Grimes Point Petroglyph Trail

Grimes Point was first visited by Native Americans perhaps 8,000 years ago or more. Visitors today can view examples of petroglyphs (prehistoric rock art) along a short, self-guided interpretive trail, originally constructed by the Youth Conservation Corps. and named Nevada's first National Recreation Trail in 1978. A Grimes Point Petroglyph Trail brochure is available to guide hikers and describe each station stop. New handicapped accessible restroom and picnic facilities are available at this popular stop, located seven miles east of Fallon, Nevada, on the north side of U.S. Highway 50.

History

Over the last 10,000 years, the level of ancient Lake Lahontan fluctuated widely, at times drying up completely. In the last few thousand years, the lake, shallow and marsh-like, reappeared periodically in the Grimes Point area. The presence of Lake Lahontan and its marshy remnants resulted in a wide variety of plants and animals which were used by prehistoric populations.

Archaeologists studying Grimes Point examine the clues left by those early visitors, such as bits of bone and shell discarded from a meal, a stone scrapper used in butchering a small animal, bits of tule matting, or the petroglyphs (rock art) which you can see today along the trail.

Guided Tours

In addition to the self-guided trail at Grimes Point, there is a guided educational program provided for those interested in learning more about Great Basin prehistory. Contact the BLM Carson City Field Office at (775) 885-6000 for more information on this popular program.

Other Related Attractions

Visitors are also encouraged to visit the Churchill County Museum in Fallon and the Nevada State Museum in Carson City for additional displays about prehistoric Nevada.

Guided public tours are also available at nearby Hidden Cave on the second and fourth Saturday of each month. Meet at the Churchill County Museum (1050 S. Maine Street, Fallon, Nevada) at 9:30 a.m.