Kokopelli Rock Art Site
This Pictograph of the ‘Hump-back Flute Player’ is just one depiction of Kokopelli that can be found at several locations throughout the Southwestern United States
'Kokopelli' Pictograph
Kokopelli Rock Art Site is located in Colorado, United States near these coordinates.
N 39° 52.439 W 108° 43.921
12S E 693958 N 4416232
The figure of Kokopelli is often associated with Anasazi mythology. His appearance at this site indicates a tie with other civilized cultures in the four corners region of the southwest including the area of Mesa Verde. Some scholars believe that Kokopelli was a traveling trader carrying a pack and entertained his customers by playing his flute. Still others believe him to be a trickster, a seducer of maidens, a fertility symbol, a rain priest, or even a hunting magician! Theories abound but the only real evidence is the Rock Art itself. What do you think?
This site has several interpretive signs for studying the cultural history of the area. The main Kokopelli Rock Art panel has been reinforced to keep it from falling from the cliff face. You will notice a large cable bolted to the rock across Kokopelli’s midsection.
There are more Freemont and Ute painted and pecked figures at this location. Not much exercise here – very easy access. There is a BLM sign directly along Colorado Highway 139 and a parking area across the road from the Rock Art panels. The listed coordinates are from the parking area directly across from Kokopelli.
As always with this and other Ancient Rock Art, remember that it is very Fragile and deserves our utmost respect. Take only pictures and memories! Do Not Touch as even the oils in your skin can cause the paints and rock surfaces to deteriorate. Erosion and weathering have taken a toll on many of these sites but people touching the sandstone and ‘outlining in chalk’ causes much more damage!
The Antiquities Act of 1906 and the Archaeological Resources Protection Act provides serious penalties for vandals
Antiquities Act of 1906 and the Archaeological Resources Protection Act provides serious penalties for vandals
There are several different objects visible at this site from both the Fremont and Ute cultures. Some of the Rock Art objects are difficult to find at first without a trained eye. Take your time and look around.
The Antiquities Act of 1906 and the Archaeological Resources Protection Act provides serious penalties for vandals
There are no signs indicating that this Rock Art exists. There are 2 somewhat main routes into the area, one from I-70 and the easiest off old unmaintained, Highway 6. Both roads meet at this sign.
For viewing the Petroglyphs (carved stone) you should return to the junction of Hay and East Canyons and follow the road into East Canyon. Look toward your left for a close view of the Rock Art typical of this area.
You will note that even in this remote location that some of the panels have been vandalized by thoughtless individuals including some photographers who think that outlining the art in chalk is a ‘good thing’. Just Don’t! You will also notice a few more ‘modern’ additions.
Ancient Graffiti 