Dry Mesa Dinosaur Quarry

Top choice in Southwest Colorado

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Within the borders of the Uncompahgre National Forest, this bone-rich area yielded one of the most diverse Jurassic vertebrate collections in the world. Over a dozen different dinosaurs have been unearthed here since the first dig in 1971, including the terrifying Torvosaurus and various birds, crocodiles and mammals.

The quarry is located 26 miles southwest of Delta on the Uncompahgre Plateau. A short hike will also bring you to a Ute rock-art site. For visitor information, inquire at the USFS forest station.

Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

  • Moonlight on Indian Tepee at Ute Indian Museum, Montrose, Colorado.

    Ute Indian Museum

    28.98 MILES

    One of the few American museums dedicated to one tribe. The Ute are the traditional people of western Colorado. The museum is situated on a homestead that…

  • Colterris Winery at the Overlook

    Colterris Winery at the Overlook

    26.4 MILES

    Sold in Colorado's finest restaurants, Colterris sits in a league of its own – as a sip of its earthy, balanced Cabernet Sauvignon confirms. The inviting…

  • Suncrest Orchard, Alpacas and Fiber Mill

    Suncrest Orchard, Alpacas and Fiber Mill

    25.99 MILES

    If cute were currency, Mike and Cindy McDermott would be sitting on a gold mine with their combination Alpaca and lavender farm. While Mike patiently…

  • Museum of the Mountain West

    Museum of the Mountain West

    29.07 MILES

    On display are a staggering number of pieces from the 1880s to the 1930s. There’s a re-created Old West town replete with storefronts, a saloon, drugstore…

  • Museum of Western Colorado

    Museum of Western Colorado

    29.02 MILES

    The most impressive of Grand Junction’s sites, this well-arranged museum is the largest in the region, featuring impressive multidisciplinary displays on…

  • High Country Orchards

    High Country Orchards

    26.4 MILES

    While campaigning for the 2008 presidential election, the Obamas picked up a box of peaches at this family-operated outfit. They grow fruit so succulent…

  • Maison La Belle Vie Winery

    Maison La Belle Vie Winery

    27.64 MILES

    Owner John Barbier is a gregarious oenophile of the most lovable sort and his 'House of Beautiful Life' produces some of the area's finest Cab, Syrah and…

  • Sage Creations Organic Farm

    Sage Creations Organic Farm

    25.82 MILES

    Tour this organic farm and pick your own lavender from its gorgeous fields. The lavender eye pillows make great gifts. It also sells bags of juicy…

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