Linxia Dinosaur Footprints Park Guide: World's Largest Tracks

Situated in the rugged red cliffs of Yongjing County, within Linxia Prefecture in Gansu Province, the Linxia Dinosaur Footprints Fossil Park (also known as the Yongjing Dinosaur Tracks) is one of the world’s most significant paleontological sites. Covering approximately 2 square kilometers at an elevation of 1,750 meters, this park preserves an extraordinary concentration of dinosaur footprints from the late Cretaceous period. The tracks, etched into red sandstone, have survived for over 170 million years, offering a rare window into the behavior and environment of dinosaurs that once roamed the ancient lakeshores of what is now northwestern China.

This guide covers what makes the site remarkable, how to interpret the fossils, and practical advice for planning a visit. Because the park is less developed than major Chinese fossil parks, the information presented here relies on the available source data and general travel knowledge for the region. Where exact details are absent, this guide provides safe decision-making guidance to help you prepare.

Overview of the Site

The park is built around a fossil bed that scientists call the “Dinosaur Arena”—a remarkable amphitheater of rock where multiple trackways are preserved in situ (exactly as they were found). Unlike many fossil sites where tracks are removed to museums, the Linxia park displays footprints in their original position within the stone layers, allowing visitors to see the exact orientation and spacing that dinosaurs left behind.

The site lies within the Liujiaxia Reservoir area, a region famous for its red Danxia landforms. The contrast between the deep red cliffs and the blue water of the reservoir creates a striking landscape that complements the paleontological interest. The park itself is open to the public, though it is not as well-known internationally as other Chinese fossil sites like the Zigong Dinosaur Museum or the Lufeng Dinosaur Valley.

Why This Site Matters

The Linxia dinosaur footprints are notable for three main reasons:

• Diversity: The “Dinosaur Arena” contains ten different types of tracks from sauropods, theropods, and ornithopods.
• Record size: A single sauropod footprint measures 1.5 meters long and 1.1 meters wide, believed to be one of the largest ever documented.
• Rare behavioral evidence: The site includes tracks that indicate swimming behavior—an extremely uncommon fossil trace that has been documented in major scientific archives.

The Footprints: What You Will See

When you visit, the main attraction is the exposed Devonian and Cretaceous sandstone slabs that tilt at varying angles, revealing hundreds of individual footprints and trackways. The footprints are not just shallow depressions; many show remarkable detail, including the texture of the dinosaur’s skin and impressions of joints.

Sauropod Prints

The most famous footprint is the massive sauropod track. Sauropods were long-necked, four-legged herbivores—the largest land animals ever. The footprint here is so large that you can lie down inside it.

The stride length between successive prints is estimated at about 30 meters, indicating an animal of enormous size and speed. Although the bones of the animal that made these prints have not been found locally, the tracks alone provide compelling evidence that such giants walked through what is now Gansu.

Theropod Tracks

Theropods (carnivorous dinosaurs that walked on two legs) left their own distinctive three-toed prints. Some are sharp and deep, suggesting movement at a brisk pace. Others show drag marks from claws, giving insight into how these predators moved along the ancient shoreline.

Ornithopod Tracks

Ornithopods (herbivorous dinosaurs that often walked on two or four legs) also left their mark. Their footprints are generally smaller and rounder than theropod tracks, and they often appear in groups, hinting at possible social behavior.

Swimming Tracks

Perhaps the most scientifically valuable discovery at Linxia is the set of tracks that indicate swimming. These are not typical footprints; rather, they are long, shallow scrapes in the rock that show how a dinosaur used its claws to push off the bottom while buoyant in water. Such evidence is extremely rare globally and has been cited in research on dinosaur aquatic capabilities.

Scientific Significance

The Linxia site is not just a collection of tracks; it is a window into a specific ecosystem from the late Cretaceous. The high concentration of footprints from multiple species suggests that this area was a lakeshore or river margin where dinosaurs congregated. The preservation of skin impressions, trackways with changing directions, and the swimming traces provide data that skeletal fossils alone cannot offer—behavior in motion.

Paleontologists have used the trackway data to estimate the hip height, stride length, and speed of the dinosaurs that made them. For example, the large sauropod trackway suggests a walking speed of around 6–12 kilometers per hour, depending on the step cycle. The park continues to be an active research site, and some areas may be closed for ongoing study.

Visitor Information

Best Time to Visit

The ideal window is from May to October. September and October are considered the “golden months” for clear skies and comfortable temperatures. Summer can be hot, with temperatures rising above 30°C (86°F), but the dry climate makes it bearable. Winter visits are possible but cold, and occasional snow may obscure the tracks.

Location and Getting There

The park is located in the northern part of Yongjing County, Linxia Prefecture, Gansu Province. The nearest major city is Lanzhou, about 120 kilometers away by road. From Lanzhou, you can drive via the G213 highway to Yongjing, then follow signs to the Liuijiaxia Reservoir area. The last stretch is a winding mountain road.

Allow about 2–3 hours one way from Lanzhou. Public buses from Lanzhou’s Xiaoxihu bus station run to Yongjing, then a local taxi or minibus can take you to the park entrance. The park is also close to the Bingling Temple Grottoes, a major Buddhist site, so you can combine both in a day trip from Lanzhou.

Tickets and Hours

The park charges an admission fee (specific prices subject to change; check official sources before travel). As of the latest available data, tickets were not expensive by China standards. Opening hours are generally daylight hours, but it is best to confirm on site or with a local tour operator.

What to Bring

• Sturdy shoes: The rock surfaces can be uneven and slippery, especially after rain.
• Sun protection: Hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are essential. Sunlight reflects off the red rock.
• Water: Carry at least 1 liter per person; facilities for purchasing drinks near the track area are limited.
• Camera: Wide-angle lens or a phone with a good camera works well for capturing the footprints in their setting.
• Binoculars: Optional, but useful for viewing higher trackways on tilted slabs.

Nearby Attractions

The park is part of the Liujiaxia Reservoir scenic area. Within a short drive you can visit:

• Bingling Temple Grottoes: A UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning Buddhist cliff carvings and caves accessible by boat across the reservoir.
• Liujiaxia Dam: A large hydroelectric dam offering tours and panoramic views of the reservoir.
• Yongjing County: A small town with local markets and simple restaurants serving Gansu cuisine such as beef noodles and lamian.

A combined two-day itinerary from Lanzhou could include the dinosaur park, the Bingling Temple, and a stay in Yongjing.

Photography Tips

The footprints are best photographed in the morning or late afternoon when low sunlight creates shadows in the depressions, enhancing their visibility. Avoid midday sun, which flattens the contrast. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare from the sandstone.

If you want to capture the scale of the giant sauropod print, have a person stand next to it for reference. Drone use may be restricted due to the park’s proximity to the reservoir dam and military areas; always ask park staff before launching.

FAQ

Where is the park located?
It is located in the northern part of Yongjing County, Linxia Prefecture, Gansu Province.

What is the most famous fossil in the park?
The world-class sauropod footprint, which is 1.5 meters long and 1.1 meters wide.

Are the tracks real or replicas?
The tracks are authentic fossils preserved in-situ (on the original discovery site) within the rock layers.

When is the best time to visit?
The ideal window is from May to October. September and October are considered the “golden months” for clear skies and pleasant temperatures.

What else can I see nearby?
The park is close to the Liujiaxia Reservoir and the Bingling Temple Grottoes, which are part of the same Silk Road cultural route.

How much time should I allow for the park?
A thorough visit takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. If you are a fossil enthusiast, you may want to budget 3 hours.

Is the park suitable for children?
Yes, older children who enjoy dinosaurs will be fascinated. Very young children may become restless on the uneven rocks. The site is not wheelchair accessible due to the natural terrain.

Are there guides available?
On-site guides may be available in Chinese, but English-language guides are rare. Consider hiring a private English-speaking guide from Lanzhou.

Practical Decision Guidance

Who Should Visit

• Paleontology enthusiasts and dinosaur lovers of all ages
• Travelers on the Silk Road wanting a break from temples and cities
• Photographers interested in unique rock textures and landscape contrast
• Families with children who have a basic interest in fossils

Who Might Skip

• Visitors with mobility issues (no paved paths, uneven slopes)
• Travelers on a tight schedule (the site is a detour from the main Lanzhou–Xining route)
• Anyone expecting a modern museum experience (the park is relatively rustic)

Safety Notes

Altitude of 1,750 meters is mild and poses no risk for most people. However, the dry climate and strong sun can cause dehydration quickly. Wear a hat and drink water consistently. The rock surfaces are sharp—avoid touching the footprints unnecessarily to protect them for future visitors. Cell phone reception is patchy in the valley; download offline maps beforehand.

Route Logic

Most visitors approach from Lanzhou. A common route: Lanzhou → G213 to Yongjing (about 1.5 hours) → continue to Liujiaxia Reservoir (20 minutes) → follow signs to the Dinosaur Footprints Geological Park. The Bingling Temple Grottoes boat departure point is about 30 minutes from the park; you can combine both in one long day.

If you are driving from Linxia city (south), take the S210 highway north to Yongjing, then follow local signs. The drive from Linxia takes about 1 hour.

Conclusion

The Linxia Dinosaur Footprints Fossil Park stands out among Chinese fossil sites for its in-situ display, record-breaking footprints, and rare swimming traces. While the park infrastructure is basic, the raw authenticity of the tracks and the dramatic red-rock setting create a memorable experience.

Plan your visit between May and October, combine it with the nearby Bingling Temple, and come prepared with sun protection and sturdy shoes. For anyone fascinated by the deep past, this geologically rich corner of Gansu delivers an unparalleled window into the movements of dinosaurs along an ancient shoreline.