The Maze Rock Art Site is located west of Page, Arizona, and southeast of Kanab, Utah, in the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument.
The place is aMAZing (get it)! Seriously, Maze Rock Art Site is one of the coolest and best-preserved petroglyph panels around. As an added bonus, it’s easy to access. I have done numerous 10+ mile hikes to see petroglyph panels, but none were better than what you will see at this site.
If you have seen other petroglyph sites, you have probably seen graffiti. Many easy-access panels have new, unauthentic drawings or even names, but fortunately, there is no graffiti here. Please, please, please, make sure you keep it that way!
Directions to the Maze Rock Art Site Trailhead
Take Highway 89 to House Rock Valley Road (head west from Page, AZ, or east from Kanab, UT). Follow the House Rock Valley Road 10.8 miles. You will Pass the Wire Pass Trailhead; the Maze Rock Art Site trailhead is 2.5 miles from the Wire Pass Trailhead. There is a sign for Maze Rock Art Site on the left side of the road, and you will see a dirt parking area on the side of the road.
Hiking to the Maze Rock Art Site
The Maze Rock Art Site is an easy mile-and-a-half round-trip hike.
The trail begins right next to the information sign. It is a slight uphill climb in the beginning with a steeper section toward the end, but nothing too crazy, and then you reach Maze Rock. You can walk all around the rock. There are additional trails leading around the area you can take as well. The view from the top of the hill is nice, but Maze Rock is definitely the prize on the hike.
The History of the Site and Petroglyphs
The Maze Rock Art Site Petroglyphs were created by the Ancestral Puebloans at least 700 years ago. The site gets its name from one of the petroglyphs that looks like a maze. There are many other petroglyphs at the site that are worth exploring. One of my favorites is the petroglyph of the two-headed snake!
The site is exceptionally well-maintained and offers an incredible glimpse into the past.
Other attractions on House Rock Valley Road
House Rock Valley Road provides access to several iconic destinations in northern Arizona, including Buckskin Gulch, the Wave, Wire Pass, and White Pocket. Here’s an overview of each hike:
- Buckskin Gulch: Buckskin Gulch is one of the longest and deepest slot canyons in the world, offering a stunning hiking experience. The Buckskin Gulch trailhead is accessed via the Wire Pass Trailhead, which is located off House Rock Valley Road. The hike through Buckskin Gulch requires wading through water, navigating narrow passages, and scrambling over rocks.
- The Wave is a renowned sandstone formation appreciated for its colorful patterns that appear to be in motion. However, getting access to the Wave is quite limited, and a permit is mandatory for a visit. The trailhead for The Wave is located off House Rock Valley Road, and the hike involves navigating through a mix of slick rock and sandy terrain. The hike is approximately 3 miles one-way and can be challenging, especially in hot weather.
- Wire Pass: Wire Pass is a short slot canyon hike that serves as the entry point for accessing Buckskin Gulch. The trailhead is located off House Rock Valley Road and provides parking facilities. The hike through Wire Pass involves navigating through a narrow slot canyon with towering walls.
- White Pocket: White Pocket is a unique geological formation featuring swirling patterns and colorful sandstone formations. Driving to White Pocket can be challenging, especially in adverse weather conditions, and a high-clearance vehicle is recommended. The hike at White Pocket is relatively short, allowing visitors to explore the surreal landscape of twisted rock formations.
Weather Conditions
Weather conditions can impact hiking conditions. Rain can cause the potential for flash flooding and unpassable roads, while extreme heat can cause troubles for hikers, such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Always be prepared for the weather and terrain you are visiting.
- Check Weather Forecasts: Before embarking on your journey, check the weather forecast for the area along House Rock Valley Road. Flash flooding regularly occurs in the area. The Maze Rock Art Sit Trail is not in a flash flood zone, but extreme flooding will completely wash out the road in certain areas. Pay attention to any warnings or advisories issued by the National Weather Service or other relevant authorities.
- Monitor Road Conditions: Keep an eye on road conditions, especially if there’s a risk of flooding, mudslides, or washouts. House Rock Valley Road is a dirt road that can become impassable during heavy rain or snow, so exercise caution and consider postponing your trip if conditions deteriorate.
- Consider a High-Clearance Vehicle: House Rock Valley Road is rough and can be challenging to navigate, especially in poor weather conditions. Consider using a high-clearance vehicle with four-wheel drive for better traction and maneuverability.
- Tell Someone Your Plans: Before heading out to the Maze Rock Art Site, let someone know your itinerary, including your intended route and estimated return time.
Leave It Better Than You Found It
Please do your part to keep the Maze Rock Art Site beautiful by packing out everything you pack in and not changing the landscape. Respect nature and follow ethical practices when engaging in outdoor activities. Always leave a place better than you found it and practice the principles of Leave No Trace. Enjoy your time exploring the trails and discovering the area’s hidden treasures!