In 1876, fossil excavation began at Dinosaur Ridge under the direction of Yale paleontologist Dr. Othniel Charles Marsh.

In 1989, the Friends of Dinosaur Ridge non-profit was formed to address concerns regarding the preservation of the site and to offer educational programs on the area's resources.

When Alameda Parkway was being constructed in 1937 (by the WPA) in order to provide access to Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, workers discovered dinosaur tracks.

The site offers guided bus tours, interpretive signage, a small Exhibit Hall with geological and paleontological displays, a Discovery Center, and a gift shop.

This trail follows a paved closed road that climbs about 700 feet (210 m) from the main visitor center to the high point along the ridge backbone.