Anasazi Ridge Petroglyphs
Discover ancient rock art and a hidden cliff dwelling etched into stone, offering a mystical glimpse into the lives of the Ancestral Puebloans.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Anasazi Ridge Petroglyphs
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover ancient rock art and a hidden cliff dwelling etched into stone, offering a mystical glimpse into the lives of the Ancestral Puebloans.
"This place had soooo many cool ancient petroglyphs...it is just beautiful."
💧 Bring Plenty of Water!
No shade on trails. Stay hydrated and bring cooling gear. Essential for exploring this mystical site.
📍 Exact Coordinates are Key
The entrance can be tricky. Use exact coordinates to find the right spot.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient Petroglyphs
Various cliff faces
Discover intricate carvings of animals, people, and symbols etched into stone by ancient peoples.
Hidden Cliff Dwelling
Past RV parking
Uncover a fascinating ancient village nestled amongst the rocks, offering a glimpse into past lives.
Summer Solstice Alignment
Anasazi Trail
Witness the sun's alignment on the Summer Solstice, revealing ancient secrets etched in stone.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Finding the Hidden Village
Navigating the Trails
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Bring Plenty of Water!
No shade on trails. Stay hydrated and bring cooling gear. Essential for exploring this mystical site.
📍 Exact Coordinates are Key
The entrance can be tricky. Use exact coordinates to find the right spot.
🚶♀️ Choose Your Path Wisely
Smooth switchbacks or steeper cliff-edge path? Pick what suits your adventure level.
☀️ Solstice Magic
Visit on the Summer Solstice to see the sun reveal ancient secrets.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Bring Plenty of Water!
No shade on trails. Stay hydrated and bring cooling gear. Essential for exploring this mystical site.
📍 Exact Coordinates are Key
The entrance can be tricky. Use exact coordinates to find the right spot.
🚶♀️ Choose Your Path Wisely
Smooth switchbacks or steeper cliff-edge path? Pick what suits your adventure level.
☀️ Solstice Magic
Visit on the Summer Solstice to see the sun reveal ancient secrets.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the abundance of well-preserved petroglyphs and the intriguing hidden cliff dwelling. The trails are generally well-maintained, though the lack of shade and the potential difficulty in finding the exact entrance are noted drawbacks. Many find the site mystical and a rewarding experience for those prepared with water and sun protection.
"An absolute must experience! This site is extremely well maintained. The switchback path to the petroglyphs is smooth (tiny gravel) and wide so is great for walking on. We chose to take the path that hugs along the cliff edge. It’s a lot faster, but steeper too. We had a lot of fun climbing around the boulders, looking for the drawings. We were puzzled about where the Anasazi house was that others had pictured. After going to this site three times, we finally found it by accident. If you drive just past the RV/overflow parking, you will find a little village. And shade! It was very interesting."
Julianne Eyre
"Great place to spend the afternoon exploring. No shade but can be breezy at the top."
Mike P.
"The exact location was hard to find; that is why I created this pin so you can find the right place. The entrance is tricky and not identified but if you follow this exact coordinates, you will find it! 💪🏽 Please be prepared, bring water and cooling gear! Stay safe and hydrated! The place is amazing and mystical! I am in love with these lands. 🤍"
Lourdes Zoe Sorando
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Finding the exact location can be challenging as the entrance isn't clearly marked. Travelers recommend using specific coordinates to pinpoint the entrance. The first parking lot is the main entrance, while the second lot is for overflow and RV parking.
Public transportation options are very limited for remote sites like Anasazi Ridge. It is highly recommended to have your own vehicle for access.
There are two main paths: a smooth, wide switchback trail suitable for most, and a steeper, faster path along the cliff edge. Both offer opportunities to explore and find petroglyphs.
The entrance is not well-identified, and some reviews mention a 'No overnight camping' sign. Relying on GPS coordinates is advised for finding the correct access point.
You can drive to the parking areas near the trailhead. From there, it's a hike to reach the petroglyph sites and the hidden cliff dwelling.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no mention of admission fees or tickets required for Anasazi Ridge Petroglyphs in traveler reviews. It appears to be a free-to-access natural site.
Specific operating hours are not listed, but it's generally advisable to visit during daylight hours for safety and visibility. The Summer Solstice is noted for a special alignment.
Based on available information, there is no entrance fee to visit Anasazi Ridge Petroglyphs.
While there are no official hours, visiting during daylight is recommended. The Summer Solstice offers a unique viewing opportunity.
Respect the ancient site and avoid touching or damaging the petroglyphs. Be prepared for the environment, as there is no shade and it can be hot.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors can expect to see a variety of ancient carvings, including depictions of animals like goats, human figures, and interesting geometric swirls.
The main switchback trail is described as smooth and wide, making it accessible. The cliff-edge path is steeper and faster, requiring more agility.
There is very little to no shade on the main trails. It's crucial to bring water and cooling gear to stay comfortable and safe.
Most visitors spend an afternoon exploring the petroglyphs and the hidden cliff dwelling. Allow ample time to wander and discover.
Yes, climbing around the boulders is part of the experience for many visitors, allowing for closer inspection of the petroglyphs.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon light can offer softer shadows and highlight the textures of the petroglyphs. The Summer Solstice alignment is a unique photographic event.
No specific restrictions are mentioned, but it's important to be respectful of the historical site. Avoid using flash directly on ancient carvings if it could cause damage.
Capture close-ups of the intricate carvings, wider shots of the petroglyphs against the landscape, and the hidden cliff dwelling. The scale of the site offers diverse photographic opportunities.
The petroglyphs are etched into the rock, so lighting and angles are key. Exploring different viewpoints will help you capture them effectively.
Drone usage regulations can vary by location and are often restricted in protected historical or natural areas. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider the steeper cliff-edge path for older, more adventurous children, but supervise them closely. The opportunity to climb around boulders adds an element of fun. Make it a learning experience by talking about the people who lived there and the stories the petroglyphs might tell.
🚶♀️ Solo Adventurers & Hikers
Bring sufficient water and sun protection, as the trails are exposed. The Summer Solstice alignment is a unique event that solo travelers might find particularly fascinating to witness. The mystical atmosphere of the site is perfect for those seeking a personal connection with history and nature.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mystery of the Anasazi
Exploring Anasazi Ridge is an opportunity to step back in time and ponder the lives of those who once thrived in this arid landscape. The discovery of a hidden cliff dwelling adds another layer to the experience, providing a glimpse into their domestic lives and architectural ingenuity. Understanding the context of these ancient sites enhances the appreciation for the skill and knowledge of the Ancestral Puebloans.
It's important to remember that these sites are fragile and irreplaceable. Visitors are encouraged to observe with respect, avoid touching the petroglyphs, and leave no trace behind. This ensures that future generations can also marvel at these ancient wonders.
Navigating the Terrain and Staying Prepared
Crucially, the site offers minimal to no shade, making preparation paramount, especially during warmer months. Travelers strongly advise bringing ample water and cooling gear to combat the heat and prevent dehydration. The possibility of strong breezes at the top can be deceiving, so staying hydrated is key.
Finding the exact location can be a hurdle, as the entrance is not always obvious. Many visitors recommend using precise GPS coordinates to locate the correct access point. The main parking lot serves as the primary entrance, with an overflow and RV parking area located further along.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit