Sugar Grove Petroglyphs

Sugar Grove Petroglyphs is an archaeological site containing 48 distinct petroglyphs carved into Dunkard sandstone, displaying abstract patterns, birds, footprints, human figures, and animal tracks. The carvings sit on approximately 404 acres of forested private land located northwest of the Whiteley Creek bridge.

Indigenous peoples created these petroglyphs during the Woodland period, and the site was first documented in scholarly literature around 1931. It was subsequently included in the National Register of Historic Places for preservation purposes.

The carvings display indigenous artistic expression through depictions of birds, footprints, and human forms that reflect the spiritual and daily life of those who created them. The variety of subjects suggests how the people connected with their natural environment.

The site is located on private forested land accessible from Pennsylvania Route 88, which means advance permission is needed to visit. It is best to come during drier seasons when forest paths are more passable and easier to navigate.

This is one of only four documented petroglyph sites in Pennsylvania, making it exceptionally rare in this region. Its elevated location above flood-prone areas has protected the carvings from natural disasters over many centuries.

Location: Pennsylvania

GPS coordinates: 39.82667,-79.96111

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:24