Kirk’s Grotto

Bitter Ridge, Gold Butte, Mojave Desert, Desert, Nevada, Clark County, Pictographs, Cave, Caves, Rock Art, Native American, Native Americans, Gold Butte National Monument, hiking Exploring, Camping, Off Roading, Petroglyphs, Black Butte, Virgin Mountains, Kirk's Grotto, Seven Keyhole Slots Canyon, Subway Slot, Slot Canyon
The subway-style slot canyon at Kirk’s Grotto…click to enlarge

I really like any type of slot canyon, but the canyon at Kirk’s Grotto is truly unique.  It’s definitely not a long slot canyon, in fact it’s rather short (maybe 1/4 mile long).  But, the main entrance is otherworldly…it’s a tunnel, sometimes referred to as a subway slot (due to it’s resemblance of a subway tunnel).  Standing in the entrance to this dramatic tunnel is almost like being in a Sci-Fi movie set.  The entrance to the canyon is hidden behind a mesquite tree.  If you didn’t know the location, it would be very easy to hike right by it.  Inside the canyon there are many petroglyphs, with a good portion of them fading and eroding away.  At the very back of the canyon is the main panel.  Due to their location higher up, they appear to be surviving much better.  Also in the back is a small alcove that appears to have been used for some type of ceremonial purpose…it’s had heavy fire usage and is surrounded by petroglyphs.

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