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Dinosaur Valley Day Hike

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Date/Time
Date(s) - 09/10/2023
10:00 am - 5:00 pm

Location
Dinosaur Valley State Park

Categories


Dinosaur Valley Day Hike

Dates: 9/10 Time: 10 am – 5 pm
Registration Deadline:  9/8 Regular Cost: $40/$45
Location: Dinosaur Valley State Park

Trip Description:

Walk in the footsteps of those who came before us at Dinosaur Valley State Park. You’ll know you’ve arrived at the site when you see the large dinosaur sculptures towering over the TCU van. A mere hour from campus, Dinosaur Valley contains the footprints of dinosaurs from millions of years ago, preserved in almost perfect condition in the river bed. Hike the trails and wade in the river to search for these unique features. Dino Valley is also known for its fishing and camping. Take a break from campus life and get away to experience nature and history!

Trip Cost:

Regular Registration: $40 with a TCU ID, $45 as a sponsored guest

  • Prices reflect the TCU student/faculty and sponsored guest rate.
  • Please read our cancellation/refund policy carefully before registering.
  • Price does not include meals on the road

Trip Registration:

Register in-person at the Campus Rec Front Office or online @ mycampusrec.tcu.edu

Pretrip

Itinerary

Packing List

Physical Challenge

Risks/Safety

Hygiene/Comfort

Weather

Outfitting & Food

Policies

Pre-Trip Meeting:

There will be no Pre-Trip meeting scheduled for this trip although you should receive an email regarding details of the trip from your Trip Leader.

Itinerary

10:00am: Meet at the climbing wall at the Rec

10:15am: Leave for Dino Valley

11:30am: Arrive! Do an icebreaker, take a hike, enjoy lunch, and search for dino tracks.

4:30pm: Leave the park and head back to TCU

Packing List

Please bring shoes that you are able to hike around in and are supportive. Tennis shoes or hiking boots are required for this trip. We will be doing two river crossings so please wear pants that you can roll up for these crossings. You will be able to take your shoes off during these crossings or you may bring extra water shoes. Please bring layers in case it gets cold while we are hiking. Water is a necessity so please bring a full water bottle as well as your own lunch/snacks. A small day pack is a good idea to bring to carry all of your things in.

Physical Challenge

Hiking and scrambling around in the Dinosaur Valley State Park can be strenuous on the legs. Designated trails may be non-existent. We could be hiking 2-4 miles over rough terrain as we explore. Staying well hydrated, taking your time, resting when necessary (but not for too long), and keeping your energy level high is essential. Trip members should be in good physical condition.  We will be hiking for at least two hours and traveling at least two miles. Please be prepared to walk this far.

TRIP RATING 1 out of 3 – This is a beginner hiking trip.   

Risk/Hazard/Safety

There are numerous risks and hazards associated with the Dinosaur Valley State Park. Not dressing appropriately can result in heat or cold illnesses (Hyperthermia or Hypothermia). Not drinking enough water results in dehydration and not being in good enough physical condition can result in sore muscles. Trip members must make a conscious effort to be safe. One person’s disdain for safety will always result in more hardship for the group. If we do have an accident or injury that requires medical attention beyond the scope of our leader’s experience, the trip is immediately over without refund. Our leaders are trained to administer first aid in an outdoor environment; however, while they may be able to treat injuries they cannot always prevent them.

Hygiene / Comfort

There are restrooms available around the park. There will not be bathrooms along the trails so you will have to plan accordingly.

Weather

The trip leaders will research the weather conditions in advance to assess the situation. The trip will be cancelled if the weather is dangerous. If you do not receive an email about this, then please be prepared to be out in the weather. Please follow the weather and use your best judgement as well as the packing list to determine what you will personally need to stay warm and dry during the entirety of this trip. Layers are recommended for cold weather and failure to bring proper attire will be detrimental to your experience.

Please contact Emily Tumilty, Coordinator – Outdoor Programs with any questions at e.tumilty@tcu.edu