The Crane Petroglyph and Historic V Bar V Ranch
The Crane Petroglyph is a must-see for anyone interested in the ancient art and culture of the Southwest.
The Crane Petroglyph Heritage Site is the largest known petroglyph site in the Verde Valley and one of the best-preserved rock art sites in Arizona. Acquired by the Coconino National Forest in 1994, this remarkable site remains open to the public for enjoyment and education about our national cultural heritage. The Verde Valley Archaeological Society and Friends of the Forest serve as partners in providing interpretive tours and on-site management, while the Red Rock Pass Program funds protection, enhanced amenities, and facility maintenance under the National Recreation Enhancement Act of 2005.
A visitor center and bookstore, operated by the Forest Service and the Arizona Natural History Association, is located about 100 yards from the parking area.
The Beaver Creek Rock Art Style
Rock art serves as archaeological data that helps identify prehistoric cultures and time periods. Various styles have been identified based on elements, unique features, relationships between elements, and manufacturing techniques. One distinctive style—the Beaver Creek Style—has been defined through studies of rock art sites in the Beaver Creek area, particularly here at Crane Petroglyph Heritage Site. This research has identified the Beaver Creek Style as diagnostic of the Southern Sinagua culture between A.D. 1150 and 1400.
The documentation of Crane Petroglyph Heritage Site has provided crucial information for defining the important characteristics of the Beaver Creek Style.
Guided Tours
A guide is always available on-site during operating hours. Guided tours are provided by both the Verde Valley Archaeological Society and Friends of the Forest. The petroglyph area is fenced and only accessible during regular visiting hours.
Planning Your Visit
Operating Hours:
Open Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday
- October - May: 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Entrance gate closes at 2:30 p.m.
- June - September: 8 a.m. to noon. Entrance gate closes at 11:30 a.m.
- Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas
Weather Considerations:
This site closes when the temperature exceeds 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
Location & Directions:
Address: 6750 Forest Service Rd 618, Rimrock, AZ 86335
GPS: 34°39'55.4"N 111°42'57.8"W
Elevation: 3,794 feet
Directions: Crane Petroglyph Heritage Site is located 2.8 miles east of the junction of I-17 and SR 179 on FR 618. Watch for the entrance on your right less than one-half mile past the Beaver Creek Day-Use Picnic Area.
Contact Information:
For trail and road conditions, call the Red Rock Ranger District Information Center at (928) 203-2900.
Visitors may also contact the Crane Petroglyph Heritage Site Visitor Center at (928) 592-0998.
Facilities:
Potable water is not available at this site. Bring your own water, or you may purchase bottled water from the visitor center.
Crane Petroglyph Heritage Site offers visitors an extraordinary opportunity to experience one of Arizona's most significant rock art collections while learning about the ancient Southern Sinagua culture that created these enduring works of art.
