Free Range Explorer

When you travel from the Salt Lake City area on Interstate 15 South towards St. George, UT or Las Vegas, NV you’ll pass through Parowan, UT. Not many people have discovered the Parowan Gap Petroglyphs site, approximately 10.5 miles west of I-15 on the paved Gap Road. These are very distinct and easy to see images. If you enjoy history it’s well worth the stop. Also, it’s a great stop for kids during a long drive.

The petroglyphs are carved into sedimentary rock about 15 million years old. According to Utah.com the carvings are thought to be the work of several cultural groups and represent a long period of use by Native cultures several centuries ago. It’s a great are to view evidence of the Ancients who lived in the area 100s of years ago.

The carvings are behind a short metal fence and very close to the path making them easy to see and photograph. There isn’t shade in the area so be prepared to be in direct sunlight, bring a hat and your own water.

The site has a large gravel parking lot, rustic restroom and picnic area. The area is wheelchair accessible (not the bathroom).

When you’re ready to leave you can return the same way to I-15, or follow UT 130 to I-15 towards Cedar City and St. George.

Photos by John McFadden ©

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Thanks, John the Free Range Explorer.