V-Bar-V Heritage Site
Discover ancient rock art at V-Bar-V Heritage Site, home to one of North America's largest petroglyph collections, offering a glimpse into ancestral l...
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds.
V-Bar-V Heritage Site
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover ancient rock art at V-Bar-V Heritage Site, home to one of North America's largest petroglyph collections, offering a glimpse into ancestral life.
"One of the most peaceful places I love to visit, and can spend hours here."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The .75-mile trail is pea gravel, so sturdy walking shoes are recommended. :athletic_shoe:
Arrive Early for Parking
The parking lot can fill up, especially during peak times. Arrive early to ensure a spot. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
V-Bar-V Petroglyph Panel
Main petroglyph viewing area
Marvel at one of North America's largest collections of ancient rock art, featuring intricate symbols and carvings.

Visitor Center Insights
Visitor Center
Learn about the history and cultural significance of the petroglyphs from knowledgeable docents.

The Sun Calendar Explanation
Petroglyph Panel
Discover how ancient tribes used petroglyphs and the sun to track seasons and plan agricultural cycles.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Experience
Respect the Ancient Art
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The .75-mile trail is pea gravel, so sturdy walking shoes are recommended. :athletic_shoe:
Arrive Early for Parking
The parking lot can fill up, especially during peak times. Arrive early to ensure a spot. :car:
Respect the Petroglyphs
Never touch or disturb the ancient rock art. Admire from a distance. :pray:
Chat with the Docents
Docents offer invaluable historical context and stories about the petroglyphs. :speech_balloon:
What are some inexpensive things to do in Sedona?
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The .75-mile trail is pea gravel, so sturdy walking shoes are recommended. :athletic_shoe:
Arrive Early for Parking
The parking lot can fill up, especially during peak times. Arrive early to ensure a spot. :car:
Respect the Petroglyphs
Never touch or disturb the ancient rock art. Admire from a distance. :pray:
Chat with the Docents
Docents offer invaluable historical context and stories about the petroglyphs. :speech_balloon:
Bring Water
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months, as there are limited facilities on the trail. :droplet:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the V-Bar-V Heritage Site for its pristine petroglyphs and the insightful guidance provided by knowledgeable docents. Many find it a peaceful and educational experience, highlighting the unique opportunity to learn about ancient cultures and their connection to the land. While the parking fee is noted, most agree the experience is well worth the small cost.
"Quaint, little Visitor Center in a beautiful wooded valley that used to be the home of the V-V ranch. 3/4 mile pea gravel trail to a amazing petroglyph panel where a park service docent will guide you through the discovery and history. One of the most peaceful places I love to visit, and can spend hours here."
Jared Dana
"It's called the Crane Petroglyph National Heritage Site now. Amazing experience. Talked with the docent for 2 hours. The story of unlocking the utility of the site is fascinating."
John Pavlakis
"The petroglyphs here are pristine and the docent was very knowledgeable. The .5 mile walk to this hidden gem is well worth it. Note that the parking lot is a fee area."
Arizona Dog Mom
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The V-Bar-V Heritage Site is located in the Verde Valley, a scenic drive from Sedona. Follow AZ-89A South towards Cottonwood, then take a left onto Forest Road 152 (also known as Long Valley Road). The site is well-marked from there. The drive offers beautiful Arizona landscapes.
Public transportation options to the V-Bar-V Heritage Site are limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle. Consider ride-sharing services if you are in the nearby towns, but confirm availability beforehand.
From Sedona, take AZ-89A South. Turn left onto Forest Road 152 (Long Valley Road). Follow signs for V-Bar-V Heritage Site. The journey is approximately 30-40 minutes from Sedona.
Yes, there is a parking lot available at the V-Bar-V Heritage Site. However, it can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons and weekends. Arriving early is recommended.
Yes, V-Bar-V Heritage Site makes for an excellent day trip from Phoenix. The drive is about 2 hours each way, allowing ample time to explore the petroglyphs and surrounding area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a fee to enter the V-Bar-V Heritage Site, which covers parking and access to the trails and visitor center. It's a small fee that supports the preservation of this important historical site.
The operating hours for V-Bar-V Heritage Site typically align with daylight hours, but it's best to check the official website or local listings for the most current times, as they can vary seasonally.
Generally, reservations are not required for individual visitors to V-Bar-V Heritage Site. However, for group tours or special events, it's advisable to inquire about booking in advance.
Yes, there is an entrance fee for V-Bar-V Heritage Site, which is often a per-vehicle fee for parking. This fee helps maintain the site and its interpretive programs.
Discounts may be available for certain groups such as seniors, children, or those with specific passes. It's recommended to check the official V-Bar-V Heritage Site website or inquire at the visitor center for current discount information.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main trail to the petroglyph panel is a .75-mile loop that is well-maintained and surfaced with pea gravel. It's relatively easy and suitable for most fitness levels, offering a pleasant walk through a wooded valley.
Yes, guided tours are often available at V-Bar-V Heritage Site, led by knowledgeable docents. These tours provide in-depth information about the petroglyphs, their meanings, and the history of the site.
You can see a diverse array of petroglyphs, including human figures, animal shapes, geometric designs, and symbols representing celestial events and daily life. Some are believed to have been used as a solar calendar.
Yes, V-Bar-V Heritage Site is suitable for children. The short, easy trail and the fascinating rock art can capture their imagination. It's a great educational experience for families.
Bring water, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes. Binoculars can enhance your viewing of the petroglyphs from a distance. A camera is a must for capturing the ancient art.
📸 📸 Photography
The best times for photography are during the 'golden hours' – early morning and late afternoon. The low-angle sunlight can highlight the carvings and create dramatic shadows, revealing more detail.
Tripod usage policies can vary. It's advisable to check the site's regulations or inquire at the visitor center. Generally, to protect the site and ensure visitor flow, they might be restricted in certain areas.
You can expect to capture stunning images of ancient petroglyphs etched into rock faces, the scenic desert landscape, and the unique symbolism left by ancient peoples. Focus on details and textures.
Drone usage is typically prohibited at historical and cultural heritage sites like V-Bar-V to protect the artifacts and ensure a peaceful visitor experience. Always check local regulations.
Use a moderate aperture (f/8-f/11) for good depth of field. Adjust ISO as needed for lighting conditions, and consider a polarizing filter to reduce glare and enhance contrast on the rock surfaces.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ancient Art of Petroglyphs
Visitors can observe a variety of symbols, including human and animal figures, geometric patterns, and abstract designs. Many of these symbols are believed to have specific meanings, relating to daily life, hunting, ceremonies, and cosmology. The presence of both masculine (often square or labyrinthine) and feminine (often circular) symbols has been noted, offering insights into ancient societal structures and beliefs. The preservation of these petroglyphs is paramount, and visitors are strictly reminded to admire them from a distance and never touch them to ensure their longevity for future generations.
Understanding the Solar Calendar
Park rangers and docents often explain how specific markings align with the sun's position at different times of the year, such as solstices and equinoxes. This sophisticated understanding of astronomy highlights the advanced knowledge and observational skills of the ancient inhabitants. Learning about this aspect of the site provides a deeper appreciation for the ingenuity and cultural practices of these early communities.
The V-Bar-V Ranch History
The transition from a ranch to a protected heritage site underscores the importance of preserving the archaeological and cultural significance of the petroglyphs. The site now serves as an educational resource, allowing visitors to connect with the past and learn about the people who left their mark on this land centuries ago.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit