Three Rivers Petroglyph Site New Mexico
Explore over 21,000 ancient petroglyphs etched by the Jornada Mogollon people on a unique desert landscape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps & soft light
Three Rivers Petroglyph Site New Mexico
Best Time
Cooler temps & soft light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore over 21,000 ancient petroglyphs etched by the Jornada Mogollon people on a unique desert landscape.
"An amazing experience, honoring the landscape and ancient petroglyphs. Cannot wait to come back!"
Wear Sturdy Shoes
The terrain is rocky and can be steep. Hiking boots or sturdy shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Bring Cash for Fee
Parking costs $5. It's best to have cash on hand for the kiosk. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Jornada Mogollon Petroglyphs
Throughout the site
Marvel at over 21,000 ancient rock carvings by the Jornada Mogollon people, dating back to 200-1450 AD.
The 0.5-Mile Loop Trail
Main trail
A short, rocky path leading through the densest cluster of ancient sunbursts, animals, and geometric designs.
Panoramic Desert Views
Longer loop trail
Experience expansive desert vistas and more dispersed petroglyphs on the longer 1.5-mile loop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Respect the Past
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Sturdy Shoes
The terrain is rocky and can be steep. Hiking boots or sturdy shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Bring Cash for Fee
Parking costs $5. It's best to have cash on hand for the kiosk. :moneybag:
Sun Protection is Key
The trails are fully exposed. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water. :sunwithface:
No Pets Allowed
Unfortunately, pets are not permitted on the trails, even service animals not fully registered. :noentrysign:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sturdy Shoes
The terrain is rocky and can be steep. Hiking boots or sturdy shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Bring Cash for Fee
Parking costs $5. It's best to have cash on hand for the kiosk. :moneybag:
Sun Protection is Key
The trails are fully exposed. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water. :sunwithface:
No Pets Allowed
Unfortunately, pets are not permitted on the trails, even service animals not fully registered. :noentrysign:
Explore Off-Trail (Carefully)
Many petroglyphs are found off the main paths. Explore respectfully and stay aware of your surroundings. :compass:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Three Rivers Petroglyph Site for its incredible concentration of ancient rock art and its accessible location. Many are awestruck by the opportunity to see thousands of petroglyphs up close. However, some find the lack of pet-friendly trails disappointing, and the intense sun exposure requires careful preparation.
"Just a few minutes off the highway. All pavement, very well groomed facility.
Walk perfect safe paths, always scanning for snakes & discovering fabulous Petroglyphs created by Your realitives. Yep, ol Grandpa/Auntie M or cousin Clem scraped - scratched hundreds of head spinning glyphs."
Bill Bailey
"Not pet friendly
I bet this place is really cool. We drove a little ways to see the petroglyphs, but then when we got here, realized I couldn't take my dog on the trail; so we left. She is not completely registered as a service dog, but that's what she is and was not permitted. The gentleman in the visitor's center was very kind. I really hope they can update their policies to include our fur babies."
Traveling wvcouple
"Wow! What an amazing experience, I cannot wait to come back. Such an honor to be able to view the landscape and petroglyphs. I wish people would respect the area and not disturb the ancient images."
Corie S.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The site is located about 30 miles north of Alamogordo, New Mexico, just off Highway 54. It's a paved drive, making it easily accessible. Many visitors find it a convenient stop when traveling between Alamogordo and other parts of southern New Mexico.
Yes, it's well-marked and situated conveniently near the highway. Look for the signs directing you to the site. The drive itself offers scenic desert views.
From Alamogordo, head north on US-70 W, then take NM-24 W towards Tularosa. Continue north on NM-54 N, and the site will be on your right. It's approximately 20 minutes north of Tularosa.
Absolutely! The roads leading to and within the site are paved and well-maintained, making it accessible for all standard vehicles.
The closest town is Tularosa, New Mexico, which offers basic amenities. For more dining options, many visitors stop in Alamogordo before or after their visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a small parking fee, typically around $5. It's recommended to bring cash for the payment kiosk. If you have a National Parks Pass, it may cover the entry fee.
The site is generally open from dawn to dusk, allowing ample time for exploration. It's advisable to check the official Bureau of Land Management (BLM) website for any seasonal changes or specific hours.
No advance booking is required. You can pay the parking fee upon arrival at the kiosk. This makes it a flexible stop for spontaneous road trips.
The fee is primarily for parking and access to the developed facilities. The petroglyphs are part of the natural landscape and are accessible once you've paid the site fee.
Yes, a valid National Parks Pass is often accepted for entry and parking fees at the Three Rivers Petroglyph Site. Confirm with the visitor center upon arrival.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main trail is a 0.5-mile loop that is rocky with some elevation gain. A longer 1.5-mile loop is also available. The entire site is exposed to the sun, so be prepared for heat.
The Three Rivers Petroglyph Site boasts over 21,000 petroglyphs, making it one of the largest rock art sites in the Southwest. You're sure to spot hundreds! 
Yes, there are restrooms and a small visitor shelter. The site is well-maintained with clear paths for exploring the petroglyphs.
Absolutely not. Touching or disturbing the petroglyphs can cause irreparable damage. Please admire them from a distance and stay on marked trails.
Yes, the short loop trail is manageable for most children, but the rocky terrain and sun exposure require supervision. It's a great educational experience about ancient cultures.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best lighting, with softer shadows that highlight the details of the petroglyphs. The 'golden hour' can create stunning shots.
Yes, photography is allowed and encouraged! It's a fantastic opportunity to capture unique ancient art. Just be mindful of other visitors and the site's preservation.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the vast desert landscapes, while a zoom lens can help get closer shots of intricate carvings.
Generally, drone usage is restricted in many protected areas, including historical sites. It's best to check with the BLM or site management for specific regulations regarding drones.
Experiment with different angles and lighting. Sometimes, shooting with the sun behind you works best, while other times, side lighting can reveal the texture of the carvings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, as the trails are fully exposed to the sun. Encourage children to observe the petroglyphs respectfully and stay on the marked paths. The site's accessibility and the sheer number of carvings make it an engaging experience for younger explorers, turning a history lesson into an exciting discovery.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
With a small parking fee and trails that can be explored in an hour or two, it’s a great way to break up a long drive. Pack some water and sturdy shoes, and you can immerse yourself in ancient history before continuing your journey. It's a highly recommended, underrated stop that offers a significant cultural experience without requiring a full day commitment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ancient Art of the Jornada Mogollon
+1These ancient artists used stone tools to carefully remove the dark outer layer of the rock, revealing the lighter rock beneath. The sheer number and concentration of petroglyphs here make it one of the largest and most significant sites of its kind in the Southwest. It's a rare opportunity to see such a vast collection of rock art in a setting that allows for direct, personal access.
+1When exploring, remember that these are not just historical artifacts but sacred expressions of a past culture. Respecting the site means observing from a distance, staying on marked paths, and leaving no trace. The experience of standing among these ancient carvings is profound, offering a tangible connection to the people who once called this desert home.
Navigating the Trails and Terrain
For those seeking a more extensive exploration and broader desert views, a longer 1.5-mile loop is available. This trail provides panoramic vistas of the surrounding Tularosa Basin and leads to more dispersed petroglyphs. While the trails are generally well-maintained, they are entirely exposed to the elements.
It's crucial to be prepared for the desert climate. Bring ample water, wear a hat, and apply sunscreen, especially during warmer months. The sun can be intense, and there is little shade along the paths. Visitors have noted that flip-flops are not ideal, and hiking shoes are highly recommended due to the rocky and uneven terrain.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit