McConkie Ranch is private land, but they kindly let people view the extraordinary petroglyphs along this cliff.It is a beautiful hike.The microclimate here is warm in the late afternoon, even in midwinter.Some of the petroglyphs are small and on high ledges. These were made with red pigment on light-colored sandstone.Most of the petroglyphs are make by chipping into darker, weathered surfaces to reveal lighter-colored sandstone beneath.Sandstone weathering involves iron and manganese oxides, and can turn stone from reddish to black. It is called ‘desert varnish’. Dozens of elaborate petroglyphs in multiple styles were inscribed on this cliff face.They often illustrate distinctive clothing and jewelry styles.After the sun set, we could see some petroglyphs better in the low-contrast light.Numerous. Diverse.Some illustrate figures holding severed heads with blood flowing out.A few are combinations of pecked surface and applied pigment.They show very different clothing styles.Also, substantial necklaces.Higher up on the rock face are two sets of petroglyphs. On the right a figure-in-circle is inscribed into nearly-black desert varnish. On the left side of the crack, at the same elevation, is a less-distinct image of an individual possibly engaging a bear.The petroglyphs were fascinating, but the temperature also started to plummet shortly after sunset.At the end of the trail, we abruptly turned around and hustled back.Possibly some practice drawings?The landscape was stunningly beautiful. It greatly enhances the experience.
