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Petroglyph National Monument

The Petroglyph National Monument came into existence in 1990 to protect sacred symbols on a 17-mile stretch of land in Albuquerque, NM. The petroglyph sites are among the largest in North America, featuring various natural and cultural resources. When you walk through this piece of land, you'll go back in time and see the symbols and designs that early Spanish settlers and ancestral Native Puebloans carved on volcanic rocks. The images, represented as people, animals, crosses, or brands, are vital as they record culture and hold spiritual value to the descendants of the early settlers. A history buff will have many other things to explore, including a surfeit of archaeological sites and five volcanic cones. When you go to Petroglyph National Monument, you can access major sites such as Boca Negra Canyon, Piedras Marcadas Canyon, Rinconada Canyon, and Volcano Day Use trails.

Things to Do

Things To Do Near Petroglyph National Monument

Petroglyph National Monument has various trails where you can view prehistoric rock art images. The artwork is fascinating to the eye, and you can have fun trying to discern what the artists wanted to convey with their rock drawings. You'll also get to go on a historical hike, climb up a hilly region, and have scenic views of the surrounding city. You can start at the visitor center, where you'll get all the information you need, including trail guides and brochures, on accessing the petroglyph viewing trails, about 1-6 miles away.

Hiking Trails

Sightseeing

Museums

Nearby Shops and Restaurants

map-marker-alt-regular How to Get There

How To Get To Petroglyph National Monument

If you're heading to the national monument site from Interstate 40, drive along the Unser Boulevard exit 154; head three miles north, and turn left to Western Trail. Follow the road towards the national monument's parking garage. When coming to the national monument from Interstate 25, head over to the Paseo del Norte Boulevard, exit 232, and drive west towards Coors Boulevard. Head south towards the Western trail; turn right, and follow the road to the parking lot.

Petroglyph National Monument is a day-use area open daily from sunrise to sunset.

Address

Visitor Information Center, Unser Blvd. NW at Western Trail, Albuquerque, NM, 87120

Fee: Parking Fee (Weekday) $1.0

Fee: Parking Fee (Weekend) $2.0

Petroglyph National Monument shares a vital part of the Puebloan culture and history. The site is worth visiting to get insight into how the ancient people lived and interacted. Other than an educational tour, you can go on a nature expedition and see all that the environment has to offer. If you want to stay and immerse yourself in this ancient culture, an RV is a great way to travel.