Behind the Rocks Dinosaur Tracks

By Dave Webb

Guidebook descriptions of the Behind the Rocks area mention dinosaur tracks, but give no hint about where to look for them. In fact, the descriptions are vague about everywhere in the area. It is a difficult place to explore because it is incredibly rugged. But that also makes it beautiful.

We wandered around there for a day last winter (Jan, 2006), enjoying a very nice escape from civilization. As we headed back toward the trail we noticed two very distinctive dinosaur tracks in the bottom of a wash, where the sandstone was flat.

We used the Hidden Canyon Trail to enter the area, then just wandered as best we could between the giant sandstone fins. The trailhead is located off US 191 just south of Moab. See my article on Behind the Rocks for more details.

From Hidden Canyon you hike through a pass to gain access to the Behind the Rocks area. We found the tracks as we headed back toward that pass. I marked these GPS coordinates, which should put you in or close to the wash. Then it is just a matter of looking at the sandstone slabs. Be aware the tracks may be covered by sand, depending on wind conditions.

It's a great hike but it is rugged and remote. Have fun there.

Dinosaur Track Coordinates
N 38 deg 32.509
W 109 deg 33.230