Something I hate is when I hear that the Americas are "new" and that there is nothing old and significant to be seen. Well you don't have to go to Europe or Asia to see ancient ruins. The ruins of Aztec temples in Mexico, Viking settlements in Newfoundland, and Blackfoot petroglyphs on the stone walls of southern Alberta.

Near the Alberta/Montana border and just 44 km east of the small town of Milk River is Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park. Canada recently nominated the park to UNESCO for World Heritage status. The park boasts having over 50 petroglyphs (stone-carved images) created by the Blackfoot Native Americans, which date as far back as 7000 B.C. Some of the petroglyphs have been damaged so it is hard to discern many of the images.

Little is currently known about their significance and there is still allot of research needing to be done.

The park covers a vast territory, and its remote location makes accessibility possible only by vehicle. Take you camper because there is allot to see and the park has first rate camping amenities.

The park also has many hoodoos and arches that make for an interesting hike along its trails.

There are few things you should know about the park before you venture into it:

• The park also has a strong wildlife; sightings of bears, cougars, and rattle-snakes are common.
• The park and campground facilities are open year-round. No reservations are necessary.
• Camping fees are between $20 - $25 per night.
• Guided tours are available upon request.
• Defamation of the petroglyphs will cost you $50,000 in fines and up to one-year in jail. So don't touch them!

Information Hotline: (403)647-2364

The following images were taken from various websites and sources. I wanted there to be a place where interested viewers could see as many of the petroglyphs as possible in one place.

If you have images of Alberta's petroglyphs and would like to contribute to this collection, please contact me.