Discover Ancient Artistry at Petroglyph National Monument
Explore Petroglyph National Monument, a treasure trove of ancient rock art and stunning desert landscapes in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Petroglyph National Monument in Albuquerque, New Mexico is a stunning landscape where ancient rock carvings tell the stories of past civilizations. Explore this incredible site that showcases over 24,000 petroglyphs, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural history of the region. Ideal for hiking enthusiasts and history buffs alike, this national reserve invites visitors to connect with the past amidst breathtaking natural beauty.
A brief summary to Petroglyph National Monument
- Western Trail NW, Albuquerque, New Mexico, 87120, US
- +1505-899-0205
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy the petroglyphs in softer light.
- Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and wear sturdy shoes as the trails can be rocky and uneven.
- Consider joining a ranger-led program for a deeper understanding of the site's history and significance.
- Don't forget your camera! The stunning landscapes and ancient carvings provide incredible photo opportunities.
Getting There
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Public Transit
From the Albuquerque downtown area, take the ABQ RIDE bus number 66 (Northwest) towards 'Northwest Albuquerque'. The bus will take you along Central Avenue (Historic Route 66). Get off at the 'Western Trail NW' stop. From there, you will walk approximately 0.5 miles (about 10-15 minutes) northwest on Western Trail NW to reach the entrance of Petroglyph National Monument. Look for the signage for the visitor center.
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Bicycle
If you are in the downtown area, you can rent a bike from one of the local bike-sharing services. Start your ride heading west on Central Avenue. Continue until you reach the intersection with Western Trail NW. Turn left onto Western Trail NW. Follow this road until you reach the entrance of Petroglyph National Monument. The ride is about 5 miles and can take approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on your cycling speed.
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Walking
If you are near the Old Town area, you can take a scenic walk to Petroglyph National Monument. Start by walking towards Central Avenue and head west. Continue on Central Avenue until you reach the intersection with Western Trail NW. Turn left and follow Western Trail NW for about 1.5 miles to the entrance of the monument. This walk will take approximately 1 hour depending on your pace.
Discover more about Petroglyph National Monument
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