The best walks and hikes around Jensen
4.6
(10)
170
hikers
6
hikes
Hiking around Jensen, Utah, offers routes primarily within the desert landscape of Dinosaur National Monument. The region is characterized by its unique geology, including tilted sedimentary rock layers and deep canyons. Most trails explore the area's rich fossil history and provide expansive views across the rugged terrain.
Best hiking trails around Jensen
- The most popular hiking route is Fossil Discovery Trail – Dinosaur National Monument, a 2.3 mile (3.8 km) trail that takes around 1 hour to complete. This…
Last updated: June 25, 2026
18.9km
05:01
230m
130m
Hike the difficult 11.7-mile Dinosaur National Monument Scenic Drive, gaining 754 feet in 5 hours through rugged canyons and geological form
4.8
(4)
81
hikers
3.77km
01:02
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4.0
(3)
44
hikers
5.11km
01:24
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
26
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
At the Swelter Shelter site, you can explore a large number of different petroglyphs (carvings) and pictograms (paintings) on the surrounding rock walls. The hike to the site is just a 400 feet roundtrip from Cub Creek Road. The rock art was created by the ancestral indigenous people of the region, but the Swelter Shelter has been used by older cultures dating to as early as 7000 BCE.
4
0
The Desert Voices Trail is a 1.7-mile roundtrip that takes you into the backcountry of Dinosaur National Monument. It provides you with stunning views of Split Mountain and geological features. Along the way, you will find signs with information about the geology and ecology of the area. If you like, you can extend your hike by taking the connector trail to the Sound of Silence Trail.
4
0
On the higher section of the Sound of Silence Trail, you can enjoy a stunning view of Split Mountain and an area known as the Racetrack. The Racetrack was formed by the Triassic period Chinle and Moenkopi Formations.
3
0
The Sound of Silence Trail is a 3.2-mile roundtrip with about 400 feet elevation change. It winds through an intermittent creek bed, a so-called wash, and shows you the diverse geology with rock layers, desert badlands and steep slickrock. You will be treated with excellent views of Split Mountain and an area called the Racetrack. Some sections of the trail can be difficult to navigate. If you like to extend your hike, take the short connector trail to combine this trail with the Desert Voices loop trail.
2
0
Just off the road, you will enjoy a breathtaking view over majestic Split Mountain and the winding Green River just below it. You can also see the campground located at the banks of the Green River.
3
0
The Fossil Discovery Trail starts at the Quarry Exhibit and ends down at the Quarry Visitor Center. Over 1.2 miles (one way) it takes you to different formations that are exposed in rock layers where you can find dinosaur bones and other fossils from the Jurassic to Cretaceous era. To get to this trailhead, you can take the shuttle from the Visitor Center instead of hiking both directions.
2
0
The Quarry Exhibit is without a question THE place to visit when you are in Dinosaur National Monument. Not only will you find a lot of interesting information, you will also discover a huge rock wall containing approximately 1,500 dinosaur bones! There are different species from the Late Jurassic period like Allosaurus, Stegosaurus and Diplodocus. You are even allowed to touch some of the real 150 million year old dinosaur bones. To get to the Quarry Exhibit, you can either take the shuttle from the Visitor Center that leaves on a regular basis or hike the Fossil Discovery Trail. I recommend taking the shuttle up and hiking down the trail.
4
0
The Stump Formation along the Fossil Discovery Trail is known for its petrified clams. This formation is about 161 to 156 million years old! At this time, the area was part of a large inland sea. Look closer at the large rocks to find fossils like belemnites, snails, ammonites, and even bones of ichthyosaurs.
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in the Jensen area?
Yes, the region offers several shorter, less strenuous trails perfect for families. A great option is the Swelter Shelter Trail, a very short walk to see ancient petroglyphs. The Hog Canyon and Box Canyon trails within Dinosaur National Monument are also excellent choices for an easy outing with children.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails near Jensen?
Dogs are generally not permitted on hiking trails within Dinosaur National Monument to protect wildlife and preserve the natural environment. Leashed pets are allowed in developed areas like campgrounds and parking lots, but not on the trails. It's best to check the official park regulations before your visit.
What is the best time of year to go hiking around Jensen?
The best times to hike in the Jensen area are spring (April-May) and fall (September-October). During these seasons, the temperatures are moderate and pleasant for hiking. Summers can be extremely hot, especially on exposed desert trails, while winters can bring snow and cold conditions.
Are there any circular or loop hikes available?
Yes, there are several loop trails. For a moderate challenge with great views, the Desert Voices Trail – Sound of Silence Trail loop is a fantastic choice. It takes you through varied rock layers and offers solitude and excellent views of Split Mountain.
What should I pack for a day hike in Jensen?
For a day hike, it's essential to bring plenty of water, as the desert climate is very dry. Also pack sun protection like a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Sturdy hiking shoes are recommended for the rocky terrain. Depending on the season, you may need layers of clothing. Always carry snacks and a map of the area.
Are there any hikes that feature waterfalls?
The landscape around Jensen is primarily a high desert environment, so waterfalls are not a common feature on the trails. The hikes here are better known for their unique geology, fossil sites, and expansive canyon views.
Where can I see dinosaur fossils while hiking?
The Fossil Discovery Trail is specifically designed for this. It connects the Quarry Visitor Center to the Quarry Exhibit Hall, where you can see over 1,500 dinosaur bones embedded in a rock wall. The trail itself passes through 80 million years of geologic history.
Are there fees to hike in Dinosaur National Monument?
Yes, Dinosaur National Monument requires an entrance fee for access to the park's roads, trails, and facilities, including the Quarry Exhibit Hall. You can find the most current fee information on the official National Park Service website.
What kind of scenery can I expect on the trails?
Hiking around Jensen offers dramatic desert landscapes. Expect to see stunning tilted rock layers, deep canyons carved by the Green and Yampa Rivers, and wide-open vistas of the Uinta Basin. The Sound of Silence Trail is particularly known for its quiet, immersive journey through these unique geological formations.
Where is the best place to park for hiking in the area?
Most trailheads within Dinosaur National Monument have designated parking areas. The Quarry Visitor Center and the Harpers Corner Scenic Drive are the main hubs with parking for popular trails. It's recommended to arrive early, especially during peak season, as lots can fill up.
Can I see ancient rock art on any of the hikes?
Yes, the area is rich with petroglyphs and pictographs left by the Fremont people. You can see some of these ancient carvings along the Cub Creek Road area, and the short Morrison Formation – Quarry Visitor Center loop provides access to areas where you can explore the region's human history as well as its geology.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Jensen?
The trails around Jensen are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the unique geological scenery, the opportunity to see real dinosaur fossils, and the sense of solitude on less-trafficked paths.
Most popular routes around Jensen
Most popular attractions around Jensen
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
