If you’re a fan of dinosaurs, paleontology, or just love exploring lesser-known gems in the American West, Jurassic National Monument near Elmo, Utah, belongs on your bucket list. This remote and rugged destination is home to the Cleveland-Lloyd Dinosaur Quarry—a site that holds the densest concentration of Jurassic-period dinosaur bones ever discovered.
The monument spans 2,453 acres and was officially designated in 2018 to preserve and protect this world-class paleontological site and its surrounding landscape.
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Dinosaurs Galore at Cleveland-Lloyd Dinosaur Quarry
Over 12,000 dinosaur bones—belonging to at least 74 individual dinosaurs—have been excavated from the quarry. Most of these remains are from Allosaurus, a massive Jurassic predator. In fact, roughly 75% of the bones unearthed here belong to carnivores, which continues to baffle paleontologists.
So what caused such a strange concentration of meat-eaters? Scientists speculate that the area may have served as a prehistoric predator trap, possibly linked to a watering hole or marshy terrain that ensnared large dinosaurs during the Jurassic period.
Exploration at the site began in 1929 by researchers from the University of Utah, and excavation work continues to this day—though whether or not you’ll catch a paleontologist in action depends on the day.
What to Expect When Visiting Jurassic National Monument
Lisa and I were excited to explore the quarry after watching videos showcasing the fossil digs and research. Sadly, when we arrived around noon, there weren’t any paleontologists working in the pits, which was a bit of a letdown. Still, the quarry itself and surrounding trails are impressive, and there’s plenty to see.
Things to Do:
- Visit the onsite museum, which features a complete Allosaurus skeleton and a Stegosaurus reconstruction.
- Walk the interpretive trails, where you can roam the same terrain dinosaurs once did.
- Explore nearby rock art sites, scenic overlooks, and fascinating geological formations.
Getting There: Location & Tips
Jurassic National Monument is tucked into the northern edge of the San Rafael Swell, a remote area with limited services. You won’t find gas stations, restaurants, or cell service nearby—so plan accordingly.
Travel Tips:
- Check the weather — the area is prone to flash floods, and the roads can quickly become impassable when wet. Avoid parking in washes or low-lying areas.
- Fuel up before you go — Elmo is the closest town, and even it is tiny.
- Bring a detailed map — GPS isn’t reliable out there.
- Wear appropriate footwear — hiking or trail shoes are a must.
Final Thoughts
While the quarry and surrounding landscape were fascinating to explore, I was hoping to see paleontologists actively working on digs—which didn’t happen during our visit. For a site that boasts the greatest concentration of Jurassic dinosaur bones ever found, it felt quieter than expected.
That said, the history, mystery, and scenery make it a worthwhile detour for any dinosaur enthusiast or geology buff traveling through Utah.
What interesting places can you recommend?
We’re always on the lookout for unique, out-of-the-way experiences to add to our list.
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