description Chalfant Petroglyphs Overview
The Chalfant Petroglyph Site, also known as CA-MNO-7, is an archaeological site in the Chalfant Valley volcanic tablelands above Bishop in Mono County, eastern California. Its rock art belongs to the Great Basin tradition and includes abstract and figurative designs carved into exposed stone surfaces. The site covers about 3.5 acres and was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 2000, making it relevant to visitors and researchers studying regional rock art in the Owens Valley.
help Chalfant Petroglyphs FAQ
Where is the Chalfant Petroglyph Site and how do I visit it?
The site, recorded as CA-MNO-7, lies on the Volcanic Tableland above Chalfant Valley in Mono County, eastern California, just north of Bishop. It's on public land managed by the BLM, though access to some panels has been restricted because of repeated damage.
How old are the petroglyphs at Chalfant Valley?
They belong to the Great Basin rock art tradition and are generally estimated to be hundreds to a few thousand years old. No single precise date is accepted, since rock art of this kind is very difficult to date directly.
Have the Chalfant petroglyphs been vandalized?
Unfortunately yes, the Volcanic Tableland panels have been repeatedly vandalized over the years, including paint and chisel damage that drew BLM investigations. This is why visitors are urged never to touch or trace the carvings.
What do the Chalfant petroglyph designs look like?
The rock art falls in the Great Basin Abstract style, featuring geometric and curvilinear patterns alongside some figurative elements. Designs are pecked into the volcanic rock of the tableland rather than painted.
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