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A child-friendly route along Spruce Canyon to petroglyphs left by the Ancestral Puebloans.


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Map Key

2.2

Miles

3.6

KM

91%

Runnable

6,957' 2,121 m

High

6,678' 2,035 m

Low

428' 130 m

Up

169' 51 m

Down

5%

Avg Grade (3°)

35%

Max Grade (19°)

Dogs No Dogs

Features Cave · Views

Overview

While this route passes through some of the beautiful areas of Mesa Verde, the true highlight is viewing the petroglyphs at Petroglyph Point. Left by the Ancestral Puebloans, these relics are sure to capture the imaginations of visitors young and old alike.

Runner Notes

The trail and the area are both crowded most of the time, so go early if you want an unobstructed flow. Also, there is slippery sand and rocks at times, so be careful.

Description

The first half of the trail is mostly shaded, as it is located at the bottom of the canyon. Due to this location, there will be lots of loose, fine sand along the trail bed. Along the way, enjoy a trip through time as you pass a few small dwelling remnants that can be seen from a distance. While you're appreciating the remnants that humans left behind, take a moment to appreciate the unique sandstone features in the walls.

You'll reach the petroglyphs about halfway through the trail. This is a popular stopping point, and a great place to stop for a while.

After the Petroglyphs, you start your return journey. As you work your way out of the canyon, you'll be climbing stone steps, which can be big, but are flat and clear of debris.

Eventually, visitors will curve around to the top of the canyon wall and follow the rim back to the visitors center. Though the canyon is shaded and filled with history, the canyon rim offers wonderful views! The unobstructed desert views come at a cost, and there is little to no shade up here.

Contacts

Shared By:

Micah Bontrager

Trail Ratings

  4.6 from 40 votes

#288

Overall
  4.6 from 40 votes
5 Star
68%
4 Star
28%
3 Star
5%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Recommended Route Rankings

#68

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#288

Overall
13 Views Last Month
2,589 Since Oct 1, 2015
Intermediate Intermediate

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Photos

Ancient ruins.
Mar 31, 2016 near Towaoc, CO
Petroglyphs on the Mesa Verde Petroglyph Point Trail.
Apr 14, 2016 near Towaoc, CO
Mesa Verde National Park
Apr 3, 2020 near Towaoc, CO
Mesa Verde National Park
Apr 3, 2020 near Towaoc, CO
The path winds between and under boulders (Petroglyph Point Trail).
Dec 8, 2016 near Towaoc, CO
View of the canyon from the top of the Petroglyph Point Trail.
Apr 15, 2016 near Towaoc, CO

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