The Deer Valley Petroglyph Preserve, previously known as the Deer Valley Rock Art Center, is a 47-acre nature preserve located in the Deer Valley area of Phoenix, Arizona. The preserve is home to over 1500 petroglyphs from the Hohokam, Patayan, and Archaic periods, which are visible on 500 basalt boulders scattered across the site.
The petroglyphs found at the Deer Valley Petroglyph Preserve are estimated to be between 500 and 5,000 years old. This wide range in age reflects the long history of human activity at the site, providing a unique glimpse into the past.
The Deer Valley Petroglyph Preserve and its museum are managed by the School of Human Evolution and Social Change, which is part of the ASU College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. The school is responsible for the preservation and operation of the site, ensuring that it remains accessible to the public for educational and recreational purposes.
The Deer Valley Petroglyph Preserve offers the public numerous ways to explore and learn about the site. In addition to self-guided exploration, the preserve offers educational resources about the indigenous cultures associated with the site. These resources include publications, guided tours, and lectures, providing a comprehensive understanding of the site's historical and cultural significance.
History & Anthropology Nature & Natural History Archaeology Ethnology Geology
Monday | Closed |
Tuesday | 8:00 – 14:00 |
Wednesday | 8:00 – 14:00 |
Thursday | 8:00 – 14:00 |
Friday | 8:00 – 14:00 |
Saturday | 8:00 – 14:00 |
Sunday | Closed |
3711 W Deer Valley Rd, Glendale
No exhibitions in Deer Valley Petroglyph Preserve have been found.
Deer Valley Petroglyph Preserve has 1 rating.
The Deer Valley Petroglyph Preserve in Glendale, United States, offers visitors an opportunity to explore ancient rock art in a natural desert setting. This outdoor museum showcases over 1,500 petroglyphs created by Native American peoples, some dating back as far as 5,000 years. The preserve features a quarter-mile trail that allows visitors to view these prehistoric carvings up close.
Visitors generally appreciate the educational value of the site, praising the informative exhibits and knowledgeable staff who provide context about the petroglyphs and the cultures that created them. The self-guided tour with accompanying audio guide is often highlighted as a positive feature, allowing guests to explore at their own pace.
The natural beauty of the desert landscape adds to the overall experience, with many finding the combination of history and nature compelling. The short trail is generally considered easy to navigate and accessible for most visitors.
However, some visitors note that the site is relatively small and can be fully explored in about an hour, which may not meet expectations for those anticipating a longer experience. Additionally, the outdoor nature of the preserve means that weather conditions can significantly impact the visit, with some finding the experience less enjoyable during hot summer months.
A few reviewers mention that while the petroglyphs are interesting, they can be difficult to see clearly in some areas due to weathering or distance. Some visitors also express a desire for more extensive on-site facilities or amenities.
Overall, the Deer Valley Petroglyph Preserve is generally well-regarded for its educational value and the opportunity to view ancient rock art in its original setting. It's particularly appealing to those interested in archaeology, Native American history, or outdoor experiences, but may be less engaging for visitors seeking a more extensive museum experience.
This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.
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