The best walks and hikes in Moffat County

Yes, there are several options suitable for families. For a short, accessible walk with great views, consider the Harpers Corner Trail – Dinosaur National Monument. It's a 2.2-mile (3.6 km) roundtrip hike along a ridge that leads to a breathtaking overlook of the Green and Yampa Rivers.

Dogs are generally not permitted on trails within Dinosaur National Monument to protect wildlife and the park's natural and cultural resources. However, they are allowed on a leash in developed areas like campgrounds and along roads. For dog-friendly hiking, explore trails in other public lands outside the monument, such as those in the Elkhead Mountains, but always check local regulations before you go.

Spring and fall are the ideal seasons for hiking in Moffat County. The weather is pleasant, and the summer heat has not yet peaked or has already subsided. Summer can be very hot, especially in the exposed canyons of Dinosaur National Monument, so if you hike then, start early in the morning and carry plenty of water. Winter can bring snow and cold temperatures, making many trails inaccessible.

While the region is primarily a semi-arid, high-desert environment, you can find water features on certain trails. The Ely Creek Falls loop from Dinosaur is an easy 4.5-mile (7.2 km) hike that leads to a lovely waterfall within a canyon, offering a refreshing destination.

Moffat County is rich in wildlife. Depending on the area, you might spot mule deer, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, and elk. Browns Park National Wildlife Refuge is a fantastic place for birdwatching, with around 200 species present throughout the year. In the Sand Wash Basin, you might even see a herd of free-roaming wild horses. Always observe wildlife from a safe and respectful distance.

Dinosaur National Monument offers a variety of trails. For a short walk along the river, try the Gates of Lodore Trail – Dinosaur National Monument. For a longer, more remote experience, the Ruple Point Trail – Dinosaur National Monument offers a 7.8-mile (12.6 km) trek with stunning canyon views.

Yes, there are several loop trails. The Elkhead Reservoir State Park Loop — Elkhead Mountains, CO is a moderate 6.8-mile (11 km) circuit around the reservoir. For a much shorter and easier option, the Freeman Reservoir Loop — Elkhead Mountains, CO is a gentle 1-mile (1.7 km) walk.

Just a few miles from Craig, you can find the Loudy-Simpson Park, which offers easy, flat trails along the Yampa River. The Loudy-Simpson Recreation Area Loop is a pleasant 2.7-mile (4.4 km) walk perfect for a quick outing. Cedar Mountain Recreation Area is also nearby and offers more elevation and panoramic views.

The trails range from easy to moderate. There are 6 easy routes, such as flat riverside walks, and 4 moderate trails that typically involve more significant elevation gain or longer distances. An example of a moderate hike is the Black Mountain West Trail — Elkhead Mountains, CO, which climbs to a summit plateau.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the sense of solitude, the rugged beauty of the high-desert landscape, and the spectacular views found within Dinosaur National Monument and the Elkhead Mountains.

While most of the defined trails are day hikes, the vast public lands in Moffat County offer opportunities for multi-day backpacking trips for experienced hikers with good navigation skills. The remote canyons of Dinosaur National Monument and the expansive Elkhead Mountains provide a true backcountry experience. Always check with the relevant land management agency for permit requirements and regulations before planning an overnight trip.