Petroglyph National Monument

Things To Do Near Petroglyph National Monument

Petroglyph National Monument has various trails where you can view prehistoric rock art images. The artwork is fascinating to the eye, and you can have fun trying to discern what the artists wanted to convey with their rock drawings. You'll also get to go on a historical hike, climb up a hilly region, and have scenic views of the surrounding city. You can start at the visitor center, where you'll get all the information you need, including trail guides and brochures, on accessing the petroglyph viewing trails, about 1-6 miles away.

Hiking Trails

• Boca Negra Canyon Trail

  The Boca Negra Canyon is a trail system that lets visitors view around 100 petroglyphs. Its trails are paved and are easy to navigate via guided signs. You can access picnic tables with shaded seating areas, a drinking fountain, and restroom facilities. The trails are sprinkled with wildflowers as well. Some activities you can participate in include walking, hiking, bird watching, and nature trips. Boca Negra Canyon lets you get through self-guided trails on your own, and these trails include Mesa Point, Cliff base, and Macaw. While the trails are all short, Mesa Point is strenuous while the other two are moderate.

  Location

  Atrisco Drive NW, Albuquerque, NM 87120

  Length

  0.6 mile

  Intensity

  Moderate

• Rinconada Canyon Trail

  The Rinconada Canyon Trail is a pet-friendly hiking trail that lets your furry companion on a leash tag along. However, make sure that your pet doesn't follow you to the viewing section of petroglyphs but stays at the central trail of the canyon. You'll get to see up to a maximum of 300 petroglyphs on one trip, and it'll be worth your while to carry binoculars on your tour. Some activities to conduct are hiking, going on a nature trip, walking, and watching birds. The land is fairly flat and has a few places with steps, making it easy to pass through with the kids.

  Location

  7601 St. Josephs Avenue, Albuquerque, NM 87120

  Length

  2.2 miles

  Intensity

  Easy to Moderate

• Piedras Marcadas Canyon Trail

  If you're thinking of taking your pet along the viewing trails, Piedras Marcadas Canyon is the trail for you. Ensure that your dog is always on a leash. The surrounding landscape has sandy trails that have petroglyphs and lava rocks. You can expect to come across 300-500 petroglyphs on your 1.5-hour trip. While the markings on the trail make it easy to pass through it, the deeper sandy locations can modify the intensity.

  Location

  Jill Patricia Street NW, Albuquerque, NM 87114

  Length

  1.5 miles

  Intensity

  Easy to Moderate

Sightseeing

• Sandia Peak Tramway

  Ride through North America's longest tram ride and get to see stunning aerial views of the mountains below. A Sandia Peak Tram will take you 10,378 feet up the Sandia Mountains through a 2.7-mile stretch. From unwinding as you take in the pure mountain air to seeing the scenic views of New Mexico, you'll get to enjoy a one- to two-hour tour. When you get to the top, there's a bar and restaurant where you can have meals or drinks while exploring the beautiful surroundings to the west of the city. In addition, some Forest Service trails at the top of Sandia Peak have nature and backpacking trails for you to explore.

  Location

  30 Tramway Road NE, Albuquerque, NM 87122

• ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden

  The botanical garden is a peaceful environment that features multiple gardens with animal life such as butterflies and insects. Its walking sections allow you to go on a nature walk. ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden has an old farm where you can catch a glimpse of farm animals. You can also take beautiful pictures in the picturesque environment. There are many fun activities at the on-site zoo, aquarium, botanic garden, and Tingley beach.

  Location

  2601 Central Ave. NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104

Museums

• The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History

  The nuclear museum is a cool place to brush up on your science and history as it lets you into the story of the atomic age. You'll get to know the details of the early research that led to nuclear development as well as its peaceful use today. Some various displays and exhibits show applications of nuclear technology in the olden days, today, and projections for the future. You'll also get to hear the stories of the pioneers of nuclear technology.

  Location

  601 Eubank Blvd. SE, Albuquerque, NM 87123

• Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

  The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center will give insight into the ancient culture of the Pueblos through mural collections and exhibition galleries in the museum. Visit the museum during the weekend, and watch spectacular Native American dances. You can also treat your taste buds to Pueblo-inspired cuisine or learn about indigenous foods at the Indian Pueblo Kitchen. Later, get a souvenir from the Indian Pueblo Store and bring home jewelry, rugs, pottery, or handcrafted Native American art.

  Location

  2401 12th Street NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104

Nearby Shops and Restaurants

• Eat First

  Head over to Eat First, about two miles from Petroglyph National monument, if you want to sample Chinese cuisine. The restaurant serves seafood, vegetables, soup, appetizers, and various meats.

  Location

  3250 Coors Blvd. NW Suite C, Albuquerque, NM 87120

• Leona Banh Mi

  Leona Banh Mi is the place to be if you want a taste of Vietnamese-inspired foods. You can dine in, take away, or request delivery service. You'll have various food options, from the Vietnamese traditional sandwich Banh Mi to boba "bubble tea" and anything in between.

  Location

  3250 Coors Blvd. NW suite H, Albuquerque, NM 87120

• B & D Trophies & More

  Visit B & D Trophies & More and shop through the collection of traditional or contemporary artifacts. The store has trophies, plaques, medals, and signage, and you can also customize products and gifts.

  Location

  3296 Coors Blvd. NW, Albuquerque, NM 87120

• Westside Pets

  Treat your travel buddy by getting services from Westside Pets. From pet products to dog grooming, the store will take care of all your pet needs.

  Location

  3296 Coors Blvd. NW, Suite M, Albuquerque, NM 87120

How To Get To Petroglyph National Monument

If you're heading to the national monument site from Interstate 40, drive along the Unser Boulevard exit 154; head three miles north, and turn left to Western Trail. Follow the road towards the national monument's parking garage. When coming to the national monument from Interstate 25, head over to the Paseo del Norte Boulevard, exit 232, and drive west towards Coors Boulevard. Head south towards the Western trail; turn right, and follow the road to the parking lot.

Petroglyph National Monument is a day-use area open daily from sunrise to sunset.

Address

Visitor Information Center, Unser Blvd. NW at Western Trail, Albuquerque, NM, 87120

Fee: Parking Fee (Weekday) $1.0

Fee: Parking Fee (Weekend) $2.0

Petroglyph National Monument shares a vital part of the Puebloan culture and history. The site is worth visiting to get insight into how the ancient people lived and interacted. Other than an educational tour, you can go on a nature expedition and see all that the environment has to offer. If you want to stay and immerse yourself in this ancient culture, an RV is a great way to travel.