On Tuesday, April 9th, the Grand Mesa, Uncompahge, and Gunnison National Forests acquired three patented mining claim parcels totaling approximately 27 acres in Ouray County, Colorado. Two of the three parcels contain a rarely recorded fossilized dinosaur trackway comprised of 134 consecutive footprints, 106 yards long, known as the West Gold Hill Dinosaur Track site. The site is recorded as the largest continuous dinosaur trackway in the world. The acquisition solidifies public access along National Forest System Trail (NFST) #199 –Silvershield trail and protects the rare dinosaur tracks for generations to come.
“Acquisition of these new parcels, with the unique dinosaur trackway, highlights our dedication to conservation," stated Jim Pitts, Acting Forest Supervisor for the GMUG. "By preserving these fossilized imprints, we are not only safeguarding a valuable scientific resource but also creating an incredible opportunity for the public to connect with the distant past, inspiring curiosity, education and stewardship."
The parcels were purchased from the Charles Real Estate Trust with funding from the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) for recreation access. Created by Congress in 1964, the LWCF provides money to federal, state and local governments to purchase land, water and wetlands for the benefit of all Americans.
The Charles family has owned the parcels since 1945, with the dream of prospecting for gold. Jack Charles and his five children often spent their summer vacation packing supplies for their camp to improve the sites and trails. It wasn’t until 2021 that the family became aware that the pothole-like features on their property were prehistoric dinosaur tracks. The tracks, which often held water, were a favorite resting spot for their family dogs. The family approached the Forest Service in 2022 about the agency’s interest in acquiring the land for public and research benefit due to the unique features along the trail.
“The family is happy to offer this unique trackway to the U.S. Forest Service, ensuring that the land is protected and enjoyed by future generations,” said Anita McDonald, daughter of Jack Charles and a trustee of the estate.
The dinosaur trackway is located at 9,300 feet in elevation and is etched in sandstone layers that are over 150 million years old. The tracks were made by a single long-neck sauropod dinosaur, looping in a 270-degree turn, a rarely recorded occurrence in the fossil record of dinosaurs.
Now that the parcels are in public ownership, the Forest Service plans to develop interpretive information, including signage and a web page, to inform visitors about the site's significance and natural history. Those interested in learning more about the trackway can see it via Google Earth or read more about the site's significance here.
Visitors wanting to view the site in person can access the trackway via a two-mile hike (one way) via Silvershield Trail. Trail conditions are steep and rugged, with an elevation gain of approximately 1,600 feet. The trailhead and parking are accessed via County Road 17 near Ouray, Colorado and is open to foot and horse travel only. Parking is limited and located on private property in a residential neighborhood, so please be considerate to others. Visitors are reminded to “know before you go” and be prepared for sudden weather changes or unexpected circumstances.
Jeff
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