PETROGLYPHS AND PICTOGRAPHS IN THE WILLIAMS, ARIZONA AREA: LAWS SPRING; HARDY HILL AREA; ROCK TANK/KEYHOLE SINK

PETROGLYPHS AND PICTOGRAPHS IN THE WILLIAMS, ARIZONA AREA:

LAWS SPRING; HARDY HILL AREA;KEYHOLE SINK

Rock art, in the form of pictographs or petroglyphs, are in abundance in the Williams area. Often they contain directions, carry spiritual significance, or communicate other information. Whether you are a casual observer, an amateur archeologist, or a trained researcher, you cannot help but be curious as to their meaning. I focus on the information and directions that these symbols embody. They may appear simple in design, yet they are also complex in their meaning. Rock art, as I humbly would call it, conveys complex intelligence, and an expression of the remarkable ability of humanity to communicate with others. Such forms of language are found throughout the land we now call the United States. An early inhabitant of the South West would find commonality with the engravings found in the Pacific North West, and vise versa. One good resource is David Grant Noble's book "Ancient Ruins and Rock Art of the Southwest", Taylor Trade Publishing, 2015. He is one of those interesting people I hope to meet someday, out there in the wilds of Arizona. You never know what kind of character will cross your path.

These three locations- Laws Spring, Hardy Hill and Keyhole Sink- are associated with: springs; areas of good grazing for domestic animals; and an abundance of wildlife. Two of them- Laws Spring and Keyhole Sink- have parking areas and trails to the sites. All require hiking over rocky terrain, and some skill in following primitive trails. As with all such sites, they are protected and monitored. Due to the carelessness and vandalism of others, some day soon they may be closed to the public.

Today's adventure can be followed on the AZ GMU 7W Map, also known as Section 7W.

LAWS SPRING

Years ago, this was one of the first remote areas that I explored. It is difficult to find, but well worth the effort. The site is almost pristine, possibly due to it's remoteness. There is an overabundance of artwork, from early engravings to more contemporary graffiti. Please do not add your tidbit of self-importance. Respect the fact that those that came before you had to walk great distances, traveling from spring to spring, arriving at this small oasis and finding refreshment and rest.

Do your research before driving to the site. Check with the Visitor's Center in Williams. They have free copies of National Forest Maps which have the latest information on forest roads. This area is remote, and I know people who got lost, but through perseverance and great driving skills made it out before resorting to cannibalism for survival. You will need a 4x4 vehicle, and bring emergency supplies. The roads are rough, and if they appear to be too difficult turn around.

According to the map, Laws Natural Tank is near the intersection of FR2029C and FR2030. To access this area, take FR141, Spring Valley Road. Turn North, the only way you can turn, on FR730 (just West of Twin Tanks.) Follow it north past Wildcat Hill where the road becomes FR115. There should be a track on the left marked FR2030, or it may still have a sign saying Laws Tank. Again, have an updated map and get the latest directions. I have been there, but road numbers change at the whims of forest officials.

There is a parking area above the springs. Stay on the trail.

Trailhead sign. Stay on the trail; seems like a simple act, but if you stray you will get lost or injured. One of the fascinating features of the area is that the Beale Expedition visited this location. Original rock art can be found naming the spring, etched by one of the expedition members. There is a sketchy trail that leads to where the wagon road existed. In addition to the expedition, many a traveler paused and rested at this remote oasis, before moving on to the next stop along the road.

The area is rough and rocky. Snakes are one of the denizens you may encounter.

The Official Sign at the Spring

The source of the springs, which can be viewed along the trail

The main pool. Rock art can be found in abundance at this location. Enjoy, explore, and be safe. Might as well dine upon your lunch, and take copious amounts of pictures. Be aware that wildlife are in the area. I have seen mountain lion and bear sign. Don't forget there are snakes. And take your trash with you when you leave.

HARDY HILL AREA

I previously mentioned this area in the North Chalender posting. The ravine contains a number of etchings, as well as the remains of the wood trestle. Just west of the area are the remains of man's attempt to inhabit t he area. FR2058 heads east to the site, off of Spring Valley Road FR141. The last time I attempted to use the FR2058 it was washed out and extremely difficult to traverse. Another way to access the area is to park in the area near Hardy Hill, on FR74 (Compressor Station Road to Pitman Valley.) You can then hike into the area for about a half mile.

ROCK TANK/KEYHOLE SINK

Probably the easiest area to access. the trail is difficult in one area, but otherwise is a moderate hike. No need for 4x4, as parking is available.

Take Exit 178, Parks exit, and head north to where it dead ends at the intersection with Old Route 66. Turn left, heading west to Parks. Obey the posted speed limit as you are in a residential area and a school is nearby. There is an old original General Store. Stop and visit for awhile. Buy refreshments, and meet the local inhabitants in their natural environment. Be respectful, and soak in the historical setting. The original highway passes nearby, and at one time there was a saw mill in the area.

Okay, that was a blatant attempt to get you to stop at the store. However, you never know what you may have learned if you don't stop along the way on the great highway of life.

Continue West on Old Route 66. Keep driving, passing the Spitz Spring Road. You will come to a sign that says something about a snow use area, located on the left side of the road. Pull into the parking area, and, well, park. Just across the highway you will see a fence, with a green gate. That is the access to the trail. Used to be a big sign posted along the highway, but someone knocked it down. Don't know if it was the Forest Service, or if it is adorning someone's living room wall. Just hope they install another one someday soon (been waiting almost four years.)

Back to the trail: go through the green gate, and shut it behind you. There is an outline of a trail; follow it for about a mile. It dead ends at the site. When you reach the site, there is a gate with a guest book in a box. Please sign-in, and read the information. You can walk around the area, or stand entranced by the rock art.