Words by Heather Mundt
Colorado is a world-renowned destination for visitors clamoring to explore our Rocky Mountains and its numerous recreation opportunities. But there are also plenty of other beautiful spots outside of our gorgeous mountains that offer endless spots for outdoor enthusiast. One of them is Moffat County, the farthest northwest county of the state’s 64, a bastion of both Old West history and home to one of the state’s most remote treasures, Dinosaur National Monument.
A view from an easy hike that follows along the Green River; our campground is tucked behind those trees.
Comprising only five small towns—Craig is the largest—my family and I got a chance to stay in Moffat County for a few nights in 2020 while researching my book, “Colorado Family Outdoor Adventure,” and it was hands-down one of my favorite new-to-me destinations. Although my husband, Michael, and I had already visited the monument’s Quarry Exhibit Hall (on the monument’s Utah side), which protects 149-year-old fossils “in situ” or where they were originally deposited, this was our first visit with our two boys, now 14 and 16. Our stay included two nights camping in the monument, one at the Echo Park Campground, a remote spot near the Green River offering views of one of the state’s most spectacular yet little-known geologic highlights, Steamboat Rock.
Searching for the wild horses of Sand Wash Basin is a popular pursuit in Moffat County.
The author’s husband and sons standing in the Green River in front of majestic Steamboat Rock. Photo by Heather Mundt.
Heather Mundt is a Colorado-based writer. She recently published the book Colorado Family Outdoor Adventure and also blogs at https://www.momfari.com. Give her a follow on instagram @momfari
Pick up a copy of her book in local bookstores, or online to learn more about trip highlights and other Centennial State destinations!