Rock Creek Petroglyphs Hike
Rock Creek Petroglyphs — among the most significant Fremont culture rock art panels accessible from a Desolation Canyon camp.
The Rock Creek Petroglyphs Hike accesses Fremont culture rock art panels in the Rock Creek drainage above the historic ranch at mile 41.6. This is among the most significant cultural hike destinations in the Desolation Canyon float corridor — the panels are concentrated and well-preserved, depicting the characteristic Fremont anthropomorphic figures with broad trapezoidal torsos, headdresses, and associated animal imagery. The hike follows the Rock Creek drainage upcanyon from the river, with the panels located on prominent sandstone faces and in alcoves above the canyon floor. The combination of the ranch walk (downstream) and the petroglyphs hike (upstream in the drainage) makes Rock Creek the premier layover destination in Desolation Canyon.
Quick stats
- Distance
- 2 mi round trip
- Elevation gain
- 200 ft
- Time
- 1–2.5 hrs
- Difficulty
- Easy · family-friendly
- Best months
- Apr, May, Sep, Oct
Know before you go
BLM Desolation/Gray Canyon Special Recreation Management Area. Cultural resources protection in effect.
When to go
Morning light on the panels is best for photography.
Wildlife & geology
Wildlife you might see: canyon wren (Catherpes mexicanus), beaver (Castor canadensis).
History
Named for Rock Creek and the petroglyphs found in the drainage.
Fremont culture occupied the Green River drainage approximately 700–1300 CE. The petroglyphs at Rock Creek are among the most well-documented examples in Desolation Canyon. ARPA protects all cultural resources. Do not touch, mark, remove, or disturb.