Utahraptor State Park: History and Future of Utah’s Newest State Park
Picture yourself walking in the footsteps of dinosaurs, where their echoes still resonate through time. Moab, Utah, serves as a gateway to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the United States, where the past is etched into red sandstone and Jurassic secrets lie just beneath the surface. Among these is the Utahraptor, a fearsome predator that once prowled these lands. Today, you can explore its ancient stomping grounds at Utahraptor State Park, where past and present collide, offering visitors a chance to walk in the footsteps of giants while enjoying Utah’s natural beauty. Let’s look at what makes Utahraptor State Park a must-visit destination.
Explore Utah’s newest state park. Reserve your stay at ULUM Moab for convenient access and comfort.
A Park 135 Million Years in the Making
Utahraptor State Park, established in 2021, is Utah’s newest state park, yet it holds some of the oldest secrets. Located on Highway 191 in Moab, just a stone’s throw from Arches National Park, this park is home to a treasure trove of prehistoric remains, including one of North America’s largest dinosaur bone beds. While the park is still in development, it promises to offer a unique blend of natural beauty and historical wonder once completed. Visitors will soon be able to explore over 50 miles of trails and roads, including routes for ATVs and mountain biking, while discovering the park’s dinosaur displays that tell the story of the giants that called this area home, along with other historical and cultural exhibits connected to the area.
This area is truly one-of-a-kind, home to some of the most accessible Cretaceous-era fossils on the planet. As recreation continues to grow, the need for more facilities and the importance of environmental stewardship have never been greater. The creation of Utahraptor State Park will meet this demand by protecting and preserving these ancient landscapes while providing recreational and educational opportunities for current and future generations.
What is a Utahraptor?
The park’s namesake, the Utahraptor, might remind you of the swift and cunning Velociraptors from the “Jurassic Park” movies. In fact, these cinematic raptors were inspired more by Utahraptor than by the smaller Velociraptors they were named after. The Utahraptor was a predator like no other—larger, faster, and smarter than many of its contemporaries. At over 20 feet long and weighing nearly a ton, it was the ultimate Jurassic predator. This warm-blooded, bird-like dinosaur adds a layer of mystery and fascination to the park, making it a must-see for any dino enthusiast.
History of Utahraptor State Park
The history of Utahraptor State Park is as deep as the Cretaceous period fossils buried within its grounds. The park includes popular recreation spots like Dalton Wells Quarry and Willow Springs, which have yielded over 5,500 dinosaur bones from more than ten species. These sites have provided paleontologists with invaluable insights, advancing our understanding of these ancient creatures. The fossils found here date back 135 to 110 million years, making it one of North America’s most significant paleontological sites and underscoring the need to preserve and protect it.
Enjoying Utahraptor State Park
Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking to experience the grandeur of Utah’s landscapes, Utahraptor State Park has something to offer. With 6,500 acres of rugged terrain, the park invites you to hike, bike, or ride through a landscape that has witnessed millions of years of natural history. And for the paleontologists at heart, the park’s rich fossil resources provide a rare glimpse into the lives of the creatures that once ruled this land.
Planning Your Visit to Utahraptor State Park
Located just 15 miles northwest of Moab in Grand County, Utahraptor State Park is a convenient and thrilling addition to any Moab itinerary. The park charges a day-use fee—$10 per vehicle, $5 for seniors over 62, and $5 for pedestrians and bicyclists or using a Utah State Parks Annual Pass. Though the park is still under development, it’s open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the week, offering a range of primitive recreational activities. For the latest updates on park development, check the Utah Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website.
Where to Stay Near Moab
After a day of exploring Utahraptor State Park, retreat to the luxurious comforts of ULUM Moab, just a short 45-minute drive away. Here, you can unwind amidst sweeping desert views, reflecting on the ancient wonders you’ve encountered. For those with a passion for all things prehistoric, a visit to the nearby Moab Giants Museum & Dinosaur Park is a must. And for even more dino-themed adventures, check out our guide to dinosaur tracks in Moab and where to find them.
