Petroglyphs are rare in the region, perhaps because of the absence of flat sandstone on which to work. The rock pictures have been found at only one spot in the bottom of the canyon and are few.
Some families may have possessed Macaws, since such bones were found in other prehistoric dwellings not far away. Bones of various Owls were found in Nalakihu, a ruin near the Citadel in Wupatki National Monument, but only Hawk bones were found in the Winona ruins near Walnut Canyon.
FLORA AND FAUNA
Walnut Canyon National Monument is at the junction of the Pine with the Pinyon and Juniper belt. Ponderosa Pine trees grow on both sides of the canyon and have golden brown bark. The shorter trees are Pinyon and Juniper, four species of which are known to occur on the Monument. There are scattered clumps of Gambel Oak, and several perennial shrubs of smaller size. One hundred and sixty plant species have been collected, identified, and filed in the herbarium. Several varieties of Penstemon are seen in summer and the Evening Primrose is common.
In addition to the animals mentioned elsewhere, visitors in the warm months may see two kinds of Squirrels and numerous birds including the Raven, Turkey Vulture, Stellar Jay, Nuthatch, and others. In summer, lizards are common and are often found on the outside walls or benches of the museum where they study visitors with considerable interest.
APPROACHES AND FACILITIES
Walnut Canyon is located on a dirt road which forms a loop off Highway 66. From the east the entrance gate is about 4 miles from the paved road, and from the west about 7.
There are no overnight accommodations or camp ground on the Monument, but there is a picnic area. Flagstaff, Arizona, where meals and lodging may be had, is 12 miles from the Monument.
A superintendent and a ranger are in residence on the Monument, and it is open the year around. However, the season of most desirable weather extends from April 1 to November 1.