Three Rivers Petroglyph Park and other Alamogordo, NM Off The Beaten Path Tips

If you’re on State Highway 54 between Carriozo and Alamogordo, do yourself a favor and take the 5-mile detour (10 miles round trip) to visit Three Rivers Petroglyph Park. There are over 20,000 petroglyphs concentrated in an area about a half-mile from the parking lot. The number and quality of petroglyphs is staggering. They have been applied to a basalt outcropping on top of which the trail winds. In the background to the east are the stunning Sacramento Mountains and a small range of hills to the north whose name escape me. I would highly recommend going in the late afternoon/early evening to get the best light for photos as the sun at that time is shining on the mountains. There is a $3 fee to walk the trail to the petroglyphs.

You are allowed (and I would encourage) to go off the trail as well to better view the petroglyphs. Be careful, however, not to step on or otherwise touch the petroglyphs so as to save them for future generations to enjoy.

Located on State Highway 54 between Tularosa and Carrizozo. RV hookups and tent camping available.

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Phone: 505-525-4300