This remote Colorado hike leads to 134 preserved dinosaur footprints at 9,300 feet of elevation

In case you haven’t heard, the world’s largest continuous dinosaur trackway was opened to the public in 2024, also known as the West Gold Hill Dinosaur Tracksite in Colorado’s Ouray County.

The tracks were left by a long-neck sauropod dinosaur, estimated to be more than 150 million years old. Located at about 9,300 feet of elevation, the site features 134 consecutive prints that stretch about 106 yards long. The stretch of tracks is not only noteworthy for its length, but also serving as rare evidence of a sauropod’s sharp-turning behavior - it’s roughly a 270-degree turn.

The area that’s home to the track site was acquired by Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison (GMUG) national forests in April 2024. The acquisition involved three mining claim parcels that totaled about 27 acres, solidifying access to the tracksite for generations to come.

Prior to GMUG National Forest acquisition, the Jack Charles family had owned the parcels since 1945, visiting the area during summer months. While the pothole features were known to be on the property, it wasn’t until 2021 that the family realized they were prehistoric dinosaur tracks.

“The tracks, which often held water, were a favorite resting spot for their family dogs,” read a press release about the acquisition. “The family approached the Forest Service in 2022 about the agency’s interest in acquiring the land for public and research benefit due to the unique features along the trail.”

“The family is happy to offer this unique trackway to the U.S. Forest Service, ensuring that the land is protected and enjoyed by future generations,” said Anita McDonald, daughter of Jack Charles and a trustee of the estate.

Members of the public who want to view the site in-person can embark on a two-mile out-and-back trail (two miles each way) called the Silvershield trail. It’s steep and rugged and boasts an elevation gain of 1,600 feet. The trailhead and parking can be accessed via County Road 17. Note that parking is limited and on private property in a residential neighborhood - be respectful. The trail is only open to foot and horse traffic. It’s also worth noting that seasonal avalanche risk can exist in the area and when wet, icy, or snow-covered, the trail can become quite slick - save this one for summer and be mindful of the weather that’s rolling through.

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