Picture Rocks Petroglyphs in Tucson
Located in the Tucson Mountains, near Saguaro National Park, are 800+ petroglyphs designed by the Hohokam people. The site is open to the public, but on private property. Climbing the rocks is not allowed – and not necessary. Many of the petroglyphs are easy to see from ground level.
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How to See the Picture Rocks Petroglyphs
The petroglyphs are easily accessible from three different points.
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- The petroglyphs are on the private property of the Redemptorist Renewal Center. Park in their main lot, then check in at the office. Follow the signs for Way of the Cross. Before reaching that path the petroglyphs will be on the rocks with the large cross near the top. The center asks all visitors to check in no matter where you park.
- If you are adding these petroglyphs to your visit to Saguaro National Park, park at the Ringtail Trailhead lot, off Picture Rocks Road. The petroglyphs can be seen while hiking the 2.7 mile Ringtail Trail/Picture Rocks Wash Trail loop.
- There is a small parking lot just off Picture Rocks Road. In your maps app, type the address 7301 W Picture Rocks Rd, Tucson, AZ 85743. The parking area is near the yellow signs warning about a curve in the road. From the parking lot the sandy trail is obvious. If you notice a cross on top of rocks, walk towards it.
Sonoran Desert
The ancient rock art is found among the shrubs and succulents of the Sonoran Desert. So be aware of the hot weather, little shade, and creepy, crawly, biting, and spikey things.
We enjoyed our short time visiting this site. It was not crowded, nor too hot. We saw quite a bit of life including many birds, rabbits, and a coyote walking down the wash.
Way of the Cross
Across from the petroglyphs is a path titled Way of the Cross with 14 stations depicting Jesus Christ’s crucifixion. Even if these images don’t align with your spiritual journey, the path is a calming place for reflection.
The Petroglyphs
The petroglyphs found here were likely created by the Hohokam people, who are known for their irrigation skills allowing them to grow crops in the arid desert. Archeologists are not certain what the images mean, but theorize they could be symbols for rituals, boundaries, events, and solstice markers.
Fun Facts About the Picture Rocks Petroglyphs
• Most of the glyphs are believed to have been created between 750 and 1350 AD
• There are estimated to be 800 to 1,000 individual glyphs
• Most of the petroglyphs would have been created by pecking or scratching designs into the darker surface of the rock to expose the lighter color underneath
Optional Items to Bring
LEAVE NO TRACE
Anza Expedition
Campsite #18 & 19/106
near Picture Rocks
October 1775
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Places to Explore Nearby
This review is based only on Jennifer’s experience. Enjoy at your own risk with the understanding that individual scenarios in a natural environment will be variable.
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