Visiting the Golf Course Petroglyph Panel Near Moab, Utah

Explore Moab’s hidden cultural treasures at the Golf Course Petroglyph Panel, an easily accessible site showcasing ancient rock carvings. Situated close to town, this brief excursion offers an incredible glimpse into the history and culture of the region’s earliest inhabitants. Ideal for visitors of all ages, this short outing combines stunning scenery with fascinating historical insights.

Trail Overview

  • Distance: Less than 0.5 miles round trip

  • Difficulty: Easy

  • Elevation Gain: Minimal

  • Estimated Time: 20 to 30 minutes

  • Trail Type: Out and Back

Getting to the Trailhead

The Golf Course Petroglyph Panel is conveniently located along Westwater Drive near the Moab Golf Course. Starting from downtown Moab, drive south on Main Street (US Highway 191) for about four miles. Turn left onto Spanish Trail Road, then quickly right onto Westwater Drive, following the signs toward the Moab Golf Course. Parking is available along the roadside in a small gravel area clearly marked for petroglyph viewing.

Amenities like restrooms or drinking water are not provided, so plan your visit accordingly.

Trail map illustrating easy access to the Golf Course Petroglyph Panel near Moab, including parking location and panel viewing area.

Visiting the Golf Course Petroglyph Panel

From the parking area, follow the clearly defined, short dirt path toward the rocky cliffs, about a five-minute walk away. The trail is flat, easy to navigate, and suitable for visitors of all ages and abilities, including young children.

When you reach the panel, you’ll find numerous impressive petroglyphs etched clearly into the sandstone cliffs. The artwork, created by the Ancestral Puebloan and Fremont cultures, is estimated to be over a thousand years old. Look closely to spot detailed depictions of human figures, animals, hunting scenes, and intriguing abstract designs.

Understanding the Petroglyphs

The Golf Course Petroglyph Panel is renowned for its clear and abundant imagery, making it a favorite spot among history buffs and photographers alike. The artwork provides valuable insight into the lives, beliefs, and storytelling traditions of the area’s Indigenous people. Interpretive signs near the panel offer additional information about the site’s cultural significance and historical context.

Best Time to Visit

Early morning or late afternoon is the ideal time for visiting, as softer sunlight provides better conditions for viewing and photographing the petroglyphs. Visiting during these cooler periods also enhances comfort, particularly during the hot summer months.

What to Bring

  • Water to stay hydrated

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Sunscreen and a hat for protection

  • A camera or smartphone for photos

  • Binoculars (optional, for viewing distant petroglyph details)

Safety and Preservation

Protecting this cultural treasure is essential. Follow Leave No Trace principles by viewing petroglyphs from a respectful distance, avoiding touching or disturbing the fragile artwork, and staying on designated pathways. Responsible visitation helps preserve the Golf Course Petroglyph Panel for future visitors.

Nearby Attractions

Enhance your Moab experience by exploring other nearby rock art sites such as Birthing Rock and Moonflower Canyon, or enjoy additional scenic trails at Mill Creek Canyon or Hidden Valley Trail. Moab’s surrounding areas offer endless opportunities for adventure, culture, and exploration.

Discover Moab’s Ancient History Today

The Golf Course Petroglyph Panel provides an easy yet meaningful encounter with Moab’s ancient past. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking an enjoyable, brief outing, this site offers a perfect balance of cultural enrichment and stunning desert scenery.

Plan your visit to the Golf Course Petroglyph Panel today and experience firsthand the remarkable artistry of ancient civilizations right outside Moab.