New Mexico Petroglyph National Monument map and highlights

Detailed guide of Petroglyph National Monument West side of Albuquerque.     

Petroglyph National Monument in West side of Albuquerque.     

Nearly 20,000 petroglyphs carved by ancestral Puebloans,  Hispanic sheepherders, and early settlers stretch 17 mi along this  volcanic escarpment. Hiking trails wind through the gorgeous Boca Negra  Canyon, many to petroglyphs and associated archaeological sites relating  the 12,000-year story of human habitation on Albuquerque's West Mesa.  The park was authorized on June 27, 1990.     

WHAT TO SEE & DO     

Hiking, viewing petroglyphs. Facilities: Visitor center, guided  and self-guided tours, hiking trails. Book and map sales, picnic  tables. Programs & Events: Ranger-led tours (weekends Memorial  Day-mid-Oct., otherwise by reservation), cultural demonstrations  (weekends Memorial Day-Labor Day). Founders Day (around Aug. 25). Tips  & Hints: Before hiking, get maps at visitor center. Come in spring  for cactus and wildflower blooms, Sept. and Oct. for best weather. Watch  for rattlesnakes. Busiest May-Oct, least crowded Dec. and Jan.     

FEES, HOURS & REGULATIONS     

Canyon parking fee: $1 per car weekdays, $2 weekends. No  hunting. No motorized equipment. No pets at Boca Negra Canyon, leashed  pets only on some backcountry trails. Stay on designated paths. Park and  visitor center open daily 8-5.     

HOW TO GET THERE     

3 mi north of 1-40, on Unser Blvd. NW at Western Trail. Closest airport: Albuquerque (12 mi).     

CONTACTS     

Petroglyph National Monument (6001 Unser Blvd. NW, Albuquerque, NM 87120, tel. 505/899-0205, fax 505/899—0207,).   

Petroglyph National Monument. Detailed guide of Petroglyph National Monument in West side of Albuquerque.