Fruita Paleo Loop Trailhead

About

The Fruita Paleo Loop Trailhead in Fruita, Colorado, is a moderate half-mile interpretive loop located at 4,508 feet elevation. The trail winds through high-desert terrain characterized by juniper, sagebrush, and rabbitbrush within the 360-acre Fruita Paleontological Area. The path is packed dirt, designed for foot traffic only, and features sweeping views of the Grand Valley and surrounding mesas. Hikers encounter interpretive panels and artwork that illustrate the Jurassic landscape from 150 million years ago. The site contains exposed Morrison badlands with a prolific record of Jurassic microvertebrates and bones from sauropods such as Apatosaurus and Camarasaurus. The loop connects to the historic Skinner Cabin, accessible via an adjacent trail. The trailhead provides a gravel lot for cars, trailers, and RVs, along with pit toilets. There is no potable water on site, so visitors must bring their own. Pets are allowed on leash. The trail is generally open year-round, with September through November offering mild weather suitable for hiking. The route takes approximately one to two hours to complete and is considered moderate in difficulty, with a wide, gradual initial section that accommodates wheelchairs and mobility devices. Cell service is generally available but may be intermittent.