Petroglyph Canyon Trail
Discover ancient rock art and desert beauty on this moderate hike in Sloan Canyon, Nevada.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, cooler temps
Petroglyph Canyon Trail
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover ancient rock art and desert beauty on this moderate hike in Sloan Canyon, Nevada.
"A moderate hike with petroglyphs everywhere at the top of the dry falls!"
💧 Bring LOTS of Water!
Crucial for this desert hike. Sunscreen is a must too!
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
Loose rock and some climbing sections require good grip.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient Petroglyphs
Top of dry falls
Discover nearly 1,700 ancient rock carvings, a glimpse into the past.
Desert Flora & Fauna
Throughout the trail
Spot vibrant wildflowers, cacti, lizards, and even bighorn sheep.
Scenic Views
Various viewpoints
Enjoy the rugged beauty of the desert landscape and unique rock formations.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Hydration & Safety First
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Bring LOTS of Water!
Crucial for this desert hike. Sunscreen is a must too!
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
Loose rock and some climbing sections require good grip.
🐍 Watch for Wildlife
Spotted rattlesnakes are a possibility. Stay aware of your surroundings.
🗺️ Trail Navigation
Keep going past initial spots to find the main petroglyph areas.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Bring LOTS of Water!
Crucial for this desert hike. Sunscreen is a must too!
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
Loose rock and some climbing sections require good grip.
🐍 Watch for Wildlife
Spotted rattlesnakes are a possibility. Stay aware of your surroundings.
🗺️ Trail Navigation
Keep going past initial spots to find the main petroglyph areas.
🚗 Parking Lot Construction
Be prepared for detours or extra walking from alternative access.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Petroglyph Canyon Trail to be a rewarding hike, especially for its ancient petroglyphs and desert scenery. While some find the trail itself less engaging until the end, the historical carvings and potential for wildlife sightings are significant draws. Be prepared for the desert heat and potential construction impacts.
"Really cool trail. Lots of cool plants and wildlife. We took about 3 hours because of stopping, smelling flowers, taking lots of pics. But if youre planning on a quick walk, it could be about a 1-2 hr hike."
Keith Watts
"Moderate out and back hike with petroglyphs (everywhere) at the top of the dry falls! *note top as you have to climb a bit to see them, but well worth it.
Most of this trail is wide with loose rock. Great spring hike with orange and yellow flowers, cactus, and variety of rock formations. Some lizard and bird activity too.
Trail is pretty well marked, but if you're looking for the petroglyphs, keep going past the first couple of spots where it almost seems to end. You'll know when you reach the spot as it's about 30-50 minutes in pending speed and the narrowest/highest section of dry falls.
To see the petroglyphs there are some spots at the end - 3 or 4 - that require the ability to climb.
Keep your eyes peeled for spotted rattle snakes and make sure to be aware of the weather as a flash flood in the area would be incredibly dangerous and likely deadly.
Free parking, small building (didn't go in), 3 spot-a-pots with hand washing station.
Enjoy the hike!"
Adam Van Bavel
"Nevada is not all about The Strip! Our curiosity to find what's around lead most of our recent hikes in the desert parts of the state. With 27 state parks, 2 national parks and plenty of national recreation areas, we're always looking for something different to see.
•Located in Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area. A geological, scenic and tranquil trail to lose yourself for a few hours in every Nevadan's backyard at no cost."
Claudine M.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trail is located in the Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area. While some mention construction impacting the usual parking lot, check for alternative access points. It's a drive from the Las Vegas Strip, so plan accordingly.
Public transportation options are very limited for this desert location. It's best to have your own vehicle or arrange a ride.
Historically, there's been free parking, but recent TikToks mention ongoing construction that may affect access and require adjustments. There are usually a few porta-potties with handwashing stations available.
While both are popular hiking areas near Las Vegas, the Petroglyph Wall Trail is specifically within Red Rock Canyon, whereas Petroglyph Canyon Trail is in Sloan Canyon. They are distinct locations.
Some sources mention Valley of Fire State Park (which has petroglyphs) as dog-friendly. However, specific regulations for Petroglyph Canyon Trail should be verified with the managing authority (BLM) to ensure compliance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Petroglyph Canyon Trail in Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area is generally free to access.
As an outdoor trail, it's typically accessible during daylight hours. However, it's advisable to check with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for any specific restrictions or recommended visiting times, especially considering the desert heat.
No advance booking or tickets are required for this free trail.
Generally, no special permits are needed for day hiking on the Petroglyph Canyon Trail.
Visiting at night is not recommended due to safety concerns, lack of lighting, and potential wildlife encounters. Stick to daylight hours for your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The hike can take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours, depending on your pace and how much time you spend admiring the petroglyphs and scenery.
It's generally considered a moderate out-and-back hike. There are sections with loose rock and some scrambling required to see the petroglyphs at the top of dry falls.
You'll find petroglyphs in several spots, but to see the main concentration, you need to continue past the initial areas and climb a bit at the dry falls. Keep your eyes peeled!
Unfortunately, there is virtually no shade on this trail, making it essential to hike during cooler parts of the day and stay hydrated.
Expect to see desert flora like cacti and wildflowers, as well as lizards and birds. Some visitors have also spotted bighorn sheep. Be cautious of rattlesnakes.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, creating dramatic shadows and highlighting the desert landscape.
Drone usage is often restricted in protected areas like National Conservation Areas. It's crucial to check BLM regulations regarding drone operation before flying.
The areas with the petroglyphs themselves offer the most compelling photographic opportunities. The surrounding desert vistas are also quite scenic.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast desert landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions.
Yes, photographing the petroglyphs is generally accepted, but it's important to do so respectfully. Avoid touching them and be mindful of the historical significance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of the Petroglyphs
Exploring these ancient markings is a profound experience. It's important to remember that these are not just drawings but sacred artifacts. While social media creators capture the visual appeal, the true value lies in their historical and cultural importance. Visitors are encouraged to observe respectfully and avoid touching the rock art to ensure its preservation for future generations. The virtual experience created by CyArk offers a way to explore these sites digitally, further emphasizing their significance.
Navigating the Trail and Safety
Safety is paramount on this desert trail. There is virtually no shade, so carrying ample water (more than you think you'll need) and applying sunscreen is non-negotiable. Be aware of your surroundings, as wildlife such as rattlesnakes can be present. Additionally, flash floods are a serious risk in desert canyons, so always check the weather forecast and be prepared to turn back if conditions become dangerous. Some recent visitors have noted construction impacting the parking lot, so be prepared for potential detours or longer approaches.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit