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Petroglyph National Monument, Albuquerque

4.4

#1 of 22 in Parks in Albuquerque

Geologic Formation · National Park

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Stretching 27 km (17 mi) along the West Mesa, Petroglyph National Monument is one of the largest petroglyph sites in North America. It is home to thousands upon thousands of petroglyphs carved in volcanic rocks by Native Americans and Spanish settlers 400 to 700 years ago. The carvings are all outside and can be accessed via walking trails. Begin your trip at the visitor center, where staff will advise you on what walks are best-suited for you, as they vary in length and difficulty. Each route reveals an array of petroglyphs and the park's impressive natural features. The trails are not paved, so wear appropirate shoes. Put Petroglyph National Monument and other Albuquerque attractions into our Albuquerque online itinerary planner, and watch your holiday take shape.

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Petroglyph National Monument reviews

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TripAdvisor traveler rating

1,970 reviews

Google

4.6

By Icarus4335

Lots of petroglyphs, especially along the Rinconada Canyon Trail. We went earlier in the morning and were able to see probably close to 100 different petroglyphs. It is free to enter, so definitely.... more

Lots of petroglyphs, especially along the Rinconada Canyon Trail. We went earlier in the morning and were able to see probably close to 100 different petroglyphs. It is free to enter, so definitely.... more »
By kpbooth3

Nice loop trail. Plenty of parking at trailhead. Definitely need some patience as the first quarter mile we didn’t see anything but then we started seeing them abundance. A few repeated pictures...

Nice loop trail. Plenty of parking at trailhead. Definitely need some patience as the first quarter mile we didn’t see anything but then we started seeing them abundance. A few repeated pictures... more »

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Google

By Brian Copes

It was cool view and it was really hot, but that’s New Mexico especially in the summer. National park service worker was really helpful with guiding my boyfriend and I to the monuments. Only went to one that was closest to the visitor center. It was an easy hike up but at the top it’s a bit steep. It was cool to see them and get a glimpse of history. I would recommend this monument!

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By LeeAnna McDaniel

When you arrive at the visitors center, you are given a map and a video is showing to give you background on the locations. There are three locations; all a few miles drive from the visitors center. We chose the first canyon due to time constraints. It was the most strenuous of the three according to the brochures. And a $1 parking fee. We climbed our way to the top on rugged paths. Not for flip flops for sure. Gravel paths with steep inclines, steps, and some places you have to step over large rocks. But worth the view at the top and the amazing petroglyphs along the way! We spent about 2 hours and only saw a fraction of the vast canyon. Definitely recommend!

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