Puerco Ruin and Petroglyphs

The Puerco Pueblo consists of sandstone block ruins with over 100 rooms arranged around a central plaza, featuring more than 800 petroglyphs on surrounding boulders.

The Ancestral Puebloan settlement flourished between 1250 and 1380 CE, serving as a significant agricultural community along the Puerco River until drought conditions led to abandonment.

The inhabitants created an extensive collection of petroglyphs depicting animals, symbols, and Kachina figures, reflecting their spiritual and artistic traditions.

The paved loop trail through the ruins starts at the Petrified Forest Road, located 10 miles from the north entrance station, with wheelchair accessibility throughout.

A circular petroglyph design functions as a solar calendar, marking the summer solstice when sunlight aligns with specific points between June 14th and 28th.

Operator: Petrified National Forest Park

Website: https://nps.gov/pefo/learn/historyculture/puerco-pueblo.htm

GPS coordinates: 34.97490,-109.79398

Latest update: March 4, 2025 17:39