Dinosaur Footprints Reservation

The Dinosaur Footprints Reservation is a protected natural area along the Connecticut River containing hundreds of tracks left by four types of two-legged dinosaurs in sandstone outcrops. The impressions are clearly visible and show the varying sizes and stride patterns of these prehistoric creatures.

Edward Hitchcock began studying these footprints in 1836, establishing this site as one of the earliest documented dinosaur track locations in North America. His work laid the foundation for paleontology in the region.

The trackways reveal how paleontologists piece together dinosaur behavior and movement patterns from stone records. Visitors can observe how researchers continue uncovering details from these ancient impressions today.

The reservation is open year-round and offers easy walking paths to view the footprints up close. Visit during dry conditions when the impressions show most clearly against the sandstone surface.

Multiple trackways run parallel to each other, suggesting these dinosaurs moved in groups rather than alone. This was one of the first clues showing that these animals were social beings that may have traveled together.

Location: Massachusetts

Operator: Trustees of Reservations

Address: Northampton Street

GPS coordinates: 42.24170,-72.62330

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:57