The Moenkopi Dinosaur Tracks, also known as the Tuba City Dinosaur Tracks, is an incredible place to explore! This site deserves way more recognition than it gets. Marked by a weathered billboard at the roadside as you enter Tuba City, it’s a true hidden gem. I drove by the sign countless times without giving it much thought, but when I finally stopped, I was blown away. The sheer number of tracks here is astonishing! Unlike other sites where spotting a single track feels like a victory, this place greets you with tracks at every turn. Some even overlap, adding to the site’s unique charm and mystery.
The Moenkopi Dinosaur Track Site
Dinosaurs left the Tuba City tracks around 200 million years ago during the early Jurassic period. Paleontologists from Northern Arizona University have confirmed the site’s authenticity. Without skeletal remains, scientists can’t identify the exact dinosaur species behind these footprints, but they classify the tracks as “trace fossils,” based on shape and the type of rock in which they’re preserved. These details help estimate the fossils’ age, and researchers believe that carnivorous dinosaurs like Eubrontes, Grallator, Coelophysis kayentakatae, or Dilophosaurus wetherilli likely made these tracks.
Tips & Etiquette
The Moenkopi dinosaur tracks are located on the Navajo Reservation, so visitors need a Navajo guide to explore the site. There’s no set entrance fee, but it’s customary to tip your guide between $5 and $20 as a gesture of appreciation.
Upon arrival at the site, you’ll likely encounter several stands showcasing handmade crafts and jewelry. A Navajo resident will typically greet you and inquire if you’re interested in a tour. During the guided tour, your knowledgeable guide will provide insights into the area and highlight some of the most remarkable tracks. Once the guided portion concludes, you can explore the site at your own pace.
Directions to the Moenkopi Dinosaur Tracks
The Moenkopi dinosaur tracks are located in Tuba City, between Page and Flagstaff, AZ, along U.S. Highway 160.
Moenkopi Dinosaur Tracks
U.S. Hwy 160
Tuba City, AZ 86045
Famous Hikes in the Area
The South Rim of the Grand Canyon
The South Rim of the Grand Canyon is the iconic desert landscape dreams are made out of. This national park offers incredible views that can be located on short walks or long hikes. Seeing the Grand Canyon should be a must-do on everyone’s bucket list.
Horseshoe Bend
Horseshoe Bend near Page, Arizona, is a relatively short and easy hike offering spectacular views of the iconic horseshoe-shaped bend in the Colorado River. The trail is approximately 1.3 miles round trip and is considered to be moderate due to some sandy sections.
Lower Antelope Canyon
Antelope Canyon is a stunning slot canyon near Page, Arizona. The hike through Lower Antelope Canyon is relatively easy, primarily involving walking along the sandy canyon floor with occasional steps and ladders. The distance covered during the guided tour typically ranges from around 0.5 to 1 mile round trip.
Upper Antelope Canyon
Upper Antelope Canyon is a world-renowned slot canyon located near Page, Arizona. It is known for its mesmerizing light beams and sandstone walls. Hiking through Upper Antelope Canyon is relatively easy, mainly involving walking along the sandy canyon floor. The distance covered during a tour typically ranges from around 0.25 to 0.5 miles round trip.
Things to Do in Tuba City
1. Explore Navajo Interactive Museum
- This museum offers a deep dive into Navajo culture, history, and traditions. It’s a great place to learn about the Diné people, their way of life, and their perspective on the world.
2. Visit the Tuba City Trading Post
- A historic trading post where you can browse Native American crafts, jewelry, and rugs. It’s an ideal spot for picking up unique, handmade souvenirs that reflect the region’s heritage.
3. Code Talkers Museum
- Located inside the Tuba City Trading Post, this small exhibit honors the Navajo Code Talkers who played a pivotal role during World War II by using their language as a code that was never broken.
Keep the Moenkopi Dinosaur Tracks Awesome
Remember to respect nature and follow ethical practices when engaging in outdoor activities. Always leave a place better than you found it, and practice the principles of Leave No Trace. Enjoy your time exploring the tracks and trails in Tuba City!
