Vernal

Vernal

Vernal   |  Marc Piscotty
  • Weather: Mostly Clear, 58F
Travel back in time to explore the wonders of the past in Vernal — also known as “Dinosaurland” — where you can delve into the world of dinosaurs and fossils. An ideal basecamp for visiting Dinosaur National Monument, Red Fleet State Park, Steinaker State Park or the Utah Field House of Natural History State Park Museum, the town is also a gateway to outdoor adventure, including hiking, mountain biking, rafting and more.

Dinosaur National Monument

Explore Vernal

Things to Do

Restaurants & Lodging

Vernal features an abundance of restaurants to appeal to any palate, with sit-down fare and grab-and-go options, inlcuding Mexican, Chinese and American food. The town is also home to a variety of popular chains, buffets, a brewery and Freddy's, which specializes in steakburgers and frozen custards.

After a long day of exploring, find a place to rest your head at one of the many lodging options in Vernal, including hotels, motels, lodges and charming bed and breakfasts. There are also plentiful camping options near Vernal, including private campgrounds as well as options in the Ashley National Forest, Bureau of Land Management areas, Dinosaur National Monument and state parks.

Weather

The Vernal area has a semiarid climate, with elevations of 4,700 to 9,000 feet in Dinosaur National Monument.

  • Summers are hot, with temperatures up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, and can bring thunderstorms and flash flooding.
  • Winters can plunge to 0 degrees Fahrenheit and can be snowy.
  • Spring and fall are more temperate seasons, though conditions can be quite variable.

Utah Weather

01

7 Days

Trekking Along the Dinosaur Diamond Highway

Utah’s Dinosaur Diamond Highway is the perfect guide to experience ancient history, millions of years in the making.

Dinosaurs, Hiking, Kid-Friendly, Scenic Drives/Road Trips

Highlights

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02

6 Days

Sandstone Spires & Swimming Holes

Walk the paths of dinosaurs and descend through 200 million years of geologic history in this six-day road trip from Vernal to Kodachrome Basin. It’s a kid-friendly desert drive in search of dino tracks, slot canyons and swimming,

Dinosaurs, Hiking, History and Heritage, Kid-Friendly, Scenic Drives/Road Trips

Highlights

See Itinerary

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