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Petroglyph National Monument is a protected area in New Mexico with over 24,000 petroglyphs and archaeological sites. Visitors can explore the high desert environment and volcanic cones, and attend events year-round. The site is open all year and has no entrance fee.
Petroglyph National Monument is a New Mexico historic site managed by the National Parks Service and the city of Albuquerque. The site takes its name from the more than 24,000 petroglyphs found in the area, although there are also numerous other sites of cultural, historical and geological interest enclosed within this designated area. Visitors to Petroglyph National Monument can also explore a number of museums and other sites in Albuquerque itself.
This area was set aside for protection in 1990. It covers 7,236 acres (29 kilometers) of land. There is no fee to enter the area, although there are charges for parking if people choose to bring vehicles, and the site is open all year round. Like many other sites set aside for historical, environmental, or cultural reasons, Petroglyph National Monument has a visitor center that provides information about the site and things people can do there, including maps to help people locate areas of particular interest.
The high desert environment is of ecological interest to visitors interested in seeing the organisms that can thrive in highly arid climates that experience extreme temperatures. Climate has also played an important role in the historic preservation of the site. Archaeological sites tend to do well in desert climates because they lack the moisture that can lead to the destruction of artifacts. Within Petroglyph National Monument, in addition to the famous petroglyphs, are numerous archaeological sites left over from previous human occupants of the area.
Petroglyph National Monument is also home to several volcanic cones. Visitors can hike around the site to see various items of interest, including desert wildflowers in the spring and fall. Written guides to the site are available, and it is also possible to take guided tours with people familiar with the site. Advance arrangements may be required for tours, especially during peak season.
Events occur year-round at Petroglyph National Monument. The National Parks Service maintains an extensive website with information about the parks and monuments it oversees, and this website includes information about regional events that visitors can use to plan ahead. There are numerous parks and monuments in the American Southwest that can be visited on an extended tour of the region, including sites such as the Grand Canyon, Arches National Park, Carlsbad Caverns, White Sands, Gila Cliff Dwellings, and the Aztec Ruins National Monument.
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