Some Of The Best Petroglyphs In Moab

Top Petroglyph Sites to Visit in Moab, Utah

In the canyonlands of southern Utah lies the picturesque town of Moab, a traveler’s base for many extraordinary adventures that can be had nearby. A top reason to visit in this amazing part of the country is to explore the great abundance of rock art that the area holds. Many of our Moab canyoneering trips feature up close viewing, additional information about the sites and views of lesser known, hidden panels. Book a Moab canyoneering tour to see everything from dinosaur tracks, petroglyphs, and stunning arches up close and personal with a certified guide. The ancient rock artworks date from as early as 5500 BC. Here’s some information about some of the most popular rock art sites in this part of Utah and where to find petroglyphs in Moab.

Potash Road Petroglyphs

The large area of cliff wall by the Colorado River along Potash Road is where you’ll find the Potash Road Petroglyphs. You’ll find petroglyphs scattered along the cliff. Some are up high, others are low to the ground. Don’t forget to look behind the vegetation and in the numerous, smaller, alcoves that punctuate the main cliff.

Location: (About 10 miles from Moab) Take US 191 north, to UT 279 south. The rock art and cliff will be on the right. There is signage for the Petroglyphs which are just past the Wall Street rock climbing area.

Time: For this site, allow an hour, or 1-2 hours if you want to see nearby sites too.

Trail Length: You can view these spectacular, vivid petroglyphs from your car.

Moonflower Canyon Petroglyphs

These petroglyphs are well worth the effort to stop by and see, and they’re convenient to reach as you’re on your way from Moab to visit Birthing Rock. The Moonflower Canyon Petroglyphs are on a small area of the cliff wall right beside the road, so you don’t need to hike into the canyon to see them.

Location: (About 3.3 miles from Moab) Off of Hwy 191 turn onto Kane Creek Blvd. Follow the road west the petroglyphs are on the left, beside the Moonflower Canyon campgrounds.

Time: Plan for an hour, or a bit longer if you want to hike a little into the Canyon too.

Trail Length: No hiking is necessary. The rock art is by the parking lot for entering the canyon.

Birthing Rock Petroglyphs

The Birthing Rock panel is on a large boulder beside Kane Creek Boulevard. Its namesake petroglyph depicts a woman giving birth to a baby. This is one of, only a handful of “birthing scenes” found in the southwest. It’s one of Moab’s most unique ancient rock artworks.

Location: (About 6.3 miles from Moab) Take Kane Creek Blvd west and continue onto the dirt road after crossing the cattle guard. Continue 1.4 miles on the gravel road to the pull-out on the west side, and walk about 75 feet west downhill to the big boulder with the rock art.

Time: About 1 to 2 hours to include other stops.

Trail Length: 150 feet, an easy walk from parking to the boulder.

Golf Course Petroglyphs (Moab Man)

The Golf Course Petroglyphs feature Moab Man, a triangular-shaped figure with stunning earrings. There are similar figures of varying sizes, as well as, other figures. These are behind a fence, but this convenient site offers Moab’s most accessible petroglyphs.

Location: (About 5.9 miles from Moab) Take US 191 south. Go left on E Spanish Trail Rd to Westwater Dr. Go about a mile. Pass through the residential area outside the golf course. The petroglyphs are on the left.

Time: Probably best to allow at least 30 to 45 minutes, including driving time.

Trail Length: There’s no hiking involved. Just park and walk a few feet to the fence for viewing.

Gold Bar Petroglyphs

Some of these fascinating images are nearly identical to those at the Indian Creek Recreation Area nearly 35 miles away. Many are faded and it’s sometimes hard to figure out what you are viewing. Additionally this site has been vandalized by recent visitors. Much of the art has been impacted by graffiti but this site is still worth a visit.

Location: (About 14 miles from Moab) Take US 191 north about 4.1 miles to UT 279 S. The petroglyphs are on the left near the Gold Bar Group Campground. They’re along the north side of the railroad tracks across just inside the entry to Dragonfly Canyon.

Time: Allow around 30 minutes for a short easy walk and time to view the rock art.

Trail Length: From the (unmarked) Gold Bar Trailhead it’s about 0.3 miles roundtrip.

Courthouse Wash Pictographs

This rock art site is a bit different as you’ll be viewing Pictographs which are paintings rather than petroglyphs which are carvings. The site features images of humans, shields, sheep, dogs, birds, and various abstract shapes painted or carved on the rock. There are also small petroglyphs carved into nearby boulders at the cliff bases. The large figures of the Courthouse Wash Pictographs are believed to be from, 5,000 – 750 B.C. This is an official national historical site.

Location: (About 3 miles from Moab) Take US 191 north to the gravel path of the Courthouse Wash Rock Art Trail, and walk east to the cliff bases. Look up to see the faint petroglyphs. (If you reach Courthouse Wash, you’ve gone too far.)

Time: Allow about 45 minutes.

Trail Length: Walk uphill for a short distance of about 500 feet to the base of the cliffs.

Things to Keep In Mind When Visiting Rock Art & Ruins

You’ve come to Moab to enjoy the scenery, discover the many fascinating petroglyphs and pictographs and experiences the multitude of exciting things to do near Moab including Moab rafting, Moab canyoneering tours and so much more!

Please remember to be careful with these ancient cultural treasures:

  • Don’t touch the petroglyphs or pictographs because fingers have natural oils that contribute to the degradation of rock art.
  • If you find an artifact, don’t take it. Just leave it where it is and just take pictures of it.
  • If there are rooms or other structures, don’t enter unless it’s posted that it’s allowed.
  • Do NOT write on, draw on, paint, or carve the rocks!

Red River Adventures – For all your Moab adventures

We provide the most fun and exciting guided adventures in the Moab, Utah area. Our Fisher Towers rafting trips highlight the best of Moab white water rafting. Our Moab climbing guides love working with individuals and families and teaching them new skills on Moab’s red rock. In 2003, we embarked on our rafting journey with just three rafts and a single van. Since then, we’ve broadened our horizons to include rock and ice climbing, canyoneering, guided ski touring, travel adventures, and outdoor education. Throughout the years, we’ve had the pleasure of hosting more than 85,000 guests and spending over 110,000 days in the great outdoors! For guided adventure trips in spectacular Utah, call Red River Adventures at (435) 259-4046, or contact us here online anytime.

Red River Adventures is in the TripAdvisor Hall of Fame.

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We strive to ensure that time spent with us is time that you will always look back on fondly. We want to leave you with a memories that bring a smile to your face no matter where you are, no matter what you are doing, and no matter how much time has passed. In addition to a deep reservoir of personal experience, our rafting guides are licensed by the state of Utah, have Wilderness First Responder and/or First Aid/CPR certifications, and are insured. Many guides also have swiftwater rescue training. Our climbing and canyoneering guides are AMGA-certified for the terrain in which they operate. Our skiing guides are certified for the terrain, and some are world-renowned for their experience. All of our guides are intimately acquainted with not only the river, rock and snow, but also with the incredible surroundings of the areas we guide.

River Rafting Reviews and Red River Adventure Testimonials!

Tammy Laterveer
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Tammy Laterveer
July 26, 2024

Went on a canyoneering adventure with Cage. It was just the 5 of us, and it was Ana amazing adventure! 2 fun repels into the canyons, and a scenic hike back out. Cage was the best guide! Highly recommend.

David Muirhead
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David Muirhead
July 25, 2024

Red River Adventures! We went white water river rafting and we had Maggie as our guide. She was very helpful and polite. You get to go swimming in some spots if you would like to. You get to make a lot of great memories. Red Water River rafting keeps you occupied for the bus ride. They point out cool things. We had a amazing time, I would definitely do this again! 5/5 stars! Thank you! -Ella Muirhead

Emma Gilliland
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Emma Gilliland
July 24, 2024

Absolutely fantastic experience with Red River Adventures in Moab! Our guide, Maggie, was exceptional. Her knowledge of the area and enthusiasm made the trip unforgettable. The scenery was breathtaking, and the rafting was both thrilling and enjoyable. Maggie ensured we were safe and comfortable throughout the journey, and her storytelling added a unique touch to the adventure. The whole team was professional and friendly, making the entire experience smooth and enjoyable. Highly recommend Red River Adventure and be sure to ask for Maggie as your guide – you won't be disappointed! Five stars all the way!

Lori McCoy
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Lori McCoy
July 23, 2024

Grace our guide was awesome! Took Jake’s advice on a hike later that day, was a good one! Was able to swim downriver overall had a great experience!

Clifford Gilliland
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Clifford Gilliland
July 23, 2024

Wonderful day trip! Friendly staff, safe knowledgeable River Guides, awesome equipment. Absolutely fantastic float! Why do I give 5 stars? Because they don't have 6!

Angie Gaul
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Angie Gaul
July 23, 2024

Grace was a wonderful guide to our family of four, including our Autistic 9-year-old son, who had a blast in the raft. The heat, van ride in a life jacket and general sensory stimulation of the hot desert had him dysregulated, and they were very understanding. The half-day Fisher Towers tour was a safe and fun intro to rafting for our 6-year-old.

heather Wiegand
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heather Wiegand
July 23, 2024

Great tour

jeziel Lopez
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jeziel Lopez
July 22, 2024

Such an amazing experience, especially for a first timer! I did the Morning Glory hike witth Kenzie who was such a great guide - clearly explaining the process, making it feel safe, and then sharing her knowledge about the local plants and other hiking spots. It was a nice easy, beautiful hike back.

Al Conway
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Al Conway
July 21, 2024

Amazing float down the river. Guides were great, personable, funny, and knowledgeable. Can’t recommend it enough. You won’t be sorry you chose Red River.

Meghan Busse
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Meghan Busse
July 19, 2024

Great day on the river! Everyone loved swimming! Big thanks to Maggie and Grace!

Noah Gessler
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Noah Gessler
July 18, 2024

We really enjoyed the trip. All of the guides were well organized and our guide, Liz, was very friendly and knowledgeable. She had lots of great info and stories. Thank you

Lindsay Whitchurch
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Lindsay Whitchurch
July 17, 2024

My son and I went on the Bow and Arrow canyoneering adventure and had an outstanding experience! Such beautiful views. Our guide, Cage, was the best. He was super knowledgeable and friendly, with a chill vibe that made for an excellent morning. Our four rappels were each different in terms of height and terrain and were SO worth the hike. I would absolutely book with Red River Adventures again!

Sarah Parton
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Sarah Parton
July 17, 2024

We had 6 people in our group and we had a great time! Our guide, Keira, was fantastic! She was friendly, talkative, and super knowledgeable! She made the trip fun! The rapids were simple and the float itself was full of gorgeous views and amazing scenery! I took off one star simply because I think it's pricey for a float that lasts an hour and a half but the trip itself was great!

Stephanie Abshire
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Stephanie Abshire
July 17, 2024

Great Experience for the whole family. Our Guides were knowledgeable and very professional. Highly recommend them to anyone who is looking for a Fun Rafting Adventure.

Yash Vijay
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Yash Vijay
July 17, 2024

Highly recommend! We were a group of 5 who went for a half day rafting tour on the Colorado river. There were total of 9 people on the raft including Jonas, big shoutout to him for being a great guide on the tour! It was a thrilling experience, even though the water on the day was timid, the rapids made it worth it. You can make the experience as wild as possible, play some games which might lead to you ending up in the river (life vest is a saviour) and quickly coming back up.

Lauren Crotty
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Lauren Crotty
July 16, 2024

Savannah and team were awesome! The scenery was amazing and the knowledge that the guides have about the surrounding area is very informative! Ethan was an amazing driver through the mountains as well!

Elizabeth Yelton
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Elizabeth Yelton
July 15, 2024

Our half day white water rafting adventure was a great experience.Our raft guide Kiera knew the rapids perfectly and informed us about all the great things that the river and Utah have to offer. We saw 2 bald eagles and lots of blue herring. It was a great day in the river!

Maggie Downs
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Maggie Downs
July 15, 2024

We couldn't have had a better rafting experience. Our guides were both incredibly professional and extremely fun, which made a highlight of our trip to Moab. Even on a 105-degree day, we were comfortable and had a blast. (And now I think my 9-year-old will grow up to become a river guide.) I'm really happy we chose Red River Adventures — and I can't wait to return to try one of your other excursions!

John Dominski
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John Dominski
July 15, 2024

Absolutely fantastic day of climbing. Our guide Ben helped us all feel prepared and get after it. Even more he is a great photographer. Thank you 🙏

Juno 2712
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Juno 2712
July 14, 2024

Demi journée de rafting sur le Colorado très sympa. La guide était au top. En plus de la navigation, elle nous a donné des informations sur la région, la nature environnante, sur la culture Mormon etc, c'était très instructif. Pour moi, c'était la première fois sur un raft et je me suis tout de suite sentie en confiance. Je recommande Red River Adventures.

Kenzy Phillips
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Kenzy Phillips
July 14, 2024

Our family had a wonderful time. Guides were very knowledgeable and helpful. Would definitely do it again.

Jordyn Kauwe
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Jordyn Kauwe
July 13, 2024

Guides were great. We had a great time, would definitely do it again!

Angelique G
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Angelique G
July 13, 2024

Had such an amazing time today! It was the first time any of us had ever gone rafting. Our guide Kira was wonderful! Super knowledgeable, friendly, and comical! Highly recommend Red River rafts and Kira has a guide!

Grace Johnston
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Grace Johnston
July 13, 2024

We loved Red River! My boyfriend and I started our trip in Moab & were fortunate to have Cage as our rock climbing guide. It was the perfect morning excursion to try new types of climbing like crack climbing as both of us were used to only climbing in a gym. A week later, at the end of our trip, we came back for a rafting trip and got Cage as our guide again. He was great & gave us awesome recs for future climbs & rafting trips! Thank you Red River, we will definitely be back :)

Dietrich Heide
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Dietrich Heide
July 13, 2024

Had a great time on the river. Fun guides who went out of the way to ensure people were having as much fun as possible. We will be back!

Brian Kruse
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Brian Kruse
July 12, 2024

My son & I had a great time climbing for the day. Having our guide Jon get us to awesome routes and just as importantly in the shade was great for a summer day of climbing. Even better was all the pointers for how to get some great photos to remember the trip. Would highly recommend Jon for anyone looking to get the most out of their climbing time here.

Richard Luper
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Richard Luper
July 12, 2024

Our guide Maggie is a 2nd generation Moabite and knows the river and area very well. She was awesome and the other guide followed her lead. It would be a pleasure to be on her raft again. Thank you for the great memories. Cheryll, Lucas, Richard Luper.

Chuck Swaney
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Chuck Swaney
July 12, 2024

Had a great morning on the water our guide Cage was great. Very family friendly trip.

Alexandra Rochester
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Alexandra Rochester
July 7, 2024

We did Rock of Ages with Cage as we wanted something a little challenging. What an incredible experience! The rappels were varied in length and style, and the hike through was gorgeous with so many different views. But Cage really made the day special. You can tell he loves his job and cares deeply about the outdoor adventure industry. We are chatty people who share a lot of his interests so it was a great match. Cage’s knowledge of local history, his explanations for what he was doing setting up ropes, and pointing out features of the canyon kept us engaged and excited the entire time. Thank you to Cage for such a great day!

Dwight Norris
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Dwight Norris
July 6, 2024

Our half day white water rafting adventure was a great experience for whole family. This was due in part to the high energy and knowledgeable staff staff. Our raft guide “Liz” steered our raft into the rapids perfectly and informed us about all the great things that the river and Utah have to offer. Thanks Liz!

Cindy F.
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Cindy F.
July 6, 2024

Great experience! Would definitely book again!

Rebecca Roberts
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Rebecca Roberts
July 6, 2024

We had a great time on an afternoon half day excursion. Raft guide was kind, knowledgeable and made the experience a lot of fun!

Darren Simons
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Darren Simons
July 6, 2024

Great trip . Would have like bigger rapids . It was still fun. Grace was are guide , she did a wonderful . Would definitely recommend .

Todd Hoopes
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Todd Hoopes
July 5, 2024

Our second trip with RR, 10 years apart and just as good as the first time! Our guide Kenzie was fantastic. Highly skilled in the art of repelling and a very nice person. Thanks Kenzie, will be back in another 10 years.

Karen Ericson
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Karen Ericson
July 4, 2024

This trip was awesome! Lunch was great. Guide was knowledgeable and lots of fun.

Joerg
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Joerg
July 4, 2024

It was awesome! Kira was out Captain and did a great job!

Andrea Chin
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Andrea Chin
July 4, 2024

Our friend group of seven (4 adults, 3 kids - 13, 13, 9) had a great time with Liz. She took great care of us, taught us so much about the landscape, the water, and animals! She has great energy yet matched our vibe in the boat. We did the full day trip with lunch which was delicious! Highly recommend doing the full day as it takes 45 minutes to get to the site then do safety training. It was really amazing seeing the landscape from a different perspective!

Easton Hamblin
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Easton Hamblin
July 4, 2024

We loved our visit! Guide Jordan was excellent! Thanks for a great experience!

brandon squires
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brandon squires
July 2, 2024

Great experience today. Guides were fun and helpful. Great for our family with kids ranging from 8 to 16. Guides were funny and entertained us with jokes on the drives.

Christy Dimos Jones
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Christy Dimos Jones
July 2, 2024

Great experience…wonderful guide who was great with my children

Heather Averett
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Heather Averett
July 1, 2024

5 stars for the adventure. 5 stars for the bus ride. 5 stars for lunch. 5 stars for our guide, Savanah. 3 stars for the sun as it was a little too bright. I would absolutely do it again. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Z Mac
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Z Mac
July 1, 2024

Savannah was awesome! Thanks for being our guide today! Food was great too! No complaints about anything! Excellent time, super fun family experience!

Max Chambers
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Max Chambers
July 1, 2024

Great guides and amazing scenery! The river was fun, mostly class I and a few class II rapids in late June. The best part was lunch, particularly how accommodating Red River was for food allergies (e.g. gluten-free). I would definitely book with them again!

Jennifer Hardy
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Jennifer Hardy
June 30, 2024

Great ride today with Red River Adventures. We did a full day of white water rafting which included a delicious home made lunch. Our guide, Jake, was fantastic, great sense of humor and a kind soul.

Christine Millett
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Christine Millett
June 30, 2024

Great trip!

Chelsi Lee
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Chelsi Lee
June 30, 2024

An adventure almost anyone could enjoy, very grateful for the experience!

Dow Hardy
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Dow Hardy
June 29, 2024

Had a great trip with Jake as our tour guide today. The trip was a great blend of Class 1-2 rapids and smooth running spots. He was a personable, skilled and knowledgeable tour guide, who made our day the best. Highly recommend.

Anna Habben
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Anna Habben
June 29, 2024

We loved our half-day rafting trip with Red River. Their guides were engaged, fun, and knowledgeable. Our kids were a little nervous for their first white water and our guide did a great job at helping them to feel safe so they could have a great time. I’ve rafted the Colorado with other companies and will for sure book with Red River again next time we go.

Marcin Kruszyna
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Marcin Kruszyna
June 28, 2024

We took the whole day tour,it was very well organised , nice lunch, friendly staff. Highly recommended.

Elena Lopez
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Elena Lopez
June 28, 2024

We did a half day rafting tour, it was an AMAZING experience!! Jonas was our guide, he was awesome and great with kids!