Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Elevation Gain
254.00 ft (77.42 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
1.75 mi (2.82 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Petroglyph Canyon is located in to the northern section of San Rafael Swell (north of U.S. Highway 70). The trailhead is at the mouth of a dry wash in a shaded area, and shade is scarce in this area.  There are two trails that leave from the parking area. The one straight into a vegetated area is a dead end. Follow the trail to the left that parallels the cliffs of San Rafael Swell (this is the same trail to reach Spirit Arch Canyon). The trail will gradually round a corner and enter a dry wash. Cross the wash and ascend a steep hill with the wash on the right. The trail traverses above the wash until it makes a right turn back toward the wash. Keep left, turning into a open box canyon. You will not have to travel far into this canyon. Look to the right for the manganese stained sandstone wall, the petroglyphs are located here. Return the way you came.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Winter
Spring
Fall

Congestion

Low

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Petroglyphs.

Cons

Hot in summer.

Trailhead Elevation

4,298.00 ft (1,310.03 m)

Highest point

4,552.00 ft (1,387.45 m)

Features

Historically significant
Family friendly
Native artifacts

Typically multi-day

No

Permit required

No

Location

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