Estimating Petroglyph Age - Cliff Base Trail

Along the Boca Negra Canyon Cliff Base Trail, archeologists using relative dating methods along the escarpment have concluded that the 23,000 petroglyphs found in the monument were created between 1000 B.C. and A.D. 1700. They estimate age by comparing petroglyphs with other archeological materials whose dates can be determined through radiocarbon and tree ring dating. They also study relatively dark areas and re-oxidation, compare the style, content, and execution of petroglyphs to those of surrounding areas, and compare designs with similar designs on dated pottery or painted murals.

Albuquerque, New Mexico · United States