description Three Rivers Petroglyphs Overview
Three Rivers Petroglyphs in New Mexico is a BLM-managed site featuring more than 21,000 individual rock carvings attributed primarily to the Jornada Mogollon culture (900–1400 CE).
insights Why this score
Three Rivers Petroglyphs ranks #37 of 229 in the Petroglyph ranking, behind Diepkloof Rock Shelter, ahead of Matobo Hills Rock Art.
Exceptional scale with over 21,000 carvings, strong archaeological reputation and public access; imagery quality varies across the field.
help Three Rivers Petroglyphs FAQ
Who carved the Three Rivers Petroglyphs?
Most of the carvings are attributed to the Jornada Mogollon people, who lived in southern New Mexico. The Bureau of Land Management dates the site's principal carving activity to roughly AD 200 through 1450.
What images appear at Three Rivers Petroglyphs?
Visitors can see geometric designs, masks, handprints, animals, birds, and human figures pecked through dark rock patina. More than 21,000 individual images have been recorded across the site.
How long is the petroglyph trail?
The main Petroglyph Trail is approximately one mile long and climbs along a rocky ridge. A separate short Village Trail leads to the remains of a Jornada Mogollon settlement associated with the people who likely made the carvings.
Can visitors touch the petroglyphs at Three Rivers?
The carvings should be viewed without touching, tracing, chalking, or climbing on the marked rocks. Three Rivers is protected federal land managed by the BLM's Las Cruces District, and disturbing archaeological resources is prohibited.
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