Valley of Fire Petroglyphs: Atlatl Rock and Elephant Rock
Rock art, a spear-throwing tool and a sandy loop trail
Petroglyphs at Atlatl Rock
The Native American petroglyphs at Atlatl Rock date back hundreds to even thousands of years. They are described as one of the best-known attractions in Valley of Fire State Park. Atlatl Rock takes its name from the atlatl, a spear-throwing tool that Native Americans of the area commonly used to hunt bighorn sheep.
Mouse's Tank and Atlatl Rock are both described as easily accessible areas with many petroglyphs. Ranger-led short hikes at Atlatl Rock also visit petroglyphs that lie off the marked and maintained trails.
Shade, events and the Elephant Rock Loop
Shaded day-use areas with restrooms are found at Atlatl Rock, Seven Sisters, the Cabins, Mouse's Tank Trailhead and White Domes.
The Atlatl Rock picnic area is also where the park has hosted an annual World Atlatl Competition in March, open to beginners.
The Elephant Rock Loop is a 1.25-mile loop over sandy and rugged terrain. One area of the route has uneven carved stone steps.
Distances and the scenic byway
Valley of Fire State Park is 16 miles (26 km) south of Overton, Nevada. Overton is the settlement closest to the park and lies 65 miles (105 km) northeast of Las Vegas. The park itself is located 50 miles (80 km) northeast of Las Vegas.
| Measure | Value |
|---|---|
| Valley of Fire State Park, south of Overton | 16 miles (26 km) |
| Valley of Fire, northeast of Las Vegas | 50 miles (80 km) |
| Overton, northeast of Las Vegas | 65 miles (105 km) |
| Valley of Fire Road between the east and west entrances | 10.5 miles (16.9 km) |
The 10.5-mile section of Valley of Fire Road between the east and west entrances was designated a Nevada Scenic Byway on June 30, 1995.
Tours and activities
Tours near Valley of Fire
Questions about Atlatl Rock and Elephant Rock
How old are the petroglyphs at Atlatl Rock?
The Native American petroglyphs at Atlatl Rock date back hundreds to even thousands of years.
What is an atlatl?
An atlatl is a spear-throwing tool. Native Americans of the area commonly used it to hunt bighorn sheep, and it gives Atlatl Rock its name.
Are there petroglyphs away from the marked trails?
Ranger-led short hikes at Atlatl Rock visit petroglyphs that are off the marked and maintained trails.
How long is the Elephant Rock Loop?
The Elephant Rock Loop is 1.25 miles. The terrain is sandy and rugged, with one area of uneven carved stone steps.
Where are the shaded day-use areas with restrooms?
They are at Atlatl Rock, Seven Sisters, the Cabins, Mouse's Tank Trailhead and White Domes.
Is there an event at the Atlatl Rock picnic area?
The park has hosted an annual World Atlatl Competition at the Atlatl Rock picnic area in March, open to beginners.