Silvershield Trailhead to Dinosaur Trackway

About

The Silvershield Trail leads from Ouray to the West Gold Hill Dinosaur Trackway, recognized as the world's longest continuous dinosaur footprint trackway. The site features 134 consecutive footprints, measuring 106 yards long, preserved in sandstone layers. These tracks were made by a single long-necked sauropod dinosaur approximately 150 million years ago. The trail begins on Oak Street, accessible by driving westbound on 7th Avenue from downtown Ouray, then right onto Oak Street for nearly 1.2 miles to a sign for the Silver Shield Trail. The trailhead parking is located straight ahead. The hike is rated moderate with a total elevation gain of 1,660 feet, reaching a high point of 9,311 feet. The first mile is notably steep. Hikers gain views of the Ouray Valley and face some exposure to steep drop-offs. The trail is dog-friendly, though heat and conditions should be monitored. The trackway was sold to the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests in April 2024 to ensure permanent protection.