Newspaper Rock And Indian Creek Recreation Area

Description

Slideshow

Newpaper Rock was carved on over some 2000 years by various Indian cultures - Archaic, Anasazi, Fremont, Navajo, Anglo, and Pueblo (1). Imagine that! I can't think of any newspaper since the beginning of written languages that has that kind of life span. All kind and genre of symbols were edged on the rock, from highly abstract symbols to man on horse with bow and arrows. According to the posted information, archaeologists do not understand the intent of the carvings. On this rock as of 1900's, people carved their names on the rock. Probably the rock was not protected at the time and people had a different notion of preservation then. Fortunately, most people want to preserve these precious historical artifacts now, and there is a fence around the rock.

Indian Creek Recreation Area extends from the Newspaper Rock to Canyonlands National Park. Its landscape rivals beauties of Canyonlands, Capitol Reef and the likes. There are numerous trails and camping areas along the road. This area seems popular to hikers as some parking areas were quite full as I drove by. Fall foliage in this area was impressive as well. It could be a destination in its own right for fall foliage.

There is one developed campground and several primitive campgrounds in the area. Pack in/out policy is in place for trash and human waste. There is a clean developed camground in Canyonlands National Park with drinking water and flush toilets. Unfortunately, it fills up quickly during the summer and fall.

 

  

Getting There

It's relatively simple to get to Newspaper Rock. It turns off Highway 191 into State Route 211. The drive is smooth on well maintained paved road. Do watch your speed since I spotted at least one police car checking speedsters on that stretch of highway.

Additional Considerations

  

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