Environmental Factors

A view from high up of a river cutting through colorful, scenic rock formations.
For millions of years, rivers and geologic forces have worked in tandem to carve the unique landscape of Dinosaur National Monument.

NPS / Dan Johnson

Dinosaur National Monument has been shaped by natural forces for millennia. Geologic processes have moved and shaped the land, rivers carved canyons, and climatic changes have influenced the plant and animal life that can thrive here. The same forces that influenced the the creatures now fossilized in Dinosaur's rock layers are still at work today, in a time when human activity is also a major environmental factor.
 
A hiker stands with their back to the camera looking out over a landscape of multicolored rocks.
Climate Change

Climate change has shaped Dinosaur National Monument for millions of years. Today, human-caused climate change is having big impacts.

People watch a flaming sagebrush flat from a distance. The air is gray with smoke.
Wildland Fire

The Fire Management Program at Dinosaur manages wildfire and prescribed fire to maintain natural vegetation.

Last updated: January 19, 2025

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

4545 Hwy 40
Dinosaur, CO 81610

Phone:

435 781-7700

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