White Mountain Petroglyphs

Hundreds of carved figures dot the sandstone cliffs at the White Mountain Petroglyph site in Wyoming’s Red Desert. As one of Wyoming’s premier rock art sites, the White Mountain Petroglyphs should be a stop on any tour of southwestern Wyoming. Etched into the stone surface some 200 to 1,000 years ago, several figures appear to portray bison and elk hunts while others depict geometric forms or tiny footprints. Handprints are worn into the rock as well, providing visitors with a compelling connection to those who used the site long ago. The rock face also tells of contact with European cultures. Many figures portray horses, and one warrior figure is shown brandishing a sword. While we may not understand the exact meaning of the petroglyphs, members of the Shoshone, Arapaho, and Ute tribes hold this site as sacred, and visitors should view the petroglyphs with respect. The Bureau of Land Management recommends that travelers visit the site in a vehicle with high clearance during good weather. The site is without facilities, so take plenty of food and water, and travel with a full tank of gas. Be sure to look for the Boar’s Tusk volcanic formation to your right after turning at the White Mountain Petroglyph sign.

 

Protect Our Heritage!
Do your part to protect the White Mountain Petroglyphs by refraining from leaving your own mark in the sandstone. Please do not touch the rock art and do not pick up or remove any objects or artifacts from the site.

To report vandalism, call:

BLM Rock Springs Field Office
307-352-0256

Archaeological Resources Protection Act Hotline
1-800-242-ARPA