Queensland's Dinosaur Trail is one of the great touring routes of outback Australia — a journey of roughly 332 kilometres linking three remarkable towns whose fossils together tell the story of a lost world. From the marine reptiles of Richmond to the Muttaburrasaurus of Hughenden and the mighty land dinosaurs of Winton, the trail spans the ancient inland sea and the floodplains that followed it. Cooee Tours travels the Dinosaur Trail as a fully escorted coach journey, removing the long outback distances so you can focus on the science and the spectacle.
Three Towns, One Lost World
The Dinosaur Trail connects Richmond, Hughenden and Winton in a loop through north-west Queensland's fossil country. Each town holds a different chapter: Richmond's Kronosaurus Korner showcases marine reptiles from the Cretaceous inland sea; Hughenden's Flinders Discovery Centre is home to the Muttaburrasaurus; and Winton's Australian Age of Dinosaurs holds the largest collection of Australian dinosaur fossils in the country.
Travelling them in sequence makes sense of the whole story — how an inland sea gave way to vast floodplains, and how those environments preserved such an extraordinary fossil record. A guided journey ties the chapters together as a single narrative.
Lark Quarry & the Stampede
South-west of Winton lies Lark Quarry, protecting the world's only known record of a dinosaur stampede — thousands of fossilised footprints preserved beneath a purpose-built shelter and interpreted by guided tour. It is one of the most atmospheric fossil sites anywhere.
Where itineraries allow, Cooee Tours can incorporate the Lark Quarry experience, adding a genuinely moving moment to the trail — a single dramatic event frozen in stone for 95 million years.
Why Travel the Trail with Cooee Tours
The Dinosaur Trail covers serious outback distances, with long stretches between the towns. Self-driving it means planning fuel, accommodation and timing across remote country. On a Cooee Tours coach journey, all of that is handled — transport, quality accommodation, meals and guided experiences are included.
Our guides bring the science to life and add the human stories of discovery, so you arrive at each museum with real context. It is the most relaxed and rewarding way to experience the trail.
Trail Highlights
Kronosaurus Korner, Richmond
Marine reptiles and superbly preserved fossils from the ancient inland sea — including some of Australia's finest vertebrate specimens.
Flinders Discovery Centre, Hughenden
Meet the Muttaburrasaurus, one of Australia's most complete dinosaur skeletons, and explore the prehistory of the region.
Age of Dinosaurs & Lark Quarry, Winton
The largest Australian dinosaur fossil collection, plus the world's only recorded dinosaur stampede at Lark Quarry.
Travel the Dinosaur Trail with Cooee Tours
Our fully escorted Dinosaur Trail touring links Richmond, Hughenden and Winton — with the long outback distances handled and a knowledgeable guide bringing the science to life. Transport, accommodation, meals and guided experiences are all included.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Queensland Dinosaur Trail?
It is a touring route of roughly 332 km linking Richmond, Hughenden and Winton, connecting marine reptile fossils, the Muttaburrasaurus, the largest Australian dinosaur fossil collection and the Lark Quarry trackways.
How long does the Dinosaur Trail take?
Travelled properly, the trail is best enjoyed over several days. Cooee Tours builds it into fully escorted itineraries with comfortable pacing and quality accommodation along the way.
What can you see on the Dinosaur Trail?
Highlights include Kronosaurus Korner at Richmond, the Flinders Discovery Centre at Hughenden, the Australian Age of Dinosaurs at Winton, and — where time allows — the Lark Quarry dinosaur stampede.
Do I need to drive the Dinosaur Trail myself?
No. Cooee Tours travels the trail as a fully escorted coach journey, so the long outback distances, accommodation and meals are all taken care of for you.
When is the best time to travel the Dinosaur Trail?
The cooler, dry months from April to October are ideal, as north-west Queensland becomes very hot in summer.
Travel Agents & Group Organisers
This destination suits coach groups, clubs and social groups touring Outback Queensland. Cooee Tours offers net rates, custom routing and guaranteed departures — get in touch to discuss your group's needs.