Stein Valley Pictographs
We hiked into Stein Valley from the trailhead near Lytton as a day hike covering about 17.5 km. We enjoyed the river and the trail but also wanted to see the pictographs in this UNESCO Heritage Site. The first pictographs were at Asking Rock, then we spotted some more on large boulders farther up the canyon. There are 13 spots in the valley that are known.
We knew where the junction for the unmarked side trail was for the largest archaeological site so we took some time to look at each panel on the rock faces above the river. At this spot are almost over 200 examples of rock art.
Much of the rock art was done between 1800 and 1860. They were made by mixing ochre with water. Most of the images depict birds, animals, humans, and spiritual beings. A few of the photos are shared here. Click an image for a larger view.
It is the practice of Parks and heritage organizations not to publish the exact location of these spots so that guideline is respected here too. Observant hikers will find the spots without too much trouble, but it will take a longer day of hiking to find the best spots.