over chain restaurants, Vernal’s growing food scene offers up plenty of gems worth checking out.

For Unbeatable Breakfasts

For a classic all-American breakfast, just remember your ABCs. Abby’s Cafe, Betty’s Cafe, and Carol’s Kitchen are all beloved breakfast spots in the Vernal area, and while locals tend to have their loyalties, most would be hard-pressed to pick just one favorite. Each has its own personality and its own spin on American comfort food, but all deliver the kind of warm, welcoming service that makes you feel like a regular from the moment you walk in. All three locations also offer a lunch menu, but breakfast is what they’re known for, and it’s available all day until they close at 2 PM.

For Local Brews

Vernal Brewing is Vernal’s only brewery and offers up a wide selection of craft beers that have won several Untappd Community Awards. Their menu offers a wide variety of fare—from poutine to shrimp and grits to tacos—so there’s guaranteed to be something for everyone. It’s not uncommon to see this place packed with Chacos, as it’s a frequent haunt for the local river community.

Pro tip: If you happen to be in the area for a multi-day rafting trip through Dinosaur National Monument, you can pick up many of Vernal Brewing’s popular canned beers from local stores, including the 711 just around the corner from the OARS Dinosaur warehouse. Their crisper, lighter options make perfect river beers.

For a Vibrant Atmosphere

Located in the center of downtown on Main Street is Plaza Mexicana, a bustling Mexican restaurant. Vibrant and energetic inside and out, this is the kind of place where the locals gather with friends and family for lots of conversation, lots of laughter, and some seriously good Mexican food. The big portions and big margaritas don’t come cheap, but you’re paying just as much for the vibe as you are for the food, and in this case, it’s worth it if you’re in a “treat yo self” kinda mood.

For the Best Hole-in-the-Wall

If you’re craving Mexican food but don’t want to shell out for Plaza Mexicana, El Sombrero is where it’s at. Located in an old gas station, don’t let the unassuming exterior fool you; locals and visitors agree that this is one of the most authentic Mexican joints in the Uintah Basin, if not the most authentic, and has been around for decades. Family-owned and operated, El Sombrero regularly receives high praise for offering super-friendly service and quick, delicious food.

For an Authentic Taste of Italy

Conveniently located right on Main Street next to the Dinosaur Inn & Suites, this could be considered Vernal’s “rock star” restaurant. Antica Forma gets rave reviews across the interweb from locals and travelers alike. And for good reason. Serving up authentic wood-fired Neapolitan pizza and pasta, head pizzaiolo Israel Hernandez studied under two world-renowned pizzaiolos in New York City and holds a World Caputo Cup bronze medal. The quality of the food shows in the quality of the ingredients, as everything is made fresh in-house daily (including their pasta and mozzarella) or imported from Italy.

For Something Unexpected

When you think of small-town Utah restaurants that are lauded as the “best restaurant in town,” Thai food is probably not the first thing that comes to mind. But Khao Hom Thai Kitchen is one of Vernal’s most highly-rated restaurants. One reviewer claims that Khao Hom is not just the best restaurant in Vernal, but in the entire Uintah Basin. Another states it’s the best Thai food they’ve had outside of Thailand. So it’s no surprise that what started as a charming food truck parked on the property of the owner’s home has since grown into a full-fledged brick-and-mortar restaurant right in downtown Vernal on Main Street.

Where to Stay in the Vernal Area

From an iconic downtown hotel to the banks of the Green River, here are our picks for the best places to stay during your visit to Dinosaurland.

Stay in the Heart of Vernal

For nearly 100 years, Dinosaur Inn & Suites has been giving weary travelers a place to rest their heads. Originally established in 1929 as the Dinosaur Motor Lodge, the storied and heartwarming history of this Vernal institution is definitely worth asking about if you want to stay right downtown. Not only is it within walking distance to many restaurants and attractions, but it is also only a two-minute drive to the OARS Dinosaur warehouse, making it the perfect place to crash before and after your river trip.

Stay on the Green River

For those seeking the full outdoor experience, the Green River Campground is located right inside Dinosaur National Monument and offers spectacular views of Split Mountain. Situated in a cottonwood grove along the bank of the river, the Green River Campground offers tent and RV sites (no hook-ups), flush toilets, and quick, easy access to many attractions within the park. What the campground lacks in amenities, it more than makes up for with breathtaking views.

If you like the idea of camping but don’t want to rough it, the Vernal / Dinosaurland KOA Holiday, located just on the outskirts of Vernal, offers a more elevated experience, with cabins, glamping tents, hot showers and flush toilets, mini golf, a pool, camp store, and so much more.

Stay With the Whole Crew

If you’re traveling with a bigger group of people, several vacation rentals in the area offer a warm and inviting place for the whole gang. For travelers looking for a secluded nature experience, this log house (just down the road from McConkie Ranch) features cozy furnishings and sits on five stunning acres of the Dry Fork of the Ashley River. If historic charm is more your style, this updated Edwardian-era home is less than 10 minutes from downtown and might just be one of the most beautiful places you can stay in Vernal.

What’s the Best Way to Get to Vernal, UT?

Vernal is more accessible than its rugged landscape suggests, sitting within a scenic half-day’s drive of several major travel hubs. While Vernal does have a regional airport, most travelers fly into Salt Lake City (SLC), just 3 hours west, or Grand Junction (GJT), about 3 hours south, and rent a car to enjoy the flexibility of the open road. If you’re coming from the east, Denver (DEN) offers a stunning 6-hour drive through the heart of the Rockies.

Whether you travel to Vernal for a whitewater rafting trip and want to tack on a day or two of exploring the area, or you’re a weekend warrior heading to explore Dinosaur National Monument, these are just a few of our favorite things Dinosaurland has to offer.