Sharing is caring:
.jpg)
Before our visit to Dinosaur National Monument, the Mountain Fam visited some cool Petroglyphs located at McConkie Ranch in Dry Fork Canyon near Vernal, Utah. These rock art images date back to the Fremont People over 1500 years ago, and were really fun to see.
.jpg)
.jpg)
On this trip we were lucky to bring Big E and little g’s cousin, aunt and uncle along and pointing out the rock art to the tots along the trail was the best part of the hike. Carved warriors, painted figures, even a carving of a bear graced the walls of this 1 mile hike.
.jpg)
.jpg)
My sister-in-law is an anthropologist and her insight into the historical culture surrounding the McConkie Ranch Petroglyphs was especially interesting. For me it was tough to differentiate between actual petroglyphs and more recent imitations, but her knowledge of ancient peoples was helpful.
.jpg)
This trail is located on private land, is well marked and requires a small parking fee. It’s well worth it. Although the terrain on the McConkie Ranch Petroglyphs hike was difficult, the total hike was short and with a little creativity the tots found a good way down.
.jpg)
Getting There: From downtown Vernal take 500 North heading west. Turn right onto 3500 West, which becomes Dry Fork Canyon Road/Red Cloud Loop Road. Drive about 6.5 miles to McConkie Ranch Road, follow signs to parking area.
Distance: Approximately 1 mile.
Tips: Three Kings Trail also begins at this parking area and leads off to the right. The shorter Main Trail follows the cliff face to the left.
