Denis Julien Inscription, historic inscription in Dinosaur National Monument in Moffat County, Colorado, United States, that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places
The Denis Julien Inscription is a simple carving into a rock face located above the water level of the Green River in Whirlpool Canyon. The inscription displays the initials 'DJ' and the year 1838 and sits within Dinosaur National Monument today.
The inscription was carved in 1838 by Denis Julien, a French trapper, as he explored the area. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1986, recognizing its historical weight as evidence of early European exploration.
The inscription bears the name of a French trapper, showing the European presence in this wilderness during the 1800s. Visitors can see how early travelers left their marks and marked their routes through the land.
The site is visible from the riverbank only at low water levels or requires a boat trip through the canyon. Visitors should bring water, sturdy shoes, and plan to travel during daylight hours to safely navigate the rugged landscape.
Julien left at least eight carvings on rocks along the Green River and nearby waterways, with four listed on the national historic registry. This collection of his marks provides a rare documented record of a trapper's travel routes during the early exploration period.
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