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: WM65T5
Location: Utah, United States
Date Posted: 04/08/2009
Views: 40
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 n a very close poximity to each other. The rest of the area is exposed sandstone, and may have other tracks spread throughout. This orintation sign just points out where you can find tracks without searching. Stay on Willow Springs Road, and you'll arrive at the sign.
Surface of petrosomatoglyph: Rock
Impression of petrosomatoglyph: Natural
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Visit Instructions:
- Take pictures of the petrosomatoglyph.
- Tell about your visit at site.