Swelter Shelter Petroglyphs In Dinosaur National Monument
The Swelter Shelter Petroglyphs are situated along Cub Creek Road (40.43749, -109.29257), about one mile from the Quarry Visitor Center in Dinosaur National Monument.
The site is easily accessible, requiring just a short walk of 400 feet round-trip.
At Swelter Shelter, you can view a variety of petroglyphs and pictographs created by the Fremont Culture around 1,000 years ago.
Petroglyphs are designs carved or etched into rock surfaces, while pictographs are images painted onto rock.
Archaeological evidence suggests that the Fremont people used the Swelter Shelter, though it may not have been necessarily occupied by them.
Swelter Shelter has been occupied by older cultures dating to as early as 7000 BCE.
From the trailhead, follow the well-maintained path to the interpretive sign.
Upon reaching the shelter, you’ll have a clear view into the site, as well as of the petroglyphs and pictographs adorning the rock wall above.
Over time, some of the images have faded, making them difficult to see, while others remain more distinct.
How many different symbols can you spot?
Personally, I love the ones that resemble bizarre aliens or monsters.
For more details, you can pick up a trail pamphlet at the Visitor Center. This short, easy hike leads to a fascinating site and is well worth the fifteen minutes it takes to explore.
Petroglyphs and pictographs are delicate, invaluable pieces of history, so please DO NOT TOUCH them!
The natural oils on your skin can cause irreversible damage to these ancient images.
