The Dinosaur Valley State Park Ballroom is a must-visit destination for any dinosaur enthusiast. This remarkable site, located within the Dinosaur Valley State Park in Texas, is renowned for its impressive collection of well-preserved dinosaur tracks, offering a unique glimpse into the prehistoric past.
The Ballroom Track Site
The Ballroom track site is the largest in the park, covering an expansive area and showcasing a diverse array of dinosaur footprints. The site’s name is derived from the intricate patterns and directions of the tracks, which give the impression of a prehistoric dance floor.
Sauropod Tracks
The Ballroom is home to nine massive sauropod tracks, each measuring an impressive 36 inches in length. These colossal footprints are accompanied by mud swells that rise up to 8 inches above the surface, further emphasizing the sheer size and power of these long-necked herbivores. Additionally, the site features ten smaller, well-preserved juvenile sauropod tracks, providing evidence of the presence of young sauropods in the area.
Theropod Tracks
The Ballroom is also renowned for its abundance of theropod tracks, ranging from approximately 6 inches to 18 inches in length. These carnivorous dinosaur tracks display a variety of patterns, with some forming distinct trails, while others appear more scattered. Interestingly, some of the theropod tracks exhibit elongated shapes, and in certain instances, the impression of the dewclaw can be observed.
Slipping and Sliding Tracks
Many of the tracks at the Ballroom site show signs of slipping and sliding, indicating the dynamic nature of the environment during the time these dinosaurs roamed the area. This phenomenon provides valuable insights into the terrain and conditions that these prehistoric creatures navigated.
The Ballroom Annex
Adjacent to the Ballroom, the Ballroom Annex is another significant track site within the Dinosaur Valley State Park. Spanning approximately 160 feet in length and no more than 20 feet in width, the Annex features several eroded sauropod trails heading in a southwest direction, as well as numerous well-preserved theropod tracks.
Visiting the Dinosaur Valley State Park Ballroom
Accessing the Dinosaur Valley State Park Ballroom can be a rewarding experience for visitors. The site is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and the park entrance fee is $7 for adults, with children 12 and under admitted for free.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Ballroom track site is typically in the late summer, when water levels are at their lowest, allowing for optimal visibility of the tracks and mud swells.
Park Contact Information
For more information about the Dinosaur Valley State Park and the Ballroom track site, visitors can contact the park at (254) 897-4588.
Conclusion
The Dinosaur Valley State Park Ballroom is a true gem for dinosaur enthusiasts, offering a unique opportunity to witness the preserved footprints of these ancient creatures. From the massive sauropod tracks to the diverse theropod impressions, this site provides a captivating glimpse into the prehistoric world, inviting visitors to step back in time and immerse themselves in the wonders of the Mesozoic era.
References:
– Tripadvisor – Dinosaur Valley State Park
– Texas Parks and Wildlife Department – Dinosaur Tracks
– Friends of Dinosaur Valley State Park