Point of Interest
Hike the Petroglyph Trail along the Rio Bonito and glimpse into the past. At the midpoint of the Trail, in the river bed, is Petroglyph Rock. Etched on this rock are depictions of an ancient people known as the Jornada Mogollon who have long since left the area. Very little evidence has stood the test of time, but here on the Petroglyph Trail remains a link to the culture and lifestyle of these ancient people.
Length: 2.15 Miles
Loop Trail: Yes
Primary Trail Type: Backcountry
Additional Trail Types: -
Agency: Bureau of Land Management
Entry Fee: -
Fee Notes: -
Parking Fee: -
Permit Fee: -
Trail Use Notes:
None
Seasonal Use Notes:
None
Location: At Ft. Stanton-Snowy River Cave National Conservation Area, 10 miles north of Ruidoso.
County: Lincoln County
State: NM
Townships: -
Driving Directions:
The Trail can be reached from NM 220, west of the Sierra Blanca Regional Airport. Follow the highway signs stating “Upper Rio Bonito†to the bottom of the hill and turn left for approximately one mile until you reach the trailhead (high-clearance vehicles are recommended). The loop trail is approximately 2.1 miles in total length and is easy-to-moderate hiking with a few hills and areas with loose footing. Plan to spend approximately one hour on the Trail.
Average Grade: -
Maximum Grade: 34%
Elevation High: 6526 Feet
Elevation Low: 6425 Feet
Elevation Gain: 331 Feet
Average Width: -
Minimum Width: -
Primary Surface: Soil
Additional Surfaces: Rock, smooth
Year Designated: 1992
