by Michele Kadison

Dinosaur Diamond Scenic and Historic Byway
Beginning and End Points: Grand Junction, Dinosaur
Points of interest: Grand Junction, Colorado National Monument, Fruita, Highline Lake State Park, Canyon Pintado, Donosaur, Dinosaur National Monument
Distance one way: 134 miles
Estimated driving time: 4 hours

Grand Junction
Otherwise known as the Grand Valley, this beautiful area is the center of Colorado wine country.  With many vineyards gracing the landscape, be sure to visit one of the local vintners who will be happy to invite you to a tasting.  There are plenty of RV sites in towns with full hookups.

Colorado National Monument
Grand Junction provides the southern entrance to Colorado National Monument where you will find Rim Rock Road, an ideal route to follow for amazing vistas during sunrise or sunset.  Be sure your RV fits through the rock tunnel along the way as it is only 16 feet high.

Fruita
Northwest of Grand Junction lies the town of Fruita, which is also the exit point of Colorado National Monument if you came in through the southern entranceway.  With many trails running throughout the backcountry areas, Fruita is a favorite with mountain bikers.  RVers can find a resting point in town if you’re in the mood for a stay.  And while you’re in the area, take a stop at the Colorado Welcome Center at Fruita.  Here you can find information on the area along with a knowledgeable staff who are ready to answer any question.  Be sure to pick up a free Official State Vacation Guide along with a state map.

Highline Lake State Park
There are many campsites here that are RV friendly, even if there is a lack of water and no electrical hookups.  There is, however a dump station.  With two lakes that more than make up for the missing amenities, you can take an afternoon to fish on Mack Mesa Lake with its abundance of rainbow trout.  Highline Lake is another great destination for an afternoon of speed boating, if that’s your preference.  If you’re traveling during the winter, make sure to bring your binoculars as migrating waterfowl are in abundance in this beautiful Colorado locale.

Canyon Pintado
Located in the Douglas Creek Valley, the Canyon Pintado is known for its sandstone walls that hold more than 200 sections of artwork etched into their surfaces.  Fifty of these sections have been interpreted, with 18 of the panels providing the best illustration of how the inhabitants lived during Puebloan times.  Drive along Highway 139 between Rangely and Fruita to arrive at the canyon where you will want to spend some time soaking in the history.

Dinosaur
Fossil fields rich with treasure have made this area famous with those who are interested in relics from the great past.  Here you will find dinosaur sculptures and a town that is rife with dinosaur references.  Take a moment to visit the Welcome Center at Dinosaur where you can obtain up-to-date information on all things prehistoric.

Dinosaur National Monument
Within the park you will find the majestic Yampa and Green rivers along with the sandstone cliffs that border them.  Geology hunts, hiking, fishing, and rafting are all popular activities and a driving tour is essential for appreciating the ancient rock art and fossils that abound.  Though there are no hookups for electricity or water, there are many campgrounds that are otherwise ideal for RV travelers.

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