The Deer Valley Petroglyph Preserve in Phoenix offers an easy way to see petroglyphs and learn about the first people in the Phoenix Valley!
With a small indoor museum and a short walking trail, visitors will get an inside look at how life was hundreds of years ago. The kids liked seeing the tools on display (and wanted to try to make their own hatchet, ha). The museum was a good combination of visuals and reading displays. That said, our kids only spent about 10 minutes browsing before being ready to move on.
Once outside, the 1/4 mile graveled trail meanders around to give some up-close look at real petroglyphs. Bring binoculars if possible because there are some good ones up on the hillside too! And don’t forget the kid’s booklet at the admissions desk – this was super fun, adding more to the kids learning time.
If you’re looking for the simplest way to see petroglyphs in the Phoenix area, this preserve is worth a visit. Our favorite place to date to see petroglyphs is definitely this trail out in Gold Canyon. Worth a visit if you’re up for a hike!
The Deer Valley Petroglyph Preserve in Phoenix is open Wednesday–Saturday, 8 a.m.–2 p.m.. Admission is $9/adult, $5/children ages 7-12 (6 and under free). A free audio tour is included, accessed via QR code on your phone. There are restrooms inside the museum. Note that there is little shade on the trail, so bring hats and sunscreen for sure. Strollers are welcome. There are a few shade structures to rest at along the way.
Deer Valley Petroglyph Preserve
3711 W. Deer Valley Road
Phoenix, AZ 85308
