Arches Over Ancient Art

McConkie Ranch Petroglyphs are on the northwest outskirts of Vernal. The owners of this ranch have watched over the petroglyphs that adorn the canyon wall since they were first found. They have have opened access to the public for this historical artwork. Suki led us down the short trail through the meadows to get to the base of the wall. It was then a rock scramble of sorts to reach the ledge where you can see the petroglyphs of various forms and shapes. I had wondered if what I saw depicted leaders or medicine men, or if they were recording encounters with aliens. They are depicted with horns or antennae making me think of more supernatural origins. Tom had gone back to the truck early since the path was not good for his foot or balance. After I got back, we were about to drive out, then Tom saw a sign that said Three Kings Panel with an arrow pointing in the opposite direction. He backed up the truck and I hiked the 3/4 mile over to these petroglyphs. It was a nice walk through some fields and wetlands to see these other panels.

After this, Tom drove us up the canyon to a nice overlook area where the girls could get out and stretch their legs, while we admired the wildflowers and view. We also saw many places to disperse camp along this road. Down the mountain we went, onto the the last stop of the day.

Several reviews stated that you can drive right up to Moonshine Arch. We reached the parking area, took one look at the road and said NO WAY! The first ruts were three feet deep leading down to a wash and just as bad going up the other side. We decided to hike the mile long trail instead going through the sand and over the rock outcroppings. I was grateful for every pine and juniper tree we passed that gave us moments of shade from the unrelenting sun. We eventually turned a corner and the arch revealed itself. It was a stunning in its creamy golden color against the blue sky. Slender and tall, it was best viewed from an alcove that was right next to it. We walked all around it, and with Cassie riding along, I climbed up the sloping floor to the top of the alcove the top, where there were views through the arch into the valley below. There was also a large window looking to the backside of the arch. Cassie and I even climbed above to see the arch from that vantage point. I was amazed to see the large tree thriving on the rock ledge above, but upon following the roots, we could see them trailing forty to fifty feet down a crevice to better soil and moisture on the valley floor. By the time we hiked back, we were done for the day. We stopped at Maverik for a snack and beverage, then headed back to the motorhome for a well-deserved nap.

Today was a travel day. It was a spur of the moment decision mid-morning. We only moved about 40 miles, but a change of scenery is good, and this puts us in an area to do some other things before heading further south. Unfortunately, with this move, we also came down about 2,600 feet in elevation, which means it is a fair bit warmer here. We are sweating this afternoon. Today I am grateful for the fans. We can put the long sleeves away for a couple days!

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