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Petroglyph National Monument
Category: Landmarks & Historical Buildings [Edit]
6001 Unser Blvd NWAlbuquerque, NM 87120
(505) 899-0205
4 reviews for Petroglyph National Monument
Yeah I don't know about this place.
They need to do a better job of protecting the petroglyphs. Basically there are a lot of fake ones that people have done over the past several years and while some of them are pretty obvious, it can be confusing and kind of annoying.
And the real ones we did end up seeing were not really all that exciting. I can't believe I'm saying this because I love the National Park Service, but maybe they should just round up all the real ones and put them in a museum somewhere.
If you've been here, you know you agree at least a little.
People thought this was:
- Useful (1)
Graffiti. It's in our genes. More specifically it seems it's more in male genes.
It's a form of human communication, whether it's telling a story or marking a territory.
If viewed as a scourge or nuisance to society, we label it graffiti. If we look
upon graffiti as art, it takes on the name of drawings. If it has archeological
significance, we might even label it petroglyphs.
American Graffiti. In this case, not the movie but American expression. We see
it on walls, buildings, subways, freeway structures...and on rocks. 700 years ago
the inhabitants of what is now known as Albuquerque, scuffed and marked images on
volcanic rock. For the next 300 years both American Indians and Spanish settlers
made over 20,000 images on these rocks..
The Petroglyph National Monument has four major areas to view the petroglyphs and
volcanoes. Boca Negra Canyon, Rinconada Canyon, Ridras Marcadas Canon and Volcanoes.
Most require a long hike over unpaved areas to reach the artifacts. Boca Negra
Canyon has the easiest viewing where you can walk just 5 minutes to see some of
the petroglyphs. Because I had limited spare time and still dressed in my business
suit, I elected to see Boca Negra.
At Boca Negra Canyon there are three viewing areas. Mesa Point Trail takes you
up a 200 foot hill to view the rocks. The Macaw Trail is a 5 minute walk. The
Cliff Base Trail takes about 15 minutes to see everything.
Yes, this does not have the impact of a Grand Canyon, but if you have an hour or
more to spend and want exercise on some interesting trails and scenery, this is
a recommended stop. Don't bring your business shoes or designer sneakers here,
there are many rocks on the trail to scuff your shoes.
And remember the next time you see graffiti under an overpass or on the subway,
those items could be in a museum or national park 1000 years from now.
People thought this was:
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The petroglyphs are interesting but not amazing. Pretty but not beautiful and awe-inspiring. If you have a few extra hours in Albuquerque or are looking for a scenic place to picnic, then check it out.
People thought this was:
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The petroglyphs themselves, the real ones, are pretty amazing considering their age. The hikes are nice too and the views of the Sandias and downtown are also great. The massive housing developments now surrounding the monument, however, are kind of a disgrace. Pretty soon, this wild and rugged terrain will just be a glorified city park.
People thought this was:
- Useful (1)