Hiking Out to the Petroglyphs

About 20 miles outside of Rock Springs, out by Boar's Tusk and the sand dunes, are some rock formations that have many figures carved into the surface. Here is what the Wyoming Tourism site had to say:
"Hundreds of carved figures dot the sandstone cliffs at the White Mountain Petroglyph site in Wyoming’s Red Desert. As one of Wyoming’s premier rock art sites, the White Mountain Petroglyphs should be a stop on any tour of southwestern Wyoming. Etched into the stone surface some 200 to 1,000 years ago, several figures appear to portray bison and elk hunts while others depict geometric forms or tiny footprints. Handprints are worn into the rock as well, providing visitors with a compelling connection to those who used the site long ago."

We went down a dirt road for about 20 to 30 minutes, then parked at a little rest area. A fifteen minute hike later brought us to the base of the cliffs.


Walk it off, sister!

It was terribly windy today, more at the beginning than the end, but I was thankful all the kids made it.

The sandstone cliffs.


A baby inside the mama, perhaps buffalo.

Sammy took it pretty well. His first hike, and in Wyoming wind!

Licking the backpack was his main occupation. I wonder how many grandchildren have been hauled around in this thing?


Can you see it? Think reindeer.

Emma was so independent today. Every time we tried to help her climb over a rough spot, she would scream at us to leave her alone. Sheesh, two-year-olds.


I think this one is my favorite, the warrior astride his mount, wearing a headdress, and raising his spear.

Connor was fascinated by this small cave. He hemmed and hawed, pestering everyone to go in the cave before he would, because he thought it was scary.


I love the beauty of rock formations. So many interesting shapes, and wonderful warm stone colors.

Our one family picture of the day. There were a few other hikers out there, two older men, and a teenage boy about Gil's age, maybe older. One of them graciously took our picture, but of course, Connor and Emma were not cooperative. Gil is at High Adventure Camp this week, acquiring some blisters by going on long hikes.

Connor finally convinced us to go in the cave ahead of him, so I crawled in to show him it was safe, he climbed in after me, and then he didn't want to leave. What boy doesn't love a secret hideout?

On the way back, riding in the truck, Dani shared her MP3 earbuds with Emma, who was fascinated by the music coming out of them. "Look, she's just like me, " Dani said, "everyone should have a Mini Me." Oh, boy, those should be some fun years ahead.

We topped off our little trip with some yummy Chicken Bacon Artichoke pizza from Papa Murphy's. It's surprisingly light on the waistline, for a pizza anyway.