Step into a world where time stands still, and prehistoric creatures roam the earth – welcome to the Dinosaur Ridge Discovery Center. This fascinating venue isn’t your typical museum, it’s a journey millions of years back in time, right at the heart of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains.
Renowned for its rich paleontological treasures, Dinosaur Ridge is a must-visit for history buffs and dinosaur enthusiasts alike. With every step, you’re treading on ancient grounds, unraveling the secrets of a world long gone. Stay tuned as we delve deeper into what makes this discovery center a gem in the field of paleontology.
Dinosaur Ridge Discovery Center
In this section, we’ll delve deeper into exploring the enchanting Dinosaur Ridge Discovery Center. We’ll unpack the intriguing history tied to it, highlight some of the sightseeing spots, and give you a more comprehensive understanding of this remarkable natural and history-filled gem tucked away in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains.
Unearthing the past reveals that the area now known as Dinosaur Ridge was once part of a floodplain. Fossils found and examined at the site indicate a rich ecosystem that existed around 150 million years ago during the Late Jurassic period.
The tale of Dinosaur Ridge Discovery Center begins in 1877 when Arthur Lakes, a school teacher and amateur geologist, discovered humongous dinosaur bones. These very finds resulted in the birth of Dinosaur Ridge and propelled the area into the limelight of paleontological research.
In 1989, all 314 acres of the Dinosaur Ridge area were designated as the Morrison Fossil Area National Natural Landmark. This recognition attests to the area’s significance in scientific and natural values.
What to See at Dinosaur Ridge Discovery Center
Within Dinosaur Ridge, visitors find a plethora of exhibits encapsulating prehistoric life. First, there are the Dinosaur Tracks, a site boasting over 300 preserved dinosaur footprints. This site gives visitors a chance to witness an ancient Jurassic scene frozen in time.
Next, make a stop at the Dinosaur Bone Quarry. Here, visitors can see where the world-famous Stegosaurus and Apatosaurus were discovered. They’ll find real, not replica, fossils protruding from the rocks, a testament to the area’s rich paleontological history.
On-site, visitors can also experience a range of educational programs, hands-on exhibits, and guided tours. All these elements combine to make the Dinosaur Ridge Discovery Center an epicenter of paleontological exploration and a must-visit destination for all ages.
Educational Programs Offered
The Dinosaur Ridge Discovery Center prides itself in providing wide range of educational programs, specifically designed to impart knowledge to all age groups about the fascinating world of dinosaurs and paleontology.
Education takes precedence in the mission of the Dinosaur Ridge Discovery Center. For schools and educators, the center devises interactive learning programs tailored to the specific needs of K-12 education standards. The programs include school field trips, wherein students delve deep into the mysteries of paleontology by exploring the Dinosaur Tracks site and the Dinosaur Bone Quarry. Scoping various exhibits, students get a hands-on experience, interpreting rock layers, and investigating ancient footprints. In addition to these immersive field trips, the center also conducts in-school visits, bringing specimens and activities right into the classrooms, offering students an enriching educational experience in their learning environment.
Public Tours and Workshops
Catering not only to educational institutions, the Dinosaur Ridge Discovery Center extends its realm of learning to the wider public. Regular guided tours offer individuals and families an insightful peek into the prehistoric world, traversing exciting paths like the Dinosaur Tracks site and The Bone Quarry.
The Center conducts a series of public workshops, shedding light on a variety of topics related to dinosaurs and their existence. These workshops typically comprise engaging hands-on activities and exhibits that captivate visitors of all ages. Participants can closely observe fossils, learn about different species of dinosaurs, and understand the geological phenomena that preserved these magnificent creatures over millions of years.
In essence, the Dinosaur Ridge Discovery Center’s educational programs aim to encourage an in-depth understanding of Earth’s history, igniting a passion for learning amongst students, educators and the wider public.