Petroglyph Point Trail: Mesa Verde National Park
Petroglyph Point Trail is located in Colorado’s Mesa Verde National Park. The hike begins at the Spruce Tree House Trail near the Mesa Verde Museum. Before hiking this trail, the National Park Service requires you to register at the trailhead or at the Museum.
Petroglyph Point can be a tough trail for those who do not hike often. It’s a 2.4-mile loop with roughly 400 feet of elevation gain. It’s highly recommended that you hike counterclockwise to knock out the steepest sections first. Along the edge of Spruce Canyon, you can expect a fairly rugged trail with some exposed sections and steep edges. Be prepared to squeeze between some boulders, negotiate steep and narrow stone stairs, and do some minor rock scrambling.
- Trail Name: Petroglyph Point Trail
- Trailhead Location: Spruce Tree House Overlook
- Distance: 2.4 Miles Roundtrip
- Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
- Elevation Gain: ~400
- Type: Loop
- Features: Rock Art, Canyon Views
- Dogs: No
While this hike is tough, the reward makes it worth it. As you pass by alcoves along the cliffs, keep an eye out for ruins. Also, this trail is the only one in the park where hikers can observe petroglyphs. Along the way, you can expect great views of Spruce and Navajo Canyons. Watch for birds of prey soaring overhead.
If you are visiting in the summer, plan to get to the trailhead early to beat the heat. Regardless of your arrival time, make sure to bring plenty of water. Some sections are very steep.
Other things to do near Petroglyph Point Trail
While you are there, make sure to check out the Spruce Tree House; it adds a half-mile loop and a steep 100 feet of elevation. If you are looking for a more challenging hike, the Spruce Canyon Trail also begins near the museum. If you have the time, the Morefield Campground inside Mesa Verde is a great place to stay during a visit to the park. Campers often see wild turkeys and mule deer from their site.
