Ruple Point Trail – Dinosaur National Monument

The Ruple Point Trail is named after the Ruple family, who lived a little below the trail in what is known as Island Park from 1883 to 1945. At 12.6 kilometres (7.8 mi), the trail is one of the longest in the Dinosaur National Monument and spoils you with first-class views.

The starting point of the Ruple Point Trail is the viewpoint over Island Park. From here, you’ll hike beside sagebrush, juniper trees and fragrant pines to Ruple Point. At this point, a breathtaking panorama opens up over the surrounding canyons and elevations. The individual layers of rock are clearly visible thanks to their different colours ranging from deep red to creamy white.

The landscape in the Dinosaur National Monument has been characterised by the Green River for thousands of years. This is also the case here, where the majestic river meanders through the canyons and carves ever deeper. Depending on the weather and time of year, it's a crystal-clear turquoise blue or – when it's particularly rich in fine rock material – a milky coffee brown colour. Take the same route from Ruple Point back to the car park.