McConkie Ranch Petroglyphs

McConkie Ranch Petroglyphs fjthomas91 (Atlas Obscura User)

These beautifully preserved petroglyphs are just north of Vernal, at McConkie Ranch in Dry Fork Canyon. These panels cover 200 feet along a cliff face in the Navajo formation. It’s believed the petroglyphs were crafted somewhere between 1-1200 CE. They are excellent examples of Fremont Native American culture.

The images include various people and symbols along with large renditions of the various animals that populate the region. Many are also numbered, detailing where various archaeologists have worked across the site.

The petroglyphs can be easily reached by several trails with signs and ropes that mark the way. The trails are easy to traverse. The entire trek is just over a mile hike roundtrip.

Know Before You Go

Please be respectful of history, the Fremont native culture, and private property. Help preserve the petroglyphs by not touching or removing any of the rock art from the premises and staying on the marked trails.

There is a parking area on site where the property owners ask for donations for the upkeep of the area. Follow all signs and rules.