Hickison Petroglyphs Backcountry Road
Ancient petroglyphs in Monitor Valley wilderness
The rock faces at Hickison Summit hold some of Nevada’s finest petroglyphs, carved by Shoshone hunters who used this pass for centuries. This BLM backcountry road splits off Highway 50 and winds through pinyon pine and juniper to reach the interpretive site, then continues deeper into Monitor Valley’s remote reaches. The main petroglyphs panel sits beside a natural spring that still draws wildlife today.
Easy to moderate difficulty depending on how far you push into the backcountry. Stock high-clearance vehicles handle the maintained portion fine, but the deeper valley tracks demand 4WD and decent ground clearance. Spring through fall offers the best conditions, though winter snow can block higher elevations. Bring plenty of water and fuel—cell service disappears completely once you’re off the highway. Perfect for combining petroglyphs with dispersed camping under some of the darkest skies in America.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | High Clearance |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote |
| Length (miles) | 12 mi / 19.3 km |
| Duration | Half day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 6200 ft |
| Best season | April-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 2WD |
| Nearest town | Austin, Nevada |
| Land manager | Bureau of Land Management |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Official sources | blm.gov |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock high-clearance 2WD truck handle this trail?
Yes — a stock high-clearance 2WD like a base Tacoma or F-150 with decent ground clearance can manage this trail under dry conditions. The dirt surface stays relatively forgiving, but deep ruts after rain can change that fast. 4WD isn't required but won't hurt.
When does the trail become impassable?
Winter months (November–March) can close this track due to snow and mud at elevation. Stick to April through October for reliable access. Wet spring conditions can turn the dirt surface into a slick mess even for 4WD rigs.
Do I need a permit to drive this road or visit the petroglyphs?
No permit required — it's BLM land and access is free. The Hickison Petroglyph Recreation Area itself has no entry fee. Standard BLM rules apply: pack it in, pack it out, don't touch or deface the rock art.
What's the hardest section and what should I actually expect?
The trail is rated moderate with nothing technical enough to require lockers or a lifted rig. Expect washboards, loose dirt, and some rocky stretches as elevation climbs toward 6,200 ft. The biggest hazard is complacency — it's easy terrain that still punishes a flat-tired unprepared rig in the middle of nowhere.
How far is the nearest gas station, and is there water at the trailhead?
Austin, Nevada is the nearest town and your last reliable fuel stop — fill up there before heading out. There is no potable water at the trailhead or along the route, so carry everything you need. Cell service is completely dead out here, so let someone know your plans before you roll in.
Trail track
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