War Shield Canyon is in the lower section of the Pahranagat Wash and northern portion of Arrow Canyon in Clark County, NV. The Arrow Canyon Wilderness Area covers a little over 27,000 acres. The name comes from the large amount of petroglyphs that line the canyon walls resembling Native American war shields. These petroglyphs are quite rare & unique. Being that they’re etched into sandstone, it makes them difficult to see in direct sunlight (and even harder to photograph). I’ve read from several sources that they’re also considered some of the oldest petroglyphs in North America. The Moapa Band of Paiutes still live in this area and it’s assumed their ancestors left these etchings (although no one can be certain). At the very southern end of War Shield Canyon is an old dam, on the other side of the dam is Arrow Canyon.
Please click the images below:
Are these the only petroglyphs you have found at this location?
Hi Clint – There are a few other petroglyphs scattered throughout the area, although not as concentrated as in this particular area. Thanks! Paul