Triceratops Trail

Triceratops Trail at the Parfet Prehistoric Preserve

Welcome

This half-mile hiking trail takes you to a time 68 million years ago (mya). You may use this guide with the information on a series of interpretive signs along the route. This guide and the signs will assist you in interpreting the evidence (footprints, traces, and impressions) left by the dinosaurs, birds, mammals, insects, and plants from this very different, very swampy, habitat. At the third stop along this trail (the Geologic Overlook) you can view an interpretation of how the landscape of this area has evolved - from the Age of Dinosaurs (Mesozoic Era) to the present day Front Range you see before you.

All of the fossils that you can see at this site are called "trace fossils". Trace fossils are footprints, impressions and natural casts, not "body fossils" such as bones, teeth, and claws. Trace fossils left by living organisms are very

useful in reconstructing the prehistoric world that these plants and animals lived in. Today, impressive vistas in and around the the Fossil Trace Golf Club reflect a combination of natural Rocky Mountain scenery, reclaimed historic clay mines, and a world-class, 18-hole golf course.

Protecting the trail...and yourself.

Triceratops Trail is a protected area designed for your enjoyment and education. Rocks, fossils, plants, artifacts, and other resources are protected by law and should not be damaged or removed. Please keep Triceratops Trail beautiful for our enjoyment today and for the future generations that will visit here tomorrow. Be aware of the wild animals that live on and around the trail - keep your distance and do not disturb them.

The trail covers rough terrain and moderate to steep slopes. The trail ends at the Prehistoric Plants (Stop 5) and we ask that return by retracing your steps back to the entrance

For your own safety, please do not stray onto the golf course (cart trail marked in red on the map. Also, please do not climb on the rock walls or remove materials.