Ancient scenes preserved on rock surfaces are found throughout Utah’s southern desert.  These petroglyphs and pictographs give a glimpse into the historic living of the ancient people that once inhabited this harsh region.  The people left behind paintings (pictographs) or carved images (petroglyphs) of human-like and animal-like figures.  Like us today, these ancient civilizations were drawn to the beauty of the towering cliffs and deep canyons.  The petroglyphs and pictographs in this region are estimated to be 600 – 2,000 years old. 

A barrier such as a fence or boardwalk protects many of these rock art sites, making it easy to navigate and view.  Some locations have no official marker or barrier making them more susceptible to damage from ignorant or malicious hands.  Refrain from touching rock art and the area around them because the slightest touch removes sand granules. In addition, the oil from skin leaves a residue behind that stains and deteriorates the rock art.