Cresent Wash Petroglyphs

Total Miles1.8
Technical Rating
3Easy
Best TimeSpring, Summer, Fall, Winter
Trail TypeFull-Width Road
Accessible By
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Trail Overview

This is a destination trail that leads to the Crescent Wash Petroglyph site. Follow the unnamed track 1.8-miles to a parking site. This rated 3 trail is 3.6 miles round trip and is easily accessible from Interstate 70. This site is located on the very south end of the Book Cliffs area, which is rich in ancient Rock Art. Once at the parking area (38.9722, -109.80966). Start hiking around as nearly every large boulder has some sort of petroglyph chipped into one of its faces. From the parking area there are three major sites directly to the north (38.97244, -109.80968 / 38.97247, -109.8098 / 38.97262, -109.80959) and four more sites to the east (38.97168, -109.80816 / 38.97231, -109.80787 / 38.97273, -109.80762 / 38.97285, -109.8081). Although this trail is open to all, the last half mile gets a bit sandy and is not recommended for 2WD or vehicles with minimal clearance. The question to ask is "Were these rocks located here when these were carved, or were they high on the cliff line and have fallen over the years"? If they fell, how many of the rocks above also have petroglyphs carved on them? Cell service was adequate through the entire trail. The nearest services are 30. miles south in Moab or 20-miles west in Green River.

Photos of Cresent Wash Petroglyphs

Difficulty

Trail consisting of loose rocks, dirt, and sand with some slickrock surfaces, mud holes possible, no steps higher than 12". 4WD may be required, aggressive tires a plus.

Technical Rating

3

Status Reports

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Caylin
May 06, 2026
1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Open
NormalRough/Deteriorated
Trail is heavy rutted in some spots but mostly in good condition, with tracks around the worst of the spots. Needs some ground clearance in spots but just fine in 2WD. Trail is to the west of the DOE facility, straight north before the road curves around towards that. Petroglyphs are easy to find, plenty on the boulders where the trail ends and also on those to the east.
Zach Wallin
Apr 12, 2026
Open
Rough/Deteriorated
Despite reports stating this trail is closed it is still open. There is a closed gate at the D.O.E but the trail veers off the pavement to the left and this skirts around the D.O.E and takes you to the petroglyphs. It is in rough shape at this point, but still drivable by all vehicles with a bit of clearance.
Johnathan Kazmierczak
Dec 12, 2025
Permanently Closed
Locked Gate
DOE has gated off all access to blm around the petroglyph area.
Jackie Cooper
Jun 07, 2025
2022 Jeep Gladiator
Permanently Closed
Officially Closed Sign

Cresent Wash Petroglyphs Trail can be accessed by the following ride types:

  • Single Track
  • 50 Inch
  • 60 Inch
  • High Clearance
  • Full Width

Cresent Wash Petroglyphs Map

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