Recreating Responsibly Around Archaeological Sites

Respect Archaeological Sites

Southern Utah is the ancestral homeland of many Indigenous groups, and the region is home to countless archaeological sites and artifacts. While this guide doesn't share any specific archaeological sites, you may encounter petroglyphs or dwelling sites on your trip. These sites are protected by federal laws, including, but not limited to, the Archaeological Resources Protection Act and the National Historic Preservation Act. Damaging, defacing, or destroying archaeological sites is a federal crime. Please treat the land and any archaeological sites with respect when visiting southern Utah

Here are some best practices when visiting an archaeological site:

• Never sit, touch, lean, or stand on walls of archaeological sites. 

• Don’t touch petroglyphs and pictographs (the oils from your fingers can break them down faster). 

• Leave all artifacts where you find them. 

• Don’t allow pets or small children in archaeological sites.