Prehistoric Trackways National Monument | New Mexico

Prehistoric Trackways National Monument preserves one of the world’s most significant Early Permian megatracksites within 5,280 acres of the Robledo Mountains, north of Las Cruces, New Mexico. Visitors can hike along informal trails through rugged desert canyons to view fossilized footprints of amphibians, reptiles, insects, plants, and petrified wood dating to approximately 280 million years ago.  

To preserve these scientifically important fossils, select trackway specimens have been removed and curated at the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, forming the Jerry MacDonald Paleozoic Trackways Collection. Visitors can view these tracks by reserving a public tour of the museum’s Geoscience Collection. The Las Cruces Museum of Nature and Science also features two large trackways from the monument—one 30 feet long and another 15 feet—providing an impressive look at Early Permian life.

Hours and Seasons

Open year-round. Desert conditions can be extreme—hot summers and sudden thunderstorms. Plan hikes in spring, fall, or early mornings.  

Features and Services

• Recreational Activities: Off‑highway vehicle travel, horseback riding, and mountain biking are allowed only on designated routes.
• Access and Parking: Gravel parking available at the trailhead. The final mile requires high-clearance and may need 4WD when wet. Most passenger vehicles can reach the trailhead when dry.  
• Cell Service: Limited to inconsistent; do not rely on signal.
• Toilets: None on-site.
• Drinking Water: Not available; bring your own.
• Pets: Allowed on leash; please keep pets off fossil surfaces.
• Camping: Primitive, dispersed camping is permitted. Please check fire restrictions in advance, follow guidance on posted signs, and respect private property. Developed campgrounds are also available nearby.
• Nearby Amenities: Las Cruces offers food, fuel, lodging, and medical services.

Respect and Protect

These trackways are scientifically irreplaceable fossils. Observe and photograph, but do not disturb or remove them. Stay on established paths and preserve the site’s integrity for future generations. Collection of petrified wood, fossils, or minerals of any kind is only allowed with a permit, in accordance with the site’s Resource Management Plan.