How to Hike Dinosaur Valley State Park from Fort Worth

Dinosaur Valley State Park, located just 35 miles southwest of Fort Worth, Texas, is one of the most unique natural attractions in the state. Known for its exceptionally preserved dinosaur footprints—some of the best in North America—the park offers hikers an immersive journey through prehistoric landscapes, scenic river trails, and open prairie vistas. For residents and visitors of Fort Worth seeking a meaningful outdoor escape that blends education, adventure, and tranquility, hiking Dinosaur Valley State Park is an unparalleled experience. Unlike typical urban parks, this destination delivers tangible connections to Earth’s ancient past, making it not just a recreational outing, but a geological pilgrimage. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first-time trail explorer, understanding how to plan, prepare, and navigate this park from Fort Worth ensures a safe, rewarding, and memorable day. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to maximize your visit, from departure to return, with expert insights, practical tools, and real-world examples to help you succeed.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Plan Your Trip Timing

Timing is critical when hiking Dinosaur Valley State Park. The park is open year-round, but the best months to visit are March through May and September through November. During these periods, temperatures range from 60°F to 80°F, ideal for walking on exposed limestone slabs where the dinosaur tracks are located. Summer months (June–August) can exceed 100°F with high humidity, making the trail physically taxing and potentially dangerous without proper preparation. Winter visits (December–February) are cooler but can be wet and slippery, especially near the Paluxy River.

Arrive early. The park opens at 8:00 a.m. daily, and parking fills quickly on weekends. By arriving before 8:30 a.m., you’ll avoid crowds, secure the best parking spots near the trailhead, and enjoy the soft morning light that enhances visibility of the fossilized footprints. Early mornings also offer the calmest river conditions and fewer insects.

2. Prepare Your Vehicle and Route from Fort Worth

From downtown Fort Worth, take I-35S south for approximately 20 miles. Exit at TX-171 (exit 46), then turn right onto TX-171 and continue for about 10 miles. Turn left onto FM 1657 and follow it for 3 miles until you reach the park entrance. The total drive is roughly 40 minutes, depending on traffic.

Ensure your vehicle is in good condition. While the road to the park is paved, the final stretch includes a narrow, winding section with limited cell service. Carry a full tank of gas, and keep your phone charged with offline maps loaded. Google Maps and AllTrails both offer downloadable offline maps of the park and surrounding areas. Avoid driving rental cars with low clearance—some gravel access roads near the river can be uneven.

3. Purchase and Validate Your Park Pass

Day-use entry to Dinosaur Valley State Park costs $7 per adult. Children 12 and under enter free. Payment can be made via cash or card at the entrance station. If you plan to visit multiple state parks within the year, consider purchasing an annual Texas State Parks Pass for $70. It pays for itself after just 10 visits and grants access to all 95+ state parks in Texas.

Upon arrival, stop at the visitor center to pick up a free trail map and check for any trail closures or wildlife advisories. Rangers often provide updates on river conditions, especially after heavy rains, which can temporarily close the main trail near the water.

4. Begin at the Main Trailhead

The primary hiking trail starts at the Dinosaur Trackway Trailhead, located just past the visitor center. This 1.8-mile loop trail is the most popular route and leads directly to the fossilized dinosaur tracks. The trail is well-marked with wooden signs and painted blazes. The first 0.3 miles are a gentle, paved path suitable for strollers and wheelchairs, leading to the riverbank overlook.

At the overlook, you’ll see the Paluxy River flowing beneath you. This is where the magic begins. Descend the stone steps to the riverbed—this section is steep and uneven, so wear sturdy footwear with grip. Once on the riverbed, follow the marked path along the limestone slabs. The dinosaur tracks are visible in the exposed rock, preserved for over 110 million years.

5. Navigate the Dinosaur Trackway

The main attraction is the 1.2-mile stretch of the Paluxy Riverbed where theropod (carnivorous) and sauropod (herbivorous) tracks are clearly visible. Look for three-toed prints—these belong to Acrocanthosaurus, a predator that roamed the area during the Early Cretaceous period. The larger, rounded prints with claw marks are from sauropods like Sauroposeidon, some of the tallest dinosaurs ever known.

Use the interpretive signs placed along the trail to identify track types, sizes, and what they reveal about dinosaur behavior. For example, parallel tracks indicate herding behavior, while overlapping prints suggest one dinosaur followed another. Some prints are over 3 feet long. Take your time—many visitors rush past without noticing subtle details like drag marks or tail impressions.

Stay on the designated path. Walking on the tracks damages the fossil record. The limestone is soft and easily eroded by foot traffic. Rangers monitor the area, and fines may be issued for off-trail walking or touching the prints with tools or hands.

6. Explore the River and Surrounding Trails

After viewing the main trackway, you can extend your hike by continuing upstream along the river. The trail becomes less defined beyond the main loop, but experienced hikers often follow the riverbank for another 0.5 miles to a quieter section with additional, less-visited tracks. Be cautious of slippery rocks and sudden drop-offs.

For those seeking a longer hike, the 4.2-mile River Trail loops back through the prairie and offers panoramic views of the valley. This trail is more rugged and shaded, with native grasses, live oaks, and occasional wildlife sightings—including white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and red-tailed hawks. Allow 2–3 hours for this extension.

7. Return and Departure

When returning to the trailhead, retrace your steps carefully. The riverbed descent is more challenging on the way up, especially if you’re carrying water or a backpack. Take breaks as needed. Once back at the visitor center, consider visiting the small but excellent exhibit hall featuring replica dinosaur bones, fossil excavation tools, and interactive displays about paleontology in Texas.

Before leaving, refill your water bottles at the station’s drinking fountain. Pack out all trash—including food wrappers and plastic bottles. The park is part of a protected ecosystem, and litter disrupts both wildlife and geological integrity.

Best Practices

Wear the Right Footwear

The riverbed trail is not a typical hiking path. It’s composed of wet, smooth limestone slabs that become extremely slippery when damp. Hiking boots with aggressive tread are essential. Avoid sandals, flip-flops, or sneakers with smooth soles. Many visitors have suffered falls due to inadequate footwear. Waterproof boots are ideal, as you’ll likely step into shallow water or mud patches during the hike.

Hydration and Sun Protection

Even on cool days, the Texas sun is intense. Carry at least 2 liters of water per person. Electrolyte tablets or sports drinks help prevent cramping. Use broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+), wear a wide-brimmed hat, and consider UV-blocking sunglasses. The limestone reflects sunlight, increasing UV exposure. Shade is minimal along the riverbed, so plan accordingly.

Bring a Camera and Field Guide

While photography is allowed, tripods are not permitted on the riverbed to prevent damage to the rock. A smartphone with a good camera works well, but consider bringing a compact point-and-shoot for better detail. Use a macro mode or zoom lens to capture the texture of the tracks. A field guide like “Dinosaurs of Texas” by Louis Jacobs or the park’s official brochure can help you identify tracks and understand their significance.

Respect the Fossils and Wildlife

Dinosaur Valley is a scientific treasure. Never attempt to chip, paint, or mark the tracks. Do not use chalk, tape, or rubbings—these methods cause irreversible damage. If you find what appears to be a new fossil, take a photo and report it to a ranger. Do not feed or approach wildlife. Even seemingly harmless animals like raccoons or snakes can be dangerous if provoked.

Leave No Trace Principles

Adhere strictly to Leave No Trace ethics:

• Plan ahead and prepare
• Travel and camp on durable surfaces
• Dispose of waste properly
• Leave what you find
• Minimize campfire impacts
• Respect wildlife
• Be considerate of other visitors

These aren’t just suggestions—they’re critical to preserving the park for future generations.

Check Weather and River Conditions

Flash flooding is a real risk in the Paluxy River basin. Even if it hasn’t rained at the park, upstream storms can cause sudden surges. Before you leave Fort Worth, check the National Weather Service forecast for Somervell County. Avoid hiking if thunderstorms are predicted within 24 hours. After rain, wait at least 48 hours before entering the riverbed. Signs of rising water include murky water, debris caught in vegetation, and unusually fast currents.

Bring a First Aid Kit

Minor injuries are common—scrapes from rocks, insect bites, or blisters from new boots. Pack a compact kit with adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, pain relievers, and any personal medications. A small emergency blanket and whistle can be lifesaving if you become separated from your group.

Go with a Buddy

While the park is safe, hiking alone increases risk. Always inform someone outside your group of your planned route and return time. Cell service is spotty in the park—only Verizon and AT&T offer limited coverage near the visitor center. Use a personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite messenger if you plan to hike beyond the main trail.

Tools and Resources

Essential Apps

Technology can enhance your experience without compromising the natural setting:

• AllTrails – Download the Dinosaur Valley State Park trail map offline. User reviews often include recent conditions and photo updates.
• Google Earth – Use satellite imagery to preview the trail layout and riverbed topography before you leave home.
• iNaturalist – Identify plants, insects, and birds you encounter. Upload sightings to contribute to citizen science efforts.
• Weather Underground – Get hyperlocal forecasts for Glen Rose, TX, which is nearest to the park.
• Texas State Parks App – Official app with real-time alerts, trail closures, and park events.

Printed Resources

While digital tools are helpful, printed materials remain vital:

• Dinosaur Valley State Park Official Map – Available at the visitor center. Includes trail distances, track locations, and safety zones.
• “Dinosaur Tracks of Texas” by Roland T. Bird – A classic field guide by the paleontologist who first documented the tracks in the 1930s.
• USGS Topographic Map (Glen Rose 7.5’ Quadrangle) – Useful for understanding elevation changes and geologic formations.

Recommended Gear Checklist

Before leaving Fort Worth, verify you have:

• Sturdy hiking boots with non-slip soles
• At least 2 liters of water per person
• High-SPF sunscreen and UV-protective clothing
• Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
• Compact first aid kit
• Snacks (trail mix, energy bars)
• Camera or smartphone with zoom capability
• Binoculars (for birdwatching and distant views)
• Reusable water bottle and collapsible cup
• Lightweight rain jacket (even if forecast is clear)
• Portable phone charger (power bank)
• Offline maps downloaded
• Trash bag (pack out everything)

Online Learning Resources

Deepen your understanding before you go:

• Texas Historical Commission – Dinosaur Valley Exhibit – Online archive of excavation photos and historical context.
• Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History – Dinosaur Tracks – Free educational videos on track formation and preservation.
• YouTube: “Dinosaur Valley State Park: A Hiker’s Guide” – Real-time footage of the trail, including river crossings and track identification.
• Reddit: r/TexasHiking – Active community sharing recent trail conditions and tips from local hikers.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Fort Worth Family Day Trip

The Rodriguez family from North Fort Worth visited Dinosaur Valley on a Saturday in April. They left home at 6:30 a.m., arriving at the park by 7:15 a.m. They purchased their passes, picked up the map, and started hiking by 8:00 a.m. The children (ages 7 and 10) were fascinated by the tracks and used the park’s free activity sheet to identify prints. They brought a picnic lunch and ate under the shade of a live oak near the trailhead. The parents used the iNaturalist app to log 12 bird species, including a rare indigo bunting. They returned to Fort Worth by 4:00 p.m., exhausted but exhilarated. “It was the most educational and peaceful day we’ve had in years,” said Maria Rodriguez. “The kids still talk about the dinosaur feet.”

Example 2: The Solo Hiker’s Deep Dive

James Chen, a geology graduate student from the University of Texas at Arlington, hiked Dinosaur Valley alone on a weekday in October. He spent the entire day exploring beyond the main trackway, mapping additional prints using a GPS app and sketchbook. He noticed a series of small, parallel tracks that matched descriptions of ornithopod dinosaurs—rare in this area. He documented them with photos and sent his findings to the park’s paleontology coordinator. Two months later, he received an email from the Texas Natural History Museum inviting him to participate in a volunteer survey. “I went for the hike,” James said. “I left with a research opportunity.”

Example 3: The Photography Expedition

Two professional photographers from Dallas planned a sunrise shoot at Dinosaur Valley in November. They arrived at 6:00 a.m., set up tripods at the overlook, and waited for golden hour. The mist rising off the river created an ethereal atmosphere. They captured over 500 images, focusing on light patterns on the limestone and the contrast between modern hikers and ancient tracks. One of their photos, “Echoes of the Cretaceous,” was featured in Texas Monthly’s “Best of Texas Nature” issue. “The park isn’t just a trail,” said lead photographer Elena Ruiz. “It’s a canvas of time.”

Example 4: The Rainy Day Surprise

A group of four friends from Grapevine visited in late May after a heavy overnight storm. They were warned by rangers not to enter the riverbed, but decided to hike the upper River Trail instead. What they didn’t expect was to find newly exposed tracks—washed clean by runoff. The water had revealed previously hidden prints near a bend in the river. They photographed the discovery and reported it. Rangers later confirmed it was a new sauropod trackway, possibly the largest found in a decade. “We came for a walk,” said one hiker. “We left part of history.”

FAQs

Is Dinosaur Valley State Park suitable for children?

Absolutely. The paved section of the trail and the visual nature of the dinosaur tracks make it ideal for kids. The park offers a free junior paleontologist activity sheet at the visitor center, which turns the hike into a scavenger hunt. Children under 12 enter free, and many families report it as one of their most memorable educational outings.

Can I bring my dog?

Dogs are permitted on the main trail but must be leashed at all times. They are not allowed on the riverbed or in the river to protect the fossil record and wildlife. Clean up after your pet immediately. Some visitors report that dogs become overly excited near the tracks, so keep them close.

Are there restrooms and water fountains?

Yes. Restrooms are located at the visitor center and near the trailhead. Drinking water fountains are available at both locations. There are no facilities along the riverbed, so plan accordingly.

Can I camp at Dinosaur Valley State Park?

No. Dinosaur Valley State Park is a day-use only facility. There are no overnight camping sites. However, nearby options include Lake Pat Cleburne State Park (15 miles away) and private campgrounds in Glen Rose.

How long does the hike take?

The main Dinosaur Trackway loop is 1.8 miles and takes 1–1.5 hours at a leisurely pace. If you extend to the River Trail (4.2 miles total), allow 3–4 hours. Add extra time for photography, reading signs, and resting.

Are the dinosaur tracks real?

Yes. The tracks are genuine fossilized footprints from the Early Cretaceous period, approximately 113 million years old. They were discovered in the 1930s by paleontologist Roland T. Bird and have been studied by scientists ever since.

Is the trail accessible for people with mobility issues?

The first 0.3 miles of the trail are paved and ADA-compliant, with an accessible overlook. Beyond that, the riverbed trail is uneven, rocky, and requires stepping over stones and down stairs. Wheelchairs and mobility scooters cannot safely navigate the trackway. However, the park offers a virtual tour and tactile models at the visitor center for those unable to walk the trail.

What should I do if I find what looks like a new fossil?

Do not touch or remove it. Take a photo, note the location with GPS, and report it to a park ranger immediately. Unauthorized collection of fossils on state land is illegal and punishable by fines.

Is there a fee to park?

Yes. The $7 day-use fee includes parking. There is no separate parking charge.

Can I swim in the Paluxy River?

Swimming is not permitted in the Paluxy River within the park boundaries. The riverbed is protected for its scientific value, and the water flow can be unpredictable. There are designated swimming areas at nearby lakes, but not here.

Conclusion

Hiking Dinosaur Valley State Park from Fort Worth is more than a walk in the woods—it’s a journey through time. Standing on the same limestone that held the footsteps of dinosaurs over a hundred million years ago is a humbling, awe-inspiring experience that few places on Earth can offer. With careful planning, the right gear, and respectful awareness, this hike becomes not just an outing, but a meaningful connection to our planet’s deep history.

From the moment you leave Fort Worth’s urban sprawl to the quiet awe of standing beside a 110-million-year-old track, every step of this journey is enriched by preparation and mindfulness. Whether you’re a parent sharing wonder with your children, a student uncovering scientific truths, or a photographer capturing the beauty of ancient earth, Dinosaur Valley delivers an experience that lingers long after you return home.

Remember: the tracks are fragile. The river is powerful. The past is priceless. By following the steps, best practices, and ethical guidelines outlined here, you ensure that future generations will also have the chance to walk where dinosaurs walked. So lace up your boots, pack your water, and head southwest—your prehistoric adventure awaits.