Short Creek Water Glyph Trail

Trail Overview

Short Creek Water Glyph Trail is a 1.8-mile out-and-back trail rated 3 of 10 located in Washington County, Utah. This is a destination trail that leads to a short hike (.4 miles one way) along the cliff line to locate 3 cup and channel petroglyphs more commonly called Water Glyphs. There are many theories as to what these glyphs mean from treasure maps to solstice religious symbols to navigational aids. Since more than 150 of these glyphs have been found stretching across, Utah, Arizona and into New Mexico, the most prevalent theory seems to be navigational aids. It is believed that the native American Anasazi tribes designed the water glyphs to navigate through the Arizona desert and the glyphs could be used as a map to navigate the desert. The water source was the most significant issue for the Anasazi; these navigation tools could help them avoid long walks and save time. The Anasazi people were a civilization that arose as early as 1500 BC and the remains of their dwellings can be found in south-west America. They began as nomadic hunter-gatherers but in time, they built great cities among the sandstone cliffs. The Anasazi astronomers studied the stars, and their engineers built significant roadways, towers, and stone complexes. Unlike most petroglyphs, water glyphs are carved into rock that is horizontal and on the ground. They are about 48 inches long by 24 inches wide and consist of a circle intersected by a directional line that extends beyond the circle. They include a dot inside the circle and sometimes another located on the outside. Carved almost an inch deep into the rock, they are usually found on the edge of a cliff. After arriving at the parking location: N37deg 00.958' W113deg 05.421', a short hike (less than .4 miles one way) along the cliff edge will allow individuals to find 3 of the water glyphs on Short Mesa. The glyphs are located at 1: N37deg 00.939' W113deg 05.381', 2: N37deg 00.950' W113deg 05.340', and 3: N37deg 01.026' W113deg 05.114'. Traveling this short route there are vista views to the south and an abandoned cabin that was never finished along the trail. Cell phone service should be available all along the trail and the nearest services are either in Apple Valley or Hildale.

Photos of Short Creek Water Glyph Trail

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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 are a plus.

Technical Rating