View the Glyphs at Dinosaur National Monument

If you’re like most visitors to Utah’s Dinosaur National Monument, the “wall of bones” will be your primary destination. Of course those fossils are a must-see, but also leave some time during your visit to view ancient remains of the human kind— in the form of petroglyphs (rock carvings) and pictographs (rock drawings). Because the sandstone cliffs here are darkened with desert varnish, a naturally formed stain of iron and manganese oxides, it provides an ideal canvas for these glyphs. Many sites in the monument are easy to access and are just a short walk from the road; others require hiking. Stop first at the Quarry Visitor Center for a map and information, and then drive to as many sites as time and interest allow. You’ll see quite a few fragile designs left by the Fremont People over 1,000 years ago.

The first glyph site offers up-close viewing and is located less than a mile from the Quarry Visitor Center along the Tour of the Tilted Rocks Scenic Drive. Park off to the side of the road and walk about 200 feet to the “Swelter Shelter.” Interpretive signs provide some insight into the glyphs and the Native Americans who created them.

The Fremont People farmed corn, beans, and squash in addition to following a mostly hunter/gatherer lifestyle. They often occupied their dwelling sites for only part of a year, following the mule deer, bighorn sheep, and water sources as necessary. As you view the different human-like figures, animal-like figures, and abstract designs, you’ll notice that a “Classic Vernal Style” predominates in Dinosaur National Monument. Human figures typically have trapezoidal bodies, often with elaborate decorations such as headdresses, earrings, necklaces, and shields. The animal figures include recognizable bighorn sheep, birds, snakes, and lizards. Purely abstract or geometric designs also are common. If you decide to do much hiking in the back country, know that the only poisonous snake found in the monument is the midget-faded rattlesnake, a subspecies of the western rattlesnake, so wearing snake gaiters is a good idea.  Many plants, including cactus, greasewood, Russian thistle, and others can scratch, stick, or otherwise be dangerous, so regular hiking gaiters are also a good option to protect your lower legs.
 
Of course the million-dollar question is what do the glyphs mean? Many theories exist as to their original significance and purpose, but no one really knows for sure. Some believe the images are important battle records or calendars, or perhaps directions to water or food sources. Others dismiss them as the prehistoric equivalent to graffiti. We may never know the meaning of the glyphs with any certainty, but everyone can agree that these rare images are special and should be protected. Please do not touch!  For more information, visit the Dinosaur National Monument website.

Enjoy the Glyphs at Dinosaur National Monument