Willow Flats Road Dinosaur Tracks - Moab, Utah
Posted by: 
94RedRover
N 38° 42.049 W 109° 38.505
12S E 618109 N 4284452
Driving out of Arches National Park on Willow Springs Road, we happened across this orientation sign, highlighting the spectacular dinosaur tracks preserved in this area.
Waymark Code: WMNC7P
Location: Utah, United States
Date Posted: 02/11/2015
Views: 11
During the Jurassic Period, some 165 million years ago, the Moab area was part of a shallow tidal lands of an inland lake. The area's vegetation attracted many dinosaurs, and in turn, predators, including the two types whose tracks can be seen very well here: the Saurapod and the Therapod. Both were human-sized dinosaurs that walked upright.
Their tracks were preserved in the mud as it slowly turn to sandstone under the pressures of time. The Saurapod tracks were broader, with shorter toes, whereas the Therapod tracks showed more of a "claw-like" print, with longer toes and narrower heel.
This one slab of sandstone has these two very distinct prints in a very close proximity to each other. The rest of the area is exposed sandstone, and may have other tracks spread throughout. This orientation sign just points out where you can find tracks without searching. Stay on Willow Springs Road, and you'll arrive at the sign.
To reach the tracks, travel on Route 191 north of Moab and turn right onto Willow Springs Road until you see the sign, or head into Arches National Park, and turn onto Willow Flats Road from the area by Balanced Rock. The tracks can be found just west of the Park's boundaries, just feet from the designated road.
What kinds of fossils are found here:
Dinosaur Tracks
Admission Fee: no
Link for more information about this site: Not listed
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Visit Instructions:At least one good photo you have personally obtained and a brief story of your visit. Any additions or corrections to the information about the Waymark (for instance, have the hours open to the public changed) will be greatly appreciated.