Are you fascinated by dinosaurs? Imagine walking where they once roamed. In southeastern Colorado, near La Junta, the Picketwire Canyon Trail in the Comanche National Grassland offers this incredible experience. Here, you can see and touch 150-million-year-old dinosaur tracks from the herbivorous Brontosaurus and the carnivorous Allosaurus.
Walking with the Dinosaurs
The Picketwire Canyon Trail, following the Purgatoire River, features the largest dinosaur track site in North America, with over 1,400 individual tracks. You can see pathways of Brontosaurus tracks, often found in groups for protection from predators like the Allosaurus. Informative signs along the trail provide fascinating details about these ancient giants and their behavior.
Brontosauruses could grow up to 70 feet long and weigh around 33 tons. Allosauruses were about 25 feet long, 16 feet tall, and weighed around 4 tons. The signs also indicate the safest spots to cross the river, which can be tricky due to strong currents.
The Hike
The trail is roughly 16.7 miles round trip with an 826-foot elevation gain. It’s a tough hike with no shade, so be sure to bring sunscreen and at least a gallon of water.
The hike begins with a 250-foot descent, which you’ll need to climb back up on your return. Plan for a full day and pack appropriately. Vault toilets are available at the trailhead, at the tracks, and at the old Rourke cattle ranch.
Tours, Petroglyphs, and More
While you can’t camp on this trail, biking and horseback riding are allowed (just not on the tracks). Wildlife sightings might include bobcats, antelope, bald eagles, quail, and rattlesnakes, so bring insect repellent. Photography is encouraged, but casting the tracks is prohibited to preserve them.
For a more detailed exploration, consider a guided tour by the U.S. Forest Service. These tours start in La Junta at 8 am, last until around 4 pm, and cost $20 for adults and $7.50 for kids over five (free for under-fives). The tour offers rich insights and points out the petroglyphs along the trail.
Historical Sites
During your hike, you’ll come across the ruins of the Dolores Mission and Cemetery, built by early Hispanic settlers in the 19th century. You’ll also see Rourke Ranch, established in 1871 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The tour shares the story of the Rourke family’s successful ranching business.
Conclusion
Hiking the Picketwire Canyon Trail is a unique chance to step back in time and explore Colorado’s rich history. Whether you’re a dinosaur enthusiast, a history buff, or just enjoy a challenging hike, this trail has something for everyone. Pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the Comanche National Grassland.