If you want to discover Queensland’s prehistoric past, a trip along the Dinosaur Trail Qld is an absolute must. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or new to the
The three key towns of the dinosaur trail Qld are—Winton, Hughenden, and Richmond—are packed with fascinating discoveries that will leave you in awe. I know it did for Kev, even though I virtually had to drag him to Winton last year! He came away thankful that we had visited both the Winton and Lark Quarry Dino experiences.
Now that Kev and I have visited all three towns, I’ll take you on a journey along the Dinosaur Trail. I’ll provide an easy-to-follow itinerary that guarantees a trip filled with excitement, learning, and plenty of dinosaur encounters.
Setting Off: Arrival in Winton
Our journey begins in Winton, a small outback town with a massive connection to dinosaurs. As you approach Winton, you’ll instantly feel the spirit of discovery in the air, plus it looks like Dinosaur Country the moment you head to the Jump Up.
Known as the “home of the dinosaur,” Winton is rich in both cultural and paleontological history.
Once you arrive, I highly recommend starting your adventure at the Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum. Located just outside of town, this is the largest collection of Australian dinosaur fossils, and it’s a wonderful exhibit.
You’ll learn about the giants that once roamed these lands, and if you’re lucky, you might even see palaeontologists at work (you will see volunteers) uncovering fossils. It’s a brilliant way to kick off your Dinosaur Trail journey.
Lark Quarry
After the museum, make your way to Lark Quarry Dinosaur Trackways, about 110 km from Winton. This is the only known site in the world where a dinosaur stampede has been preserved, making it an incredible experience.
The tracks are 95 million years old, and standing in front of them is like stepping back in time. To get the most out of the visit, be sure to take the guided tour we highly recommend it.
Exploring Winton’s Rich History
Winton isn’t just about dinosaurs; the town is also steeped in Australian history. While you’re here, don’t miss the Waltzing Matilda Centre, which celebrates the famous song penned by Banjo Paterson right here in Winton.
The museum is interactive and engaging, giving you a wonderful insight into Australia’s outback culture. It’s also a great way to break up your dinosaur-themed adventure with a bit of music and poetry. After a busy morning of exploring, stop for lunch at one of the local cafes. Trust me, nothing beats a good country pub meal to refuel you for the rest of the day!
As the day winds down, head back to town and check in at one of Winton’s welcoming accommodations. Whether you prefer a
We stayed at the free free camp in Winton. Click below for more information.
Click here to read our extensive blog post about 29 Top Things To Do In Winton
Journey to Hughenden: The Fossil Hub
The next day, it’s time to hit the road again, heading 215 km northeast to Hughenden. The drive will give you a real sense of how vast and rugged Queensland’s outback is, but don’t worry—the destination is well worth the journey.
Hughenden is famous for its impressive fossil discoveries, particularly of the Muttaburrasaurus, one of Australia’s best-known dinosaurs. Your first stop should be the Flinders Discovery Centre, where a life-size skeletal replica of this iconic creature will greet you. The museum offers plenty of hands-on exhibits, so it’s a hit for kids and adults alike.
While you’re in Hughenden, take the time to explore the town’s history. Several self-guided walking trails highlight the historical and cultural landmarks around town. One of the most popular is the Dinosaur Fossil Trail, which brings the prehistoric world to life right in the heart of town.
Hughenden’s Natural Wonders: Porcupine Gorge
One of Hughenden’s hidden gems is Porcupine Gorge National Park, often referred to as Queensland’s “Little Grand Canyon.” About an hour’s drive north of Hughenden, this stunning gorge is carved through layers of multi-coloured sandstone and offers breathtaking views.
Spend a few hours hiking the trails, or if you’re up for it, tackle the steep descent to the bottom of the gorge, where you’ll be rewarded with a refreshing dip in the waterholes. The gorge is a perfect spot for a picnic, so pack a lunch and enjoy the serenity of this natural wonder.
After a day of exploring both Hughenden’s fossils and Porcupine Gorge, return to town for a quiet evening. Whether you’re camping or staying in one of the local motels, Hughenden offers a peaceful retreat after a day of adventure.
On to Richmond: A Fossil Hunter’s Dream
After two days of dino-filled fun, it’s time to hit the road again, this time heading 112 km northwest to Richmond, the final stop on your Dinosaur Trail journey. Richmond is known for its marine fossils, and here you’ll step into a world that predates even the dinosaurs on land.
Richmond’s star attraction is Kronosaurus Korner, a museum dedicated to the prehistoric marine reptiles that once swam in the inland seas covering much of Queensland. The museum boasts an impressive collection, including the skeleton of a massive Kronosaurus, one of the largest marine reptiles to ever exist. You’ll also find fossils of ancient fish, turtles, and other sea creatures.
One of the highlights of visiting Richmond is the opportunity to go fossil hunting yourself! There are designated fossil hunting sites around the town where you can search for your very own piece of prehistory. It’s a thrilling experience, and who knows—you might just uncover the next big discovery!
Fossil Hunting: Richmond’s Best Kept Secret
Fossil hunting in Richmond is a must-do activity, especially for families. Head out to the Fossil Hunting Sites, located just outside of town, where you can dig through layers of history. All you need is a small hammer, a chisel, and a lot of patience.
Many visitors have found fossils on their adventures, from ancient shells to small marine reptile bones. Even if you don’t make a significant find, it’s still an exciting way to connect with the past, and you get to keep any fossils you unearth! Make sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the outback sun can be intense.
Relaxing in Richmond: Outback Charm
After a day of fossil hunting, Richmond offers a great spot to unwind and take in the quiet beauty of the outback. I recommend spending the evening strolling around Lake Fred Tritton, a man-made lake on the edge of town where locals and visitors alike go for a swim, fish, or just relax.
Richmond’s small-town charm makes it a perfect place to wind down after the excitement of the Dinosaur Trail. We stayed at the
Heading Home or Continuing Your Adventure
After spending a few days exploring the rich history of the Dinosaur Trail, it’s time to either head home or continue your outback adventure. If you have more time, I highly recommend exploring some of the nearby national parks or continuing further into Queensland’s vast interior.
Queenslands Dinosaur Trail is a journey that combines adventure, history, and plenty of fun. Each town—Winton, Hughenden, and Richmond—offers its own unique window into Australia’s prehistoric past, and you’ll leave with unforgettable memories (and maybe even a fossil or two).
Top Tips for the Dinosaur Trail Qld
- Best Time to Visit: The cooler months between April and September are ideal for exploring the Dinosaur Trail. Temperatures can be quite extreme in summer, so plan accordingly.
- Packing Essentials: Pack sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), plenty of water, and comfortable shoes for walking. If you’re planning to go fossil hunting, bring a small hammer and chisel.
- Travelling by
Caravan : The roads connecting Winton, Hughenden, and Richmond are all bitumen and well-suited to caravans. There are plenty ofcaravan parks in each town, so you’ll have no trouble finding a place to stay. But do… - Book in Advance: During peak travel times, accommodation can fill up quickly, especially in Winton and Richmond, so be sure to book ahead.
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With years of experience travelling Australia in a caravan, I’m passionate about helping others embark on their own unforgettable adventures. From off-grid camping tips to expert advice on planning the ultimate big lap of Australia, I share stories, practical hacks, and inspiration to make your journey stress-free and exciting. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or just starting out, join me as I explore the beauty of Australia, one road at a time!
