Petroglyphs National Monument

Petroglyph National Monument protects a variety of cultural and natural resources including five volcanic cones, hundreds of archaeological sites and an estimated 25,000 images carved by native peoples and early Spanish settlers. Many of the images are recognizable as animals, people, brands and crosses; others are more complex. the Monument stretches 17 miles along Albuquerque's West Mesa, a volcanic basalt escarpment that dominates the city’s western horizon.


I only had 2 hours to spend at this monument before I had to check out of my hotel and then get a ride to the train station. It was very interesting to view these petroglyphs. Amongst the dark rocks were amazing images that were hundreds of years old. I would like to return some day and be able to spend more time to examine some of the more interesting petroglyphs.

Boarded the train and headed for Los Angeles, California.