Vernal Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Vernal with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best things to do, see, eat, and stay, and get ready to explore one of Utah's hidden gems.


Introduction to Vernal

Located in Northeastern Utah, Vernal is a small city located at the heart of the Dinosaur Land. What makes Vernal a unique destination is its stunning combination of natural beauty and prehistoric wonders. From dinosaur bones to beautiful canyons, Vernal offers a wide array of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences that make it a must-see destination for all travelers.

List of Places to Visit in Vernal

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Utah Field House of Natural History State Park Museum

If you’re looking for a place to explore the prehistoric world, the Utah Field House of Natural History State Park Museum is the perfect place to start. Here, you can see life-size dinosaur skeletons, fossils, and interactive exhibits that reveal the exciting history of Vernal.

Western Heritage Museum

The Western Heritage Museum is dedicated to preserving and promoting the cowboy culture. Here, you can discover the Western life through art, artifacts, and hands-on activities. Don’t miss the cowboy poetry and music performances that take place on a regular basis.

Ouray National Wildlife Refuge

The Ouray National Wildlife Refuge is a must-see destination for nature lovers. The refuge offers over 12,000 acres of wetlands and ponds home to hundreds of bird species, including eagles, pelicans, and swans. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars for a closer look.

Natural Attractions of Vernal: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Dinosaur National Monument

Dinosaur National Monument is one of Utah’s most famous landmarks and a must-visit destination when in Vernal. Here, you can see over 1,500 dinosaur fossils, hike through scenic trails, and raft through the Green and Yampa Rivers.

Red Fleet State Park

If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure, Red Fleet State Park is the perfect destination. The park offers activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating. Don’t miss the unique red sandstone formations that date back to the Jurassic period.

Diamond Mountain

Diamond Mountain is a perfect spot for a scenic hike. The mountain offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding lands, including rock formations, towering cliffs, and amazing landscapes. Don’t forget to pack a picnic to enjoy the view.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Vernal

Smith Park Trail

The Smith Park Trail is a 15-mile trail that winds through the Sand Wash Basin. The trail offers stunning views of the red rock formations and the surrounding landscapes. Bikers, hikers, and horseback riders can all enjoy this trail.

Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area

The Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area offers over 200 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The area is known for its scenic views, red rock formations, and diverse wildlife. There is a trail for any level of hiker or biker.

Best Things to Do in Vernal: Activities and Tours

Dinosaur Tracks Tour

The Dinosaur Tracks Tour is a great activity for families and history buffs. The tour takes you to the sites where over 1,000 dinosaur tracks were found. You can also see prehistoric carvings and fossils along the way.

Dinosaur Quarry Tour

The Dinosaur Quarry Tour takes you to the Dinosaur National Monument. Here, you can see fossils, bones, and skeletons of the prehistoric creatures that roamed the area millions of years ago. It’s a unique and educational experience for both kids and adults.

Week-Long Itinerary for Vernal

Day Activity
Day 1 Utah Field House of Natural History Museum
Day 2 Red Fleet State Park
Day 3 Dinosaur Tracks Tour
Day 4 Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area
Day 5 Diamond Mountain Hike
Day 6 Western Heritage Museum
Day 7 Ouray National Wildlife Refuge

Food and Drink Scene of Vernal

Must-Try Dishes

Fry Sauce

Fry sauce is a Utah classic and an absolute must-try. It’s a combination of ketchup, mayonnaise, and spices, and it’s perfect for dipping everything, from fries to burgers.

Green Jell-O

Green Jell-O is another Utah classic. It’s a sweet and fluffy dessert made from Jell-O and whipped cream. It’s often served at family dinners and potlucks.

Local Beverages

Wasatch Brewery’s Polygamy Porter

Polygamy Porter is a beer made by the Wasatch Brewery. It’s a smooth and dark beer with a rich flavor that’s perfect for any beer lover.

Rise Coffee House

Rise Coffee House is a cozy and trendy coffee shop that offers a great selection of coffee and tea. Don’t miss their popular honey lavender latte.

Where to Stay in Vernal: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Best Western Antlers

The Best Western Antlers is a budget-friendly hotel that offers comfortable rooms and great amenities, including an on-site pool and fitness center.

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Vernal

The SpringHill Suites by Marriott Vernal is a great choice for families or large groups. The hotel offers spacious suites with pull-out sofas, a pool, and a fitness center.

Park Hotel Vernal

The Park Hotel Vernal is a historic hotel that offers charming and cozy rooms in the heart of downtown Vernal. It’s a perfect spot for solo travelers or couples who want to explore the local culture.

What to Buy in Vernal: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Vernal T-Shirts and Caps

Pick up a Vernal t-shirt or cap as a souvenir of your trip. You can find them in local shops and gift stores.

Dinosaur Souvenirs

Dinosaur souvenirs are a popular choice for kids and adults. You can find everything from toy dinosaurs to prehistoric fossils in Vernal’s gift stores.

Local Culture and Customs of Vernal

Vernal is a small town with a friendly and welcoming community. If you want to experience the local culture, make sure to attend one of the many events and festivals that take place throughout the year, such as the Dinosaur Roundup Rodeo and the Uintah Basin Oil and Gas Summit.

Best Time to Visit Vernal

The best time to visit Vernal is during the spring and fall months when the weather is mild. However, if you want to experience the famous Dinosaur Roundup Rodeo, you should plan your trip for the last week of July.

Do’s and Don’ts of Vernal

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Be prepared for hiking and outdoor activities.
  • Try the local food and drinks.

Don’t:

  • Ignore safety precautions when exploring the outdoors.
  • Litter or damage the natural parks and landmarks.
  • Be disrespectful to the locals or their beliefs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Vernal

Vernal is a safe town with low crime rates. However, if you plan to explore the outdoors, make sure to follow safety precautions and be prepared for emergencies.

Health in Vernal

Vernal has medical facilities and pharmacies, but it’s always a good idea to bring your prescription medication with you. Make sure to have travel insurance to cover any medical emergencies.

Getting to Vernal: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Vernal

The closest airport to Vernal is the Vernal Regional Airport (VEL), located just 3 miles southeast of the city.

Bus Stations Near Vernal

The Greyhound bus station is located in nearby Price, Utah, about 70 miles south of Vernal.

Other Options

Car rentals and taxis are available in Vernal, but the best way to explore the area is by driving your own vehicle.

How to Get Around in Vernal

The easiest way to get around Vernal is by driving, as public transportation is limited. You can also rent a car or bike to explore the area.

Where to Go Next from Vernal: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Ogden, Utah

Ogden is a great destination for travelers who love the outdoors. The town is located just a few hours away from Vernal and offers activities such as skiing, hiking, and mountain biking.

Moab, Utah

Moab is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning red rock formations and National Parks. It’s located about 3 hours away from Vernal.

Conclusion

Vernal may be a small town, but it has a lot to offer to travelers who are looking for a unique and exciting adventure. From prehistoric wonders to beautiful landscapes, Vernal is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature and culture. Plan your trip now and get ready to explore one of Utah’s hidden gems.