Dinosaur Valley State Park Blue Hole is a popular destination for swimming and fishing in Glen Rose, Texas. The Blue Hole is a deep swimming area in the Paluxy River, located in the heart of Dinosaur Valley State Park, and offers a depth of 20 feet in some places. It is spring-fed and is a popular area for many visitors, especially during the summer. The Blue Hole Trail is a one-mile trail that preserves dinosaur tracks along the Paluxy River, making it a unique destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Exploring the Blue Hole Trail
The Blue Hole Trail is an out-and-back trail with an elevation gain of 223 feet, offering scenic views of the river and the opportunity to explore dinosaur tracks. The trail is suitable for a day trip from Dallas or an overnight trip at one of the park’s campgrounds. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, making it accessible for hikers of all skill levels.
Discovering Dinosaur Tracks
The park is home to dinosaur tracks, including theropod tracks, which are the three-toed footprints left by dinosaurs millions of years ago. The tracks are visible in the riverbed, but their visibility may vary depending on the water level. Visitors are advised to call ahead to the park office to ensure that it’s a good time to visit if their main purpose is to see the dinosaur tracks.
Annual Dino Dive Event
The Dino Dive is an annual event that takes place on the first day of every year, where participants jump into the Blue Hole. The event is a tradition that has been taking place for eight years, and participants receive an official Dinosaur Valley State Park Dino Dive medal. The event is a fundraiser for the Friends of Dinosaur Valley State Park, and all profits help with educational programs, supplies, and more.
Nearby Attractions
Visitors to Dinosaur Valley State Park can also explore the nearby town of Glen Rose, which is known as the “Dinosaur Capital of Texas”. The town offers various attractions such as Barnard’s Mill and Art Museum, the Somervell County Museum, and the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center.
Activities at Dinosaur Valley State Park
In addition to the Blue Hole Trail and dinosaur tracks, Dinosaur Valley State Park offers a variety of activities for visitors, including:
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Camping | The park offers both RV and tent camping sites, as well as cabins and yurts. |
| Picnicking | Visitors can enjoy a picnic lunch in one of the park’s designated picnic areas. |
| Hiking | The park has over 20 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging. |
| Mountain Biking | The park has several mountain biking trails for riders of all skill levels. |
| Swimming | The Blue Hole is a popular swimming spot, and the park also has a swimming pool. |
| Fishing | The Paluxy River is stocked with various fish species, making it a popular fishing destination. |
| Paddling | Visitors can explore the Paluxy River by kayak or canoe. |
Conclusion
Dinosaur Valley State Park Blue Hole is a unique destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering scenic views, dinosaur tracks, and various activities such as swimming, fishing, and hiking. The park is home to the annual Dino Dive event, which is a fundraiser for the Friends of Dinosaur Valley State Park. Visitors can also explore the nearby town of Glen Rose and its various attractions.
References:
– Tripadvisor – Dinosaur Valley State Park
– Friends of Dinosaur Valley State Park – Swimming
– Texas Parks and Wildlife Department – Dinosaur Valley State Park
– Friends of Dinosaur Valley State Park – Dino Dive
– The Outbound – Discover Dinosaur Tracks Along Blue Hole Trail