If you’re a history buff or simply enamored by the beauty of ancient rock art, then the Newspaper Rock Petroglyphs near Moab, Utah, should be on your must-visit travel destination list!
Located just outside the Needles entrance to Canyonlands National Park down Indian Creek, this site boasts the largest collection of petroglyphs in Utah, providing an incredible window into the past. It was also one of my favorite places to visit as a child growing up in Moab.
Newspaper Rock is not just any roadside attraction; it’s a Utah state monument that holds immense cultural and historical significance. This site is a testament to the rich heritage of the region and a treasure trove of knowledge about the people who once called this place home.
Getting There:
Situated along the enchanting Indian Creek Scenic Byway west of US 191, Newspaper Rock is a relatively short drive from Moab downtown, about an hour to the south. The journey itself is part of the adventure, offering stunning landscapes and the chance to witness the breathtaking fall colors in autumn or the bloomings of spring. It is really breathtaking.
The Petroglyphs:
When you arrive at Newspaper Rock State Historic Monument, you’ll be greeted by an awe-inspiring display of historic pre-writing symbols, painstakingly carved and picked into the rock by ancient people. These rock art masterpieces were created by ancestral Puebloan people and Native American Indians and are estimated to be between 650 and 2,000 years old! Imagine the stories and messages, etched into the stone for millennia.
However, you will have to make your own interpretation of what this rock art is conveying because there is no definitive explanation. We will never really know for certain what these petroglyphs are communicating. Not knowing can add an alluring sense of mystery to your trip.
TIP: Try going round circle with your family while each person shares their own interpretations of the petroglyphs for a family fun activity!
An Easy Adventure:
One of the best things about visiting Newspaper Rock near Moab, Utah is that it’s an easy outdoor adventure suitable for all ages. After parking your car, you’ll only need to take a short walk to reach the site, you can even see it by roadside. This makes it a leisurely activity that can be enjoyed by everyone, from solo travelers to families with kids.
Explore the Monument:
Upon arriving at the Newspaper Rock Archaeological Site, you’ll be greeted by the mesmerizing sight of ancient rock art. Spend about an hour or two wandering nature and observing the petroglyphs, taking in the intricate details and trying to decipher the messages left by those who came before us. It’s a unique opportunity to connect with the past and marvel at the creativity of ancient civilizations.
IMPORTANT: Do not touch the rock art, litter, or go off trail. Let’s do our part to preserve these rich cultural areas.
A Fun Day Trip from Moab:
If you’re staying in Moab make it a day trip! Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast, a history lover, or a nature admirer, this scenic drive and archaeological site offer something for everyone. Plus, there’s parking available, so you can explore at your own pace without any rush. Newspaper Rock makes for a perfect day trip from Moab, Utah.
Newspaper Rock near Moab, Utah, is a remarkable destination that combines the allure of beautiful fall colors in autumn with the intrigue of historic rock art. Located outside the Needles entrance to Canyonlands National Park and easily accessible from Moab, it’s a captivating slice of history that everyone can enjoy. So, grab your camera, and your sense of wonder, and embark on an unforgettable journey to this Utah state monument.
Have you traveled to Moab, Utah and did you stop by Newspaper Rock? Share this fun day trip from Moab on Pinterest!
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