Petroglyph Butte Petroglyphs, NV

Overview: This "hike" is not much of a hike. It does, however, showcase some remote, rarely seen Desert Archaic petroglyphs, including fertility symbols.


Warning: The site is REMOTE. REMOTE! You are well over 100 miles from the nearest gas station, approximately 17 miles from the nearest paved road. There is little shade anywhere within the surrounding desert. The nearest named settlement is a ghost town. You are on your own.History: Several thousand years ago the people that archaeologists now call the Desert Archaic people roamed across the high arid basins of the the Nevada interior. One such band, finding shelter and water along what is today called Moore's Creek stopped to etch images in the volcanic tuff at the base of the a small butte. These designs include wavy lines, circles, and abstract designs. There are also numerous vulva representations, leading archaeologists to believe that this site served as a sort of fertility site or location for fertility rituals.

Hike: The hike is really just wandering up the dry wash as far as you like, looking at the rock walls for petroglyphs. Some of the best glyphs are located right near the parking area.

Water Sources: Moore's Creek flows pretty much year round at the road crossing, even in a drought year at the end of June. Cows know this as well and use it as a primary water source. Use good judgement.

Camping: Possible at the campsite and surrounding BLM lands. There is a wildcat fire pit at the parking area.

2012-06-25 PaleoRob