Courthouse Wash Rock Art - Image 1
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Courthouse Wash Rock Art

4.6
·67 reviews·Moab, United States

Ancient petroglyphs etched into sandstone cliffs along the scenic Potash Road, offering a glimpse into ancestral Puebloan history.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring and Fall mornings

Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Courthouse Wash Rock Art - Image 1

Courthouse Wash Rock Art

Best Time

Spring and Fall mornings

Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ancient petroglyphs etched into sandstone cliffs along the scenic Potash Road, offering a glimpse into ancestral Puebloan history.

4.6
(67 reviews)

"Great place to see Petroglyphs and Pictographs. It’s an easy walk up to the info board, but from there lost the trail and went straight up towards the cliff which required a little scrambling."

Vertical photo
TIP

Sturdy Footwear is Key

Wear good hiking shoes for the scramble up to the petroglyphs. :athletic_shoe:

Follow the Trail (Carefully)

The main trail goes left around a big boulder from the info board. :world_map:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Great Gallery

The Great Gallery

Courthouse Wash

Marvel at the intricate petroglyphs etched into the sandstone, depicting ancient stories and symbols.

Scenic Potash Road Drive

Scenic Potash Road Drive

UT-279

Enjoy a breathtaking drive alongside the Colorado River, with towering red rock cliffs and stunning desert vistas.

Climbing to the Panels

Climbing to the Panels

Above Courthouse Wash

Experience a bit of adventure by scrambling up the rocks for a closer look at the detailed ancient artwork.

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Planning Your Visit

Accessing the Ancient Art

The Courthouse Wash Rock Art is easily accessible via Potash Road (UT-279) from Moab. While some petroglyphs are visible near the road, reaching the main panels involves a short, steep scramble. Wear sturdy shoes and be mindful of the terrain.

Respecting the Site

These ancient petroglyphs are a sacred cultural site. Visitors are urged not to touch, deface, or disturb the rock art. Stay on marked paths where available and pack out everything you pack in to preserve this historical treasure for future generations.

Best Times

When
Spring and Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Golden hour light on rocks
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🚘The Most Epic Road in Moab, Utah Have you ever been to Moab's Potash Road where you drive alongside towering red rock cliffs?! This scenic drive is a hidden gem that winds through stunning desert landscapes and ancient petroglyphs etched into stone. Known for its breathtaking views of the Colorado River and its access to iconic hiking and climbing spots, Potash Road is a must-see for adventurers...
@thespinningatlas
123K likes • 1.9M views

Sturdy Footwear is Key

Wear good hiking shoes for the scramble up to the petroglyphs. :athletic_shoe: Reddit

Follow the Trail (Carefully)

The main trail goes left around a big boulder from the info board. :world_map: Reddit

They carved their dream home straight into a mountain… and you still can’t see the inside unless you take the tour 👀 Would you go in? #roadsideattraction #HiddenGems #AmericanRoadtrip #MoabUtah #bucketlist
@ramblin.sunshinee
71.7K likes • 501K views
These were definitely unexpected. What do you think it means or is showing? #rockart #petroglyphs #pictographs #moab #archeology #indigenous
@toadmoto
44.7K likes • 414.5K views

Respect the Art

Never touch or disturb the ancient petroglyphs. :pray: Reddit

Easy Access Near Road

Some petroglyphs are visible right by the road, making it a quick stop. :car: Reddit

📍Dead Horse Point is a MUST see if you are in Moab. Tips: • Go for sunrise or sunset for the best views • Best vantage point is right below the lookout area, walk down the rocky area to get there •Bring your tripod to set up to get photos, it’s a flat area so it’s perfect! @bsweezy89 #hiketok #fyp #deadhorsepoint #moab #moabutah
@pearlandhergirls
38.6K likes • 219.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Sturdy Footwear is Key

Wear good hiking shoes for the scramble up to the petroglyphs. :athletic_shoe: Reddit

Follow the Trail (Carefully)

The main trail goes left around a big boulder from the info board. :world_map: Reddit

Respect the Art

Never touch or disturb the ancient petroglyphs. :pray: Reddit

Easy Access Near Road

Some petroglyphs are visible right by the road, making it a quick stop. :car: Reddit

Capture the Views

Bring your camera for the stunning desert landscapes and the Colorado River. :camerawithflash:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(67 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the accessibility and historical significance of Courthouse Wash Rock Art, with many appreciating the petroglyphs visible right near the road. The scenic drive along Potash Road is also a major highlight. Some find the scramble to the main panels challenging but rewarding, though directions can be confusing for some.

"Here is out of Arches National Park.
No entry fee.
We could park free parking.
From the parking, little walking on the bike road, and little steep unpaved way soon you could see the wall painting.
We could access very close."

Ken MAEDA

"Great place to see Petroglyphs and Pictographs. It’s an easy walk up to the info board, but from there lost the trail and went straight up towards the cliff which required a little scrambling. Found the trail on the way down - from info board it goes left around big boulder."

Rob Bolton

"Petroglyphs right by the road! Free parking! Make the stop if you’re going through Moab."

Kent 19

What People Like

Petroglyphs near road
Scenic Potash Road drive
Free admission

What People Dislike

Confusing trail directions
Steep scramble required

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Courthouse Wash Rock Art is located off Potash Road (UT-279), a scenic drive north of Moab. It's about a 15-20 minute drive from town. Many visitors find it convenient to stop here while driving the Potash Road for other sights. TikTokReddit

Potash Road is a paved scenic byway for most of its length, making it accessible for most vehicles. The drive itself offers stunning views of the Colorado River and red rock formations. TikTok

While some petroglyphs are visible near the road, the main panels require a short hike and scramble. There is a parking area, and from there, you'll walk a bit on a bike path before heading towards the cliffs. Reddit

For the best light on the rock art and surrounding landscapes, aim for early morning or late afternoon. The golden hour can create dramatic shadows and highlight the textures of the sandstone. TikTok

Potash Road is generally suitable for RVs, but be aware of narrow sections and potential pull-offs. The parking area at Courthouse Wash is relatively small. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no entrance fee to visit Courthouse Wash Rock Art. It's a free public access area, making it a great budget-friendly stop in the Moab area. Reddit

Courthouse Wash Rock Art is accessible year-round, dawn to dusk. There are no official operating hours as it's an open natural site. TikTok

No advance booking is required. As it's a free and open site, you can visit anytime. However, parking can fill up during peak seasons. Reddit

The primary restriction is to respect the cultural significance of the site. Do not touch, climb on, or disturb the petroglyphs. Stay on designated paths where possible. Reddit

There isn't a dedicated visitor center directly at Courthouse Wash. Information boards are often present near the trailhead, and the Moab Information Center can provide further details. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can see some petroglyphs near the road in about 15-30 minutes. To reach the main panels and explore, allow 1-2 hours, including the scramble and time to appreciate the art. Reddit

The initial walk is easy, but reaching the main petroglyph panels involves a short, steep scramble over rocks. It's moderately challenging and requires good balance. Reddit+1

Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes with good grip for the scramble. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended, especially during warmer months. Sun protection (hat, sunscreen) is essential. :athletic_shoe: TikTok

Restroom facilities are typically limited or non-existent at this specific site. It's advisable to use facilities in Moab before you depart or at designated rest stops along Potash Road. :toilet:

Absolutely not. Touching the petroglyphs can cause irreparable damage. They are ancient and fragile. Admire them from a respectful distance. :noentrysign: Reddit

📸 📸 Photography Tips

Experiment with different angles, especially during golden hour when the low sun casts long shadows, highlighting the carvings. Try to capture the scale by including the surrounding rock formations. :camerawithflash: TikTok

Yes, once you've safely scrambled up, you can get relatively close for detailed shots. However, maintain a safe distance to avoid accidental contact. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast desert landscapes and the petroglyphs in context. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating specific figures. A tripod can help with low-light conditions. :camerawithflash:

Drone usage is generally restricted in national parks and sensitive cultural sites. Check current regulations for the specific area, but it's often prohibited to protect the environment and cultural artifacts. :drone:

Use a tripod to stabilize your shots and avoid touching the rock. Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid leaning on or brushing against the cliff face. :camerawithflash:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Courthouse Wash Rock Art can be a fascinating stop for families, offering a tangible connection to ancient history. While the main petroglyph panels require a bit of scrambling, some art is visible closer to the road, making it accessible for younger children. Reddit Ensure children wear appropriate footwear and are supervised closely during the climb. The drive along Potash Road itself is also visually engaging for kids, with the river and cliffs providing plenty to look at. TikTok

Pack plenty of water and snacks, as amenities are scarce. Emphasize the importance of respecting the site by not touching the rock art. This can be a great opportunity to teach children about archaeology, indigenous cultures, and the importance of preservation. Reddit

🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers

Courthouse Wash Rock Art is an ideal stop for anyone on a road trip through Utah or taking a day trip from Moab. Its location directly off the scenic Potash Road makes it an easy and rewarding detour. You can easily incorporate it into a larger itinerary that includes Arches National Park or Canyonlands National Park. TikTok

Even if you have limited time, you can still appreciate some of the petroglyphs visible near the parking area. For those with a bit more time, the short scramble offers a more immersive experience. It's a perfect spot for a quick photo opportunity and a dose of ancient history without requiring a full day commitment. Reddit

🧗‍♀️ Outdoor Enthusiasts & Climbers

For outdoor enthusiasts, Courthouse Wash is part of the larger adventure playground that is Moab. The Potash Road itself is a gateway to numerous climbing routes and hiking trails. While the rock art is the primary draw for many, the surrounding landscape offers opportunities for exploration. TikTok

If you're interested in climbing, this area provides access to various crags. Even if climbing isn't your focus, the scenic drive and the chance to see ancient art add another layer to your outdoor experience. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles and be aware of your surroundings, especially if you venture off the main path. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Significance of Courthouse Wash Rock Art

The petroglyphs at Courthouse Wash are remnants of the ancestral Puebloan people, who inhabited this region for centuries. These carvings, created by pecking away the dark outer layer of rock to reveal the lighter stone beneath, are believed to hold deep cultural and spiritual significance. They may represent historical events, astronomical observations, spiritual beliefs, or even clan symbols. The sheer artistry and preservation of these ancient messages offer a profound connection to the past. TikTok

Visiting this site is a privilege, offering a glimpse into the lives and worldviews of the people who called this desert home long before modern settlement. It's crucial to remember that these are not mere decorations but sacred artifacts. The presence of these petroglyphs underscores the importance of respecting indigenous heritage and preserving these irreplaceable cultural resources for future generations. TikTok

When you visit, take a moment to contemplate the hands that created these images and the stories they might tell. The act of observing them respectfully is a way of honoring their creators and ensuring their legacy endures. TikTok

Navigating the Scramble and Trail

Reaching the main concentration of petroglyphs at Courthouse Wash involves a short but steep scramble. From the parking area, you'll follow a path that initially feels like a bike trail. Soon, you'll need to leave this path and head towards the base of the cliffs. Reddit+1

Many visitors report getting a bit lost trying to find the best route up. A key tip from experienced visitors is that the trail to the main panels goes left around a large boulder from the information board. Once you're near the petroglyphs, be cautious as some are lower down, and it's easy to accidentally touch them while looking at those above. Reddit+1

Wear sturdy shoes with good grip, as the terrain can be loose and uneven. Take your time, assess your footing, and enjoy the small adventure of reaching these ancient artworks. The view looking back over the road and valley from the top is also a rewarding bonus. Reddit

The Scenic Drive on Potash Road (UT-279)

The drive along Potash Road (UT-279) to Courthouse Wash is an attraction in itself. This scenic byway winds alongside the mighty Colorado River, with towering red rock cliffs on one side and the vibrant blue water on the other. It's a popular route for cyclists and drivers alike, offering breathtaking vistas at every turn. TikTok

Along this road, you'll also find other points of interest, including dinosaur tracks and various rock climbing access points. The sheer scale of the landscape is awe-inspiring, making it a perfect route for a leisurely drive or a dedicated road trip. Many visitors recommend this drive as a must-do when in the Moab area. TikTok

Consider stopping at various pull-offs to soak in the scenery, take photos, or simply enjoy the tranquility of the desert environment. The road is well-maintained, making it accessible for most vehicles, including RVs, though some sections can be narrow. TikTok

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