FAQs
Answering Your Questions
Is it free to walk Dinosaur Ridge or is there a charge?
Walking/bicycling is free and available from one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset every day.
Please note, our parking lot and Visitor Center close at 4 p.m. in the winter and 5 p.m. in the summer.
Downloading an audio tour to your phone for $8 is another option to go with your walk. QR codes are posted on kiosks on both sides of the paved trail.
How long does it take to walk Dinosaur Ridge?
Do you offer guided walking tours?
Yes, on weekends with reservations. See dates/times on our Public Tours page.
How much does a guided bus tour cost?
How long does a bus tour take?
How do I get tickets for a guided bus tour?
Tickets can be purchased in the Gift Shop or in advance by calling 303-697-3466.
May I reserve bus tour tickets for today?
Same-day tours are always available in-person. You may reserve tickets over the phone as well except between the last Monday in May (Memorial Day) through the first Monday in September (Labor Day).
How often do guided bus tours run?
Depending on weather conditions, bus tours run approx. every 20 to 30 minutes. In the winter, they run once an hour.
Do I need to make a reservation to take a guided bus tour?
We recommend groups of 6 or more make advanced reservations, otherwise tours are first-come-first-served.
Do you provide EBT/WIC/SNAP discounts on guided bus tours?
Can I drive my vehicle across Dinosaur Ridge?
May we rent an entire bus for a private guided tour today?
Between Memorial Day and Labor Day (last Monday in May to first Monday in September) private tours may be reserved one to 14 days in advance. During winter season, same-day private bus tours are available.
What is the Morrison Dino Pass?
This is a discounted ticket that gives you access to both a Dinosaur Ridge guided bus tour and a guided tour inside the nearby Morrison Natural History Museum.
The pass is good for 10 days and costs $34 for adults and $22 for children ages 11 and under. Ages 2 and under are free.
What is the difference between the Main Visitor Center and the Martin G. Lockley Discovery Center?
The Main Visitor Center is where:
- guided tours depart
- you can explore an exhibit hall and gift shop
- children can enjoy free outdoor dig areas
- you can sit at shaded picnic tables
The Martin G. Lockley Discovery Center is a small event center within Entrance 1 to Red Rocks Park that is not regularly open to the public.
Are dogs allowed at Dinosaur Ridge?
Yes, as long as they are kept on leash, dogs can be in the outdoor areas.
Only official service dogs are allowed on buses or inside buildings.
Please keep in mind the pavement on Dinosaur Ridge can be very hot on dogs’ paws and there is no shade or water on the paved trail.
Is there an entry fee at the Main Visitor Center?
No, parking is free and the gift shop is free to explore. Entry to the Exhibit Hall is included in the cost of a guided bus tour, or for $4 as a standalone experience.
Are there special discount days at Dinosaur Ridge?
Yes, as a member of the Scientific Cultural Facilities District (SCFD) we offer 4 days per year when entry to the Exhibit Hall is free for all visitors, and guided bus tours are $4 off.
Check our Events page for any upcoming discount/free dates.