Petroglyph NM, Albuquerque’s Ancient Canvas

New Mexico

June 2021

Exploring Albuquerque’s Ancient Canvas

We were on our way early to visit the Petroglyph National Monument in Albuquerque, NM. This monument protects one of the largest petroglyph sites in North America, preserving designs chipped into the dark “desert varnish” of volcanic rocks by Ancestral Puebloans and early Spanish settlers between 1300 and 1680 AD.

For today’s native Americans, this location still has spiritual significance.

The Stones and Carvings of Rinconada Canyon

After our stop at the visitor center to pick up our maps and information, we hiked three separate trails, starting with the Rinconada Canyon Trail. This 2.2-mile sandy trail looped along a canyon floor, allowing us to see hundreds of petroglyphs scattered on the volcanic rock. We saw ancient spirits and animals, geometric symbols, and historical graffiti from before the park was protected. The Puebloans made symbols of animals and spirits, the Spanish settlers carved Christian crosses and personal cattle brands, and later European settlers carved names and dates into the stone.

Because Albuquerque expanded rapidly across the West Mesa before the area was officially designated a National Monument in 1990, houses were built right against the park boundary lines. Looking at ancient rock art on one side and residential rooftops on the other created a sharp contrast between sacred heritage and modern urban growth.

Climbing the Basalt Stairs at Boca Negra Canyon

We did our second exploration at Boca Negra Canyon, three miles north of Rinconada Canyon. Here, we found another amazing gallery of ancient art carved into the volcanic rocks. These petroglyphs are characteristic of the Rio Grande style, featuring geometric designs, animals, human-like figures, and symbolic cloud and rain motifs.

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Although it was a short hike, it was a steep climb of 30 meters over rugged volcanic rock stairs, with a rewarding view at the top.

Piedras Marcadas Canyon, the Sand Trail of the Ancient World

Our third and last hike in the National Monument was at Piedras Marcadas Canyon, located about five miles farther north along the volcanic slope. Here, we saw the most dense gallery of ancient art in the entire monument.

This trail offered a completely different physical challenge than the steep stairs of Boca Negra, a flat, 1.5-mile walk through deep, loose desert sand. Walking along the base of the cliffs, it was again incredible to spot so many distinct images.

Preserving a Legacy

This visit reminded us of how easily urban growth can destroy unique history and art. And why people fought to save this unique historic landscape and carved art. As a National Monument, we can only hope its status ensures its protection for future generations, so visitors like us can hike in and enjoy this unique outdoor art gallery.