Moab: Petroglyphs

In addition to the stunning natural wonders such as Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, the area is also home to ancient petroglyphs. These rock carvings provide a glimpse into the past and the history of the area’s Native American tribes.

What are Petroglyphs?

Petroglyphs are rock carvings created by ancient people. They are found all over the world, but some of the most impressive ones are found in the Moab area. The petroglyphs in the area were created by Native American tribes who lived in the area thousands of years ago. The petroglyphs are a unique window into the lives of these ancient people.

Native American Tribes of the Moab Area

The Moab area is home to several Native American tribes, including the Ute, Paiute, Navajo, and Hopi. These tribes have a long and rich history in the area, and their presence is still felt today. The petroglyphs are an important part of this history and are a testament to the area’s long and rich cultural heritage.

The Age of the Petroglyphs

The petroglyphs around Moab are incredibly old, estimated to be around 5,000 years old. This means that they were created long before the area was inhabited by the Native American tribes that we know today. The petroglyphs are a reminder of the people who have called this place home for thousands of years.

Locations of Petroglyphs around Moab

Three of the most easily found locations for viewing these rock carvings are Delicate Arch Trail and along the river on Potash Road and Moonflower Canyon. The petroglyphs along Delicate Arch Trail were created by the Ute tribe and are some of the most well-known in the area. These petroglyphs are easily accessible and can be seen by anyone who visits the trail. On the other hand, the petroglyphs along the river on Potash Road and Moonflower Canyon were created by the Anasazi tribe and are a bit more difficult to find. These petroglyphs are more abstract and are thought to be associated with the Anasazi’s religious beliefs. Although harder to locate, they are definitely worth the effort.

Exploring the Petroglyphs

When visiting the petroglyphs in the Moab area, it is important to remember that they are fragile and should be treated with respect. Visitors should avoid touching or climbing on the rocks, as this can damage the petroglyphs. Additionally, visitors should be aware of the impact that they have on the environment and should take steps to minimize their impact while exploring the area.