About Little Black Mountain Petroglyph Site
The Little Black Mountain Petroglyph Site contains numerous, well-preserved petroglyphs that hold deep cultural meaning and historic importance. The trail is appropriate for beginner hikers and interpretive signs can be found along the trail.The site has over 500 petroglyphs made by members of several different American Indian groups over an 8,000-year period.The site was used for several purposes including religious, ceremonial, and seasonal observations. Petroglyphs deliberately placed on boulders use the interplay of light and shadow to show seasonal changes. Rock writing that might indicate calendar observations include spirals, circles, bisected circles, plants, baskets, and constellations.There are many things to do and places to stay while visiting the Arizona Strip. Nearby public lands include BLM Utah's Red Mountain Wilderness, Red Cliffs National Conservation Area, and Dixie National Forest’s Pine Valley Ranger District.Read these pro tips to enjoy sharing these public lands with a variety of recreation users.Hours and SeasonsLittle Black Mountain Petroglyph Site is open all year.Roads may be impassable during heavy rain. Check the weather and contact the BLM for current road conditions at 435-688-3200.Features and ServicesDrinking Water: There is no drinking water available. Bring plenty of water.Toilets: A vault toilet is available for public use at the trailhead.Cell Phone and Internet: Not reliable.Pets: Pets, including service dogs, are allowed. Please follow Leave No Trace ethics.Safety and ConditionsYou are responsible for your own safety. Call 911 to contact local law enforcement, obtain emergency services, or report a fire. While enjoying your visit, keep in mind that there is no first aid available on-site. Let someone know where you are and what to do if you do not return on time.Be prepared. Visitors could encounter hazards such as venomous reptiles and invertebrates, extreme heat or cold, or flash flood conditions. Dress in layers appropriate
How to Get There
For awareness, the route to the trailhead recently changed as the state has leased land for a gravel pit within the main access road to Little Black Mountain Petroglyph Site.High-clearance vehicles are a must. Four-wheel drive vehicles are recommended. Avoid these routes when wet or rain is expected.Take the Southern Parkway to River Road Exit. Take River Road south into Arizona for 0.3 miles. Turn left and follow the un-improved routes for 4.5 miles. Alternatively, take the Southern Parkway (Highway 9) to Warner Valley Exit 10. Take two rights onto the frontage road and drive south for 4.2 miles. Turn right following the road 0.1 miles around the ranch. At the stateline, turn right onto BLM 1124 and follow 2.3 miles to the site.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Little Black Mountain Petroglyph Site
Heading to Little Black Mountain Petroglyph Site? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Little Black Mountain Petroglyph Site?
No central reservation system listed for Little Black Mountain Petroglyph Site. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/1705) for the latest entry policy and availability.
Are pets allowed at Little Black Mountain Petroglyph Site?
Pets are mentioned in this park’s information. Specific rules (leash requirements, banned areas) vary by location — verify on the official site before bringing your dog.
How do I get to Little Black Mountain Petroglyph Site?
For awareness, the route to the trailhead recently changed as the state has leased land for a gravel pit within the main access road to Little Black Mountain Petroglyph Site.High-clearance vehicles are a must. Four-wheel drive vehicles are recommended. Avoid these routes when wet or rain is expected.Take the Southern Parkway to River Road Exit. Take River Road south into Arizona for 0.3 miles. Tur…
How do I contact Little Black Mountain Petroglyph Site?
You can reach the park at phone: 435-688-3200 or email: BLM_AZ_ASDOWEB@blm.gov.
References & Official Resources