Desert Voices Trail

The Desert Voices Trail should be the first hike for any visitor to Dinosaur National Monument. Traversing a variety of desert topographies and showing off the beauty of this harsh and remote area, this trail also has terrific and informative commentary aimed at adults and kids throughout the route.

The trail starts from the parking area near the Split Mountain Campground and boat launch and heads up a rather scrubby wash/creekbed and doesn't offer much in the way of views for the first half mile or so. The route then heads up the side of the canyon and starts to wind up toward the ridge, offering great views that are similar to those on the Sound of Silence Trail, which is connected to this trail at the western edge of the loop. Continuing west to the Sound of Silence loop will make a great 4.7-mile trip. Late afternoon or mid-morning are great times to do this hike due to the warm sunlight that penetrates this east-west trail. 

At many spots along the trail there are signs that include some of the most thoughtful and interesting trail commentary in the park system. Incorporating local challenges and issues with water use, land use, and the compatibility of the park with traditional ranching activities, the displays are awesome. There are also some displays done by kids (generally around 12 years old) for kids, and these are thoughtful and interesting too.