Type of Hike : Out and Back
Length: 1 mile round trip
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
Terrain: Packed dirt and sand
Elevation Gain: 200 feet
Dog Friendly: Yes on leash
Park Pass/Permit Required: No
Direction to the Trailhead
Turn south off Highway 89 at mile marker 25.6 onto House Rock Valley Road. Drive 10.7 miles on a maintained gravel road, which is suitable for any vehicle when dry. The trailhead is located on the west side of the road, 1 mile south of Stateline Campground. The parking area is easy to spot and has informational signs. Avoid the road if conditions are wet, as it quickly becomes impassable due to deep, sticky mud, even for 4×4 vehicles. Be aware that the road may also be washed out from frequent flash floods in Buckskin Gulch and other drainages.
Maze Rock Hike Description
Maze Rock is a captivating cultural feature located in Northern Arizona, renowned for its striking petroglyph panel. This large rock outcropping displays an impressive array of ancient rock art, including the prominent “Maze” petroglyph, which features a complex, labyrinth-like design. The intricate carvings, dating back around a thousand years, were created by the Ancestral Puebloans and are believed to symbolize the convoluted sandstone formations that dominate the landscape.
The rock formation itself is visually striking, with its rugged surface and sweeping views of the surrounding desert terrain. The petroglyphs are etched into the rock with remarkable precision, offering a fascinating glimpse into the artistic and cultural expressions of the region’s early inhabitants.
Maze Rock is easily accessible via a short 1-mile out-and-back hike from House Rock Valley Road. The trail is moderate/easy, starting with a gentle uphill switchback and then crossing a sagebrush basin before reaching the petroglyphs. The site’s west-facing orientation means it is shaded in the morning and bathed in sunlight in the afternoon, making it an ideal spot for both daytime exploration and photography. The surrounding landscape, with its dramatic sandstone features, adds to the overall allure of Maze Rock, making it a must-see destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.