There Is A Unique Man-Made Wonder Hiding Near A Small Town In Utah
By Courtnie Erickson|Published November 29, 2023
×
Courtnie Erickson
Author
From Southern Utah to the Panhandle in Idaho, Courtnie Erickson has lived in what she believes are the best (and the most beautiful!) areas in the country. She graduated with a journalism degree from Utah State University and has more than 15 years of professional writing experience. You’ll likely see her with a Dr. Pepper in her hand and a pair of running shoes on her feet. Courtnie is a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState.
Utah is a destination that is filled with incredible natural wonders. Bryce Canyon National Park, the Bonneville Salt Flats, and even Pando are all examples of natural wonders that will amaze you in every way. But, it is not just the features that were created by Mother Nature that will impress you. There are several unique man-made wonders that are also worth a second look. One of these is Newspaper Rock State Historical Monument. Created thousands of years ago, this wonder is one I recommend visiting. It’s full of history, stories, and breathtaking beauty all in one place.
Tucked away in San Juan County, near the tiny town of Monticello, is Newspaper Rock State Historical Monument. This rock has been a must-visit feature in the area for thousands of years.
Newspaper Rock is actually a 200-square-foot rock panel that is covered in engravings by Native Americans. It is believed many of these carvings are more than 2,000 years old.
Newspaper Rock contains one of the largest known collections of petroglyphs in America. In fact, there are more than 650 designs on this rock panel and it includes everything from human figures to symbols to animals. It is believed these markings are telling stories and mythologies, and even sharing information about crop cycles.
It is only fitting that in Navajo, this rock is called Tse’ Hane, meaning “the rock that tells a story.”
You will find Newspaper Rock along the Indian Creek Corridor Scenic Byway (State Route 211). This road will eventually lead you to the Needles District within Canyonlands National Park.
After time spent at Newspaper Rock, I recommend driving along this scenic byway. Along the way, you’ll enjoy sandstone cliffs and you can stop at one of the many hiking trails. Make sure to stop and admire the beauty of the area — there truly is so much to see and enjoy.
Keep in mind that if traveling on this scenic road, services are limited. It is always best to be prepared with proper road trip supplies and car-friendly snacks.
When you visit Newspaper Rock State Historical Monument, spend time trying to decipher each story. See what unique engravings you can spot. This is one man-made wonder that is free to visit and is where a picture is truly worth a thousand words.
Have you spent time at Newspaper Rock State Historical Monument? Have you driven on the Indian Creek Corridor Scenic Byway? Let us know in the comments! And don’t forget to share some of your favorite man-made wonders in Utah as well.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
