Newspaper Rock

Overview

A quick, rewarding stop on the park road, Newspaper Rock lets you scan a cluster of boulders carved with over 650 petroglyphs. You’re looking down from a fenced overlook, so think of it as reading many pages at once — dense, varied markings spread across fallen rocks below.

What You’ll See

From the catwalk/overlook you can pick out abstract designs, animals, human figures, and symbolic motifs. The panels were created over many centuries by ancestral peoples along the Puerco River, pecked into desert varnish on sandstone. The mounted scopes make a big difference for spotting detail.

How the Stop Works

Turn off the main park road to a signed spur with a parking area. A short paved walkway leads to the overlook platform. You cannot go down to the boulders — the hillsides are unstable — so all viewing is from above. Expect this to be a brief stop unless you linger with the scopes.

Why It’s Special

Few places let you see such a dense concentration of rock art from a single vantage point. It’s an easy win on the scenic drive and a compelling peek into the area’s deep human history.

Tips for Seeing More

Bring binoculars or a camera with a good zoom for details and photos. It’s an open, sunny spot — pack water, a hat, and sunscreen. Don’t expect wildlife here; the star is the rock art.

Best Time to Visit

Early morning or late afternoon offers better contrast on the carvings and softer light for photos. Midday tends to be busier and glare can wash out the panels. Typical hours are 7am–7pm; people often spend 10–15 minutes here.

Pair It With

Combine this stop with nearby Puerco Pueblo to round out the story of who lived and farmed along the Puerco River.