Harpers Corner Trail

The Harpers Corner overlook is one of the best views in Dinosaur National Monument. It is a short, easy hike, but there is a long drive to get there. In this case the drive is at least as compelling a destination as the hike, but the trail to the overlook is not to be missed. Starting at the Colorado entrance to the national monument just east of the town of Dinosaur, the Harpers Corner Road is one of the most scenic 31 miles of road in the Southwest. There are several overlooks and a few picnic areas that provide a grand view of the Yampa River and the Yampa Bench, the massive uplift of earth that follows the only un-dammed tributary of the Colorado River. Two of the best views are from the Canyon Overlook and the Iron Springs Bench Overlook. The trail from the parking area at the end of the road is fairly flat and short, but it offers magnificent views of Echo Park and the confluence of the Yampa and Green to the east. The trail follows the ridge and offers views of Whirlpool Canyon to the west as well, but the best is saved for last as the trail comes out on the point and the entire vista comes into sight. One of the finest views in the Southwest is spread across the 270-degree panorama.