Petroglyph National Monument, Albuquerque (must see)

The West Mesa of Albuquerque is home to Petroglyph National Monument, a protected area spanning 17 miles (27 km) and covering 7,236 acres (29.28 km2). This volcanic basalt escarpment dominates the western horizon of the city and is managed cooperatively by the National Park Service and the City of Albuquerque. The monument's western boundary is defined by a series of dormant fissure volcanoes, including Butte, Bond, Vulcan, Black, and JA.

Petroglyph National Monument safeguards numerous cultural and natural resources, including five volcanic cones, hundreds of archaeological sites, and an estimated 24,000 petroglyph images carved by Ancestral Pueblo peoples and early Spanish settlers. These images depict recognizable animals, people, brands, crosses, and more complex designs whose meanings may have been known only to the carver. They are a testament to the cultural heritage of people who have long since moved on from the area, and the monument provides a means of protecting these lands and sites for future generations to enjoy. The monument is also managed in a way that allows for recreational use, with visitors able to explore four major sites: Boca Negra Canyon, Rinconada Canyon, Piedras Marcadas Canyon, and the Volcano Day Use trails.

Why You Should Visit:
This monument offers great cultural interest along with an opportunity for physical engagement with the environment and family fun, seeking the petroglyphs marvelously preserved throughout. Very inexpensive, as well.

Tip:
Go to the Visitor Center first to gain an awareness of the several trails to see the Petroglyphs (each hike is a little different, and you must drive to it first).
Be sure to bring water for the longer hikes, and don't bring sandals as the lava rock is like glass!