7 Places to See Arizona Petroglyphs
Have you ever stood in front of ancient rock carvings and felt like you were peeking through a window into the past? That’s exactly what it feels like when I visit petroglyphs here in Arizona. These incredible images share stories that reach back thousands of years. They speak of the people who once called this desert home, their daily lives, their beliefs, and their connection to the land.
Petroglyphs are carvings or paintings made on rock. They are everywhere in the Southwest, especially in Arizona. You’ll often find them near old cliff dwellings or tucked into rugged canyon walls. And let me tell you—there’s nothing quite like standing in the stillness of the desert, spotting these symbols, and realizing you’re looking at the same markings someone created centuries ago.
If you’re feeling curious or just itching for an Arizona road trip, I’ve gathered a few of the best spots to experience these ancient artworks in person. Pack your sunscreen, grab some water, and let’s go exploring! Below are some of the best places to view these ancient rock carvings and paintings.
Where to See Arizona Petroglyphs
- Deer Valley Petroglyph Site
- Honanki Heritage SIte
- Palatki Heritage SIte
- Picture Canyon & Cultural Preserve
- Signal Peak at Saguaro National Park
- V Bar V Heritage Site- Crane Petroglyphs
- White Tank Mountains
Deer Valley Petroglyph Site
Tucked into the northern edge of Phoenix, this spot is a hidden gem. With over 1,500 petroglyphs carved into basalt boulders, it’s one of the largest collections in the area. A short, easy trail loops around the site, making it perfect for a morning adventure before the heat kicks in. There’s also a small museum that gives great context about the people who created these images.
Honanki Heritage Site
Sedona’s red rocks are stunning enough on their own, but Honanki adds another layer of magic. This site was home to the Sinagua people, and the rock art here is really cool to look at. Think cliff dwellings, pictographs (those are the painted ones), and an energy that feels ancient and sacred. The trail is short and scenic, surrounded by junipers and big desert views.
Palatki Heritage Site
Just a stone’s throw from Honanki, Palatki is another beautiful heritage site filled with petroglyphs and pictographs. You’ll need a reservation to visit, and trust me—it’s worth planning ahead. Rangers on-site give wonderful talks that help you understand what you’re seeing and why it matters. The short walk up to the site leads you past cliff walls with layered history written across them in symbols and faded paint. To learn more about Palatki and Honanki check out our post: Palatki Heritage Site -Everything You Need to Know to Visit.
Picture Canyon & Cultural Preserve
This place is a peaceful blend of nature and history in Flagstaff. A shaded path leads you along a small creek where you’ll see basalt boulders covered in intricate petroglyphs. The site also has interpretive signs and birdwatching opportunities. It’s a beautiful way to spend a morning if you’re up north and want to stretch your legs while soaking up a little ancient culture.
Signal Peak at Saguaro National Park
This one’s a must-see if you’re visiting Saguaro National Park in Tucson. A short uphill trail leads to a hilltop covered in boulders—and those boulders are decorated with spiral shapes, animal figures, and more. The desert views are breathtaking, especially at sunrise or sunset when the rocks seem to glow. It’s also one of the more accessible spots if you’re visiting the park with limited time. To learn more about Saguaro National Park check out our post: See Over a Million Cacti at this Desert National Park.
White Tank Mountains – Short Hike to See Arizona Petroglpyhs
Closer to home for many in the Valley, White Tank Mountain Regional Park offers a great day trip with hiking trails, desert scenery, and—you guessed it—petroglyphs! The Waterfall Trail is especially popular and passes by some of the most visible carvings in the park. It’s a great hike for families or beginner hikers, and if you’re lucky enough to catch a desert rain, you might actually see the namesake waterfall flowing! The best time of year to visit is after a heavy rain or in the months of February or March. To read more about the Waterfall Trail visit our post Hike the Waterfall Trail at White Tank Mountains.
Crane Petroglyphs, Formerly known as V Bar V Heritage Site
This lesser-known site has over 1,000 petroglyphs, and they are some of the most well-preserved in the entire state. The carvings here are aligned with the solar calendar—meaning they were used to track the seasons. (Gardeners and farmers from long ago knew how to read the sun like we read planting calendars!) The short hike in is easy and beautiful, and the volunteer guides are informative.
Arizona petroglyphs connect us to the people who lived and thrived in this desert long before we did. Visiting these sites always makes me feel more grounded. Whether you’re planning your next nature outing or just daydreaming from your porch with a cup of tea, I hope this list inspires you to get out and see some of these incredible places for yourself.
