Ancient signposts...Territorial markers...Mystic symbols...Man's vain attempt at immortality.

These are just a few of the speculations about petroglyphs. The reality is they are a unique cultural heritage linking us with our past. Like artifacts in a museum, not necessarily there to be understood, but to be enjoyed simply for what they are. And for the first time visitor to Valley of Fire nowhere are they in more abundance than here at Petroglyph Canyon Trail.

It's not just the content of the petroglyphs that remains a mystery. Even the desert varnish that they are engraved into isn't completely understood. Some believe that it is leached out from within. Others, that it is deposited onto the rock. The one thing that is agreed upon by almost everyone is that this black veneer is the result of the oxidization of both Iron and Manganese. Once hardened it presented a palette of contrast giving the Native Americans the ability to either chisel or scratch out these symbols.

Symbols are inevitably meant to communicate something. What could these symbols be telling us. What were Native Americans, visiting here between 900 and 1200 years ago, trying to say to each other. We'll probably never know. But chances are they said it here because of the two Tenajas at the end of the trail, known as Mouses's tank.

The 'Tenajas' are natural indentations in the rock capable of retaining water for about 6 months out of the year. It was the water and ample game that drew the Indians to this area back then. Today, it's the mysteries of the petroglyphs that attract us.

While our videographer Paul Bean was taping this beautiful 'Moon in the arch' shot at the trailhead, an unexpected visitor showed up.

You've got to love it when even the local residents come out for cameo appearances. This Antelope Ground Squirrel is one of the many small critters that you can expect to see at the Valley of fire.