Petroglyph Point Trail, Mesa Verde National Park Travel Guide

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Explore ancient rock art and stunning canyon views on the Petroglyph Point Trail in Mesa Verde National Park. A journey through time!

Hike the Petroglyph Point Trail in Mesa Verde National Park for a glimpse into the lives of the Ancestral Pueblo people. This 2.4-mile loop takes you past the park's largest petroglyph panel, featuring fascinating rock carvings and stunning canyon views.

A brief summary to Petroglyph Point Trail

Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado, 81330, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Petroglyph Point Trail.

Register for the hike at the trailhead or Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum before starting.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water, as the trail is rocky and can be strenuous.
Take a trail guide from the registration box to learn about the petroglyphs and the history of the area.
Be aware that the gate at the trailhead locks each evening, so check with a ranger for current times.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Spruce Tree House

Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum

Cliff Palace

Balcony House

Square Tower House

Explore Petroglyph Point Trail on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Petroglyph Point Trail, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

To reach the Petroglyph Point Trail, drive to Mesa Verde National Park. From the park entrance, it's approximately a 45-minute drive along a steep, narrow, and winding road to the Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum. Park in the designated parking area near the museum. The trailhead is located below the museum, along the paved path to Spruce Tree House. Note that trailers and towed vehicles are not permitted beyond Morefield Campground and can be parked in the large parking lot near the entrance station.
Walking

From the Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum, follow the paved path towards Spruce Tree House. Just before reaching Spruce Tree House, branch off onto the trail to the right, which leads to Petroglyph Point. The trail is well-marked, but be prepared for some steep and rocky sections.

Discover more about Petroglyph Point Trail

The Petroglyph Point Trail in Mesa Verde National Park offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and connect with the ancient cultures that once thrived in this region. This 2.4-mile loop trail leads you to one of the most significant rock art sites in the park, showcasing the written language and stories of the Ancestral Pueblo people.The trail begins near the Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum, following a path that descends into Spruce Canyon. As you hike, you'll traverse varied terrain, including rocky slopes, narrow passages, and uneven stone staircases. The trail winds along the canyon wall, passing small, ancient dwellings and offering panoramic views of Spruce and Navajo Canyons.At the heart of the trail lies the petroglyph panel, a remarkable display of Ancestral Puebloan rock art. Stretching over 35 feet, the panel features over thirty human and animal figures, spirals, and handprints etched into the sandstone. These petroglyphs offer insights into the beliefs, traditions, and daily lives of the people who inhabited this area centuries ago. According to a Hopi elder, one petroglyph may depict the story of the Mountain Sheep and Eagle Clans separating and returning to their origin.Beyond the petroglyph panel, the trail ascends to the mesa top, rewarding hikers with expansive views and a chance to experience the contrasting habitats of the canyon slopes and the open plateau. The return journey leads through piñon-juniper woodland, completing the loop back to the starting point.Note that the trail is considered moderately strenuous, with some steep climbs and narrow passages. Registration is required at the trailhead or museum.