Pictured above is a Fremont petroglyph depicting a large buffalo, bighorn sheep, a snake, and several anthropomorphic figures and symbols.
Nine Mile Canyon, located in central Utah, is most famous for its large number of ancient Native American petroglyphs. Why the canyon is named Nine Mile, given the fact its over 46 miles in length is uncertain, but the first written reference of the name comes from John Wesley Powell’s second expedition, which camped near the entrance to the canyon. The most ancient rock art in the canyon comes from the Fremont Indians, which inhabited Utah and surrounding areas for more than 1300 years. Following them were the Ute, which left behind their own rock art. To date over 1000 archaeological sites have been documented in the canyon, both of rock art and human dwelling and storage sites.
The Canyon is also known for its pioneer history, and features a number of historic structures from when the canyon was a significant travel route between the Uintah Basin and the rest of Utah.
Self-Guide Tour (BLM)
Suggested Reading:
A Field Guide to Rock Art Symbols of the Greater Southwest – Alex Patterson
Ancient Peoples of the Great Basin and Colorado Plateau – Steven R. Simms
Related Articles:
Top Ancient Archaeological Sites in the United States
Top Pictograph/Petroglyph Sites in Utah