Petroglyph National Monument

One of the largest petroglyph sites in North America features designs and symbols carved onto volcanic rocks by Native American and Spanish settlers 400 to 700 years ago. This valuable record of cultural expression holds profound spiritual significance for many Indigenous peoples and descendants of early Spanish settlers.

Western Trail NW
Albuquerque, NM 87120
United States

Get directions

505-899-0205

More about this park

Shop online store

1 of

Discover Petroglyph National Monument

Petroglyph National Monument is a remarkable cultural and natural treasure, preserving one of the largest collections of ancient rock carvings in North America. Located on the outskirts of Albuquerque, New Mexico, this landscape of volcanic rock features more than 24 thousand petroglyphs created by Indigenous peoples and early Spanish settlers. The monument’s scenic trails take visitors past these centuries-old images, offering a glimpse into the stories, beliefs, and histories of those who once lived in the region. With its mix of culture, geology, and stunning desert vistas, Petroglyph National Monument is a must-visit destination for history and nature enthusiasts alike.

Explore Petroglyph National Monument

Visit Petroglyph National Monument and experience a profound cultural connection at one of the largest petroglyph sites in North America. The park, located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, preserves more than 20 thousand petroglyphs that were carved into the basalt rock by the ancestral Puebloans and their descendants, the Diné, and the Apache, as well as the early Spanish settlers. Hike a variety of trails, bike through Boca Negra Canyon, participate in Ranger-led programs for all ages, experience cultural demonstrations, and so much more at Petroglyph National Monument.

Rock with ancient carvings under blue sky, desert landscape.

Sunset over New Mexico with a cloudy sky.

7 days in New Mexico's landscapes

Travel through time on this seven-day road trip through northern New Mexico’s stunning landscapes and cultural heritage sites.

Explore

Visit smart

Hike the Boca Negra Canyon Trail

This short but rewarding trail provides close-up views of dozens of petroglyphs with minimal effort.

Explore Rinconada Canyon

A longer, more secluded hike, this 2.2-mile trail offers a chance to see hundreds of petroglyphs along basalt cliffs.

Visit early or late in the day

The desert heat can be intense, so plan your visit in the morning or evening for cooler temperatures and softer light for photos.

Respect the petroglyphs

These carvings are sacred to many Indigenous communities, so avoid touching or damaging them to help preserve their cultural significance.

1 of

Upcoming events

See all events

Guided Hike: Piedras Marcadas Canyon

May 15 10:00 am – 11:30 am

Join us for a hike at Piedras Marcadas Canyon! These weekly hikes focus on the history, the geology, and the petroglyphs along this 1.9 mile hike. Binoculars are recommended. Bring water, sunscreen, warm layers, and comfortable shoes for a flat...

Guided Hike: Rinconada Canyon

May 17 9:00 am – 11:00 am

This volunteer-led hike will take you on the 2.2 mile loop-trail into Rinconada Canyon, where you will learn about the history of the area - from the geology that shaped it to the Ancestral Puebloans and Spaniards that left their marks behind to the...

Mysterious Explorer: Solving the Puzzle of an African Explorer in America - 180 Years Before Columbus

May 17 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Dr. Ronald Stewart will talk about his groundbreaking, but controversial, research into a previously unknown 14 th century explorer of New Mexico and the American Southwest by the name of Abu Bakr II. He is known to have given up the emperorship of...