Wolfe Ranch and Petroglyph Loop

Arches National Park

Arches National Park, Wolfe Homestead, Petroglyph Panel

Difficulty: Accessible

Length: 0.5 mile (loop)
Elevation Gain: 20 ft
Approximate Hiking Time: 1/4 – 1/2 hr
Features: Cultural Heritage
Nearest Town: Moab, Ut

Arches National Park is rich with geological wonders and history.  At Wolfe Ranch check out the homestead settled in 1898 by John and Fred Wolfe and the Petroglyphs left by American Indian Ancestors centuries before. 

Once you arrive in this area you just can’t help but wonder, “Who lived here and why did they choose this spot?”  I mean, “Dang, what a cool place to settle!”  

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Hike Highlights

1. Petroglyph Panels

Thought to be an example of Ute rock art, the panels are in great condition and easily accessible.  

2. Wolfe Ranch

Imagine homesteading in an area as desolate as this.  Living in a one room cabin through the harshness of winter and sweltering heat of summer.

3. Accessibility

This trail is an excellent choice for people of all abilities and fitness levels to experience the park’s cultural heritage.

balancedrocktrail
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Trailhead Directions

Follow the Main Park Road from the Visitor Center turning right onto Delicate Arch Road.  Total distance from the Visitor Center is about 13.2 miles.

The parking area for the Wolfe Ranch and Delicate Arch trailheads is located on the first turn to the left.  If you drive too far, you’ll reach the Delicate Arch Viewpoint trailhead and turn around.

Hike Details

Follow the path for about 0.1 miles to Wolfe Ranch.  The path is hard packed and relatively flat to the cabin and petroglyph panel.  It’s possible to bring a stroller or wheelchair through here on the main trail.

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Wolfe Cabin is the first stop on the trail.  It’s possible to look in the doors and windows although it’s roped off from entry.

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Once you’ve had a chance to peek in the windows of Wolfe Cabin continue on the path to the Petroglyph panel another 0.2 miles away.

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While there are other areas in the state with larger collections of petroglyphs this panel is really clear and an interesting place to stop.

Wolfe Ranch Petroglyphs
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What do you think these carvings meant?

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When you are done pondering the Petroglyphs head onto Delicate Arch or complete the loop and head back to the trailhead.

Why is this hike accessible?

A hard packed, flat trail leads from the trailhead to Wolfe Ranch and the petroglyph panels. 

More Hikes to Choose From

Check out this and other hikes in Arches National Park and Moab, Ut.

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