Crane Heritage Site

V Bar V Heritage Site k344y (Atlas Obscura User)

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When you first encounter this massive wall embossed with 700, 1000-year-old petroglyphs, it’s hard not to be impressed. After centuries of wear and erosion, it’s amazing how clear and vibrant the drawings have remained. The entire V Bar V Heritage Site contains around 13 panels containing more than 1,000 petroglyphs. The various panels are also some of the easiest to locate.

It’s believed that these marvelous carvings were created by the Southern Sinagua culture between 900 and 1350. The petroglyphs were created in the “Beaver Creek Rock Art Style,” which has been seen in other carvings across the heritage site and other rock art sites along Beaver Creek.

Know Before You Go

Call first to see if there will be a docent on site. Just viewing the glyphs is great, but having someone explain the history and describe what you're seeing makes a more fulfilling experience.

The site is open year-round from 9 a.m.- 3 p.m., Monday through Friday. The site does close due to inclement weather. There are ample parking spaces, a visitor center, restrooms, and a small store on site. The walk back to the viewing area is an easy hike. However, the petroglyphs are not wheelchair accessible.

You'll be able to get within 10-12 feet of the drawings, so even a cell phone camera will be able to capture some decent images.