
Little Black Mountain Petroglyph Site
Discover ancient petroglyphs etched into desert boulders, offering a glimpse into the past. Requires off-road driving.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for exploring

Little Black Mountain Petroglyph Site
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for exploring

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover ancient petroglyphs etched into desert boulders, offering a glimpse into the past. Requires off-road driving.
"A truly unique site with ancient art, but be prepared for a bumpy ride to get there!"

🚗 High-Clearance Vehicle Needed
A 4WD or high-clearance SUV is essential for the bumpy, rutted dirt road.
🚫 Don't Touch the Art
Preserve these ancient petroglyphs; touching can cause irreparable damage.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ancient Rock Art Panels
Throughout the site
Discover intricate petroglyphs etched into boulders, depicting animals, human figures, and abstract symbols.

Scenic Desert Landscape
Surrounding the site
Enjoy the vast, rugged beauty of the Arizona desert, with stunning views and unique geological formations.

Picnic and Restroom Facilities
Trailhead area
A covered picnic table and a pit toilet are available, offering basic amenities for visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Off-Road Access is Key
Respect the Ancient Art
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 High-Clearance Vehicle Needed
A 4WD or high-clearance SUV is essential for the bumpy, rutted dirt road.
🚫 Don't Touch the Art
Preserve these ancient petroglyphs; touching can cause irreparable damage.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The desert sun is intense. Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Cell service can be spotty. Ensure you have directions saved before you go.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 High-Clearance Vehicle Needed
A 4WD or high-clearance SUV is essential for the bumpy, rutted dirt road.
🚫 Don't Touch the Art
Preserve these ancient petroglyphs; touching can cause irreparable damage.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The desert sun is intense. Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Cell service can be spotty. Ensure you have directions saved before you go.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
The terrain can be uneven; wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Little Black Mountain Petroglyph Site for its fascinating ancient rock art and beautiful desert scenery. The remote location offers a sense of solitude, and the available picnic and restroom facilities are appreciated. However, the challenging off-road access road is a significant consideration, requiring a high-clearance vehicle and careful driving.
"Beautiful site, the ride in is a bit tough if you're not used to off road, no problem for us. Covered table and restroom provided. You will be alone and a few miles on a sand/gravel road. Google provided directions not great. Just pick your way to it."
Michael Pippin
"The road starts nice but gets rougher past the mine entrance - look for the dark sign on the left. Good tires and some ground clearance are useful.
There are several nice panels but they seem to have preferred the tops of boulders. Picnic table and pit toilet are available."
Roger McMillan (RIMc615)
"This place with petroglyphs may be nice, but you have to drive about 10 minutes off-road, if you are ready, then it is fine."
Svetlana Salnikova
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Accessing the site involves driving off-road for several miles on a sand and gravel road that can be rough and rutted. A high-clearance vehicle, like an SUV or 4WD, is strongly recommended. Some users have noted that Google Maps directions can be unreliable, so it's best to pick your way to the site and look for a dark sign on the left past the mine entrance.
No, the road is unpaved and consists of sand, gravel, and ruts. It requires careful navigation and a vehicle capable of handling off-road conditions.
A high-clearance vehicle, such as an SUV or a 4WD, is ideal. Sedans and even some 2WD cars may struggle with the terrain.
Yes, keep an eye out for a dark sign on the left side of the road after passing the mine entrance. This indicates you are on the right track.
The off-road portion of the drive can take about 10 minutes, depending on your vehicle and driving speed.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee to visit the Little Black Mountain Petroglyph Site. It is a free public access area.
The site is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no specific posted operating hours, but it's best to visit when there is ample natural light for viewing the petroglyphs.
No advance booking is required. You can visit the site at your leisure, though it's advisable to check weather conditions beforehand.
The primary restriction is to not touch or deface the petroglyphs. Visitors are encouraged to stay on marked paths and respect the cultural significance of the site.
Visiting at night is not recommended due to the lack of lighting and the potential for difficult navigation on the unpaved road. It's best to visit during daylight hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The walk from the parking area to the petroglyphs is relatively short, about a quarter of a mile. The terrain is generally easy to navigate, though it's advisable to wear sturdy shoes.
The site features numerous petroglyphs spread across both the east and west sides of the area. Many are located on the tops of boulders.
Yes, there are informative signs that help visitors understand the history and significance of the petroglyphs.
Yes, children can enjoy exploring the drawings and trying to interpret the petroglyphs. However, parents should supervise them closely, especially on the bumpy road.
There is a covered picnic table and a pit toilet available at the trailhead.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon light often provides the best contrast and highlights the etchings on the rock. Avoid harsh midday sun, which can wash out details.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, it's crucial to avoid using flash photography directly on the petroglyphs, as it can potentially damage them over time.
A camera with good low-light capabilities and a versatile lens would be beneficial. Consider a tripod for stable shots in varying light conditions.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for specific rules regarding drone operation in this area to avoid any potential issues.
Include a person or a recognizable object in your shot to give a sense of scale. This helps viewers appreciate the size and detail of the ancient artwork.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Off-Road Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Off-Road Journey
For those with the right vehicle, the drive is considered part of the overall experience and is often described as worth the effort. The presence of side-by-sides and motorbikes on the route indicates its popularity for off-road enthusiasts, but visitors in cars should be mindful of oncoming traffic and proceed with caution. The journey, while demanding, leads to a rewarding destination, offering a sense of discovery and solitude.
Understanding the Petroglyphs
While the exact meanings of many petroglyphs remain a mystery, their presence offers a tangible connection to the past. Informative signs at the site can provide context and help visitors appreciate the artistry and cultural importance of these ancient markings. The sheer number and variety of petroglyphs found here make it a fascinating destination for anyone interested in archaeology, history, or Native American cultures. The remote location often means visitors can experience the site in relative solitude, enhancing the contemplative nature of the visit.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit