The Hiko Spring Petroglyph Site is located a short distance off of NV-163 (Laughlin Hwy) at a point approx. 88 miles distant of the Las Vegas Strip. This site has a few panels of "concentrated" petroglyphs (vicinity of WP5) with other petroglyphs in the area (need to explore). Within this area most of the petroglyphs are of abstract design and are similar to those found at "nearby" Grapevine Canyon (see link below). Assuming the petroglyphs at Hiko Spring and Grapevine Canyon are "somewhat" related then these petroglyphs may have been created between 1000 and 1900 AD. The petroglyphs at this site (and all other sites) are poorly understood, their meaning (by those who created them) is lost to time. In addition, there is evidence of graffiti from the early 1900s, most likely settlers or people passing thru the area. Unfortunately, graffiti by "modern people" who do not understand or care about the historical significance of these ancient peoples "writings" is scattered within the area. As has been said many times: leave only footprints so others can enjoy.

  
...petroglyphs
  

In addition to petroglyphs, there is an old concrete foundation (WP4) and remnants of old broken-down fencing scattered around the area. Not much is known about this site or its history as there is very little documentation on the internet.

  

Continuing beyond the Hiko Spring Petroglyph area (not described on this webpage) the canyon walls narrow and become higher with interesting geology, a variety of desert plant species (including Barrel Cactus) and more petroglyphs (approx. 0.5 miles downstream) for those who may want to explore further.

Trail Description:
The Hiko Spring Petroglyph Site is located a short distance (approx. 0.44 miles) "downstream" of the parking / trailhead area (WP1). From the "trailhead" the trail itself is actually a combination of a primitive dirt (4WD) road and a sand and gravel filled wash. As depicted in the accompanying map (immediately below), the preferred (and shortest) route would be to follow the primitive road which runs in an Easterly direction (from WP1) and parallels NV-163 for a short time. Once on said primitive road the route is well defined (tire tracks): stay on this section of road (do not deviate). At a point (approx. 0.28 miles distant of WP1), the primitive road transitions into the aforementioned wash (WP2). From WP2 follow said wash downstream for 0.14 miles+- to a point (WP3) where the vegetation becomes dense and the wash starts to narrow. From WP3 bear Northeasterly (Left) up a dirt road (out of the wash) for 0.02 miles+ to the area where an old concrete foundation (WP4) and the petroglyph area (WP5) are located. Return by reversing route.

Hiking vs. Driving to Petroglyphs:
Hiking (vs. driving) to the Hiko Spring Petroglyph Site is the preferred option as described in the Trail Description located immediately above. For those with a reliable 4WD RIG, the route from the trailhead / parking area (WP1) to the petroglyph area (WP5) is essentially the same.
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4WD Considerations:
•   deep sand possible within washes
•   tire / undercarriage hazards may exist
    (visible & hidden)
•   a few constricted areas (vegetation)
•   less opportunity to explore along route
•   potential resource damage
•   Use Your Own Discretion

Tips:
Remember water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, sturdy shoes and your camera. Keep an eye out for wildlife: there are Bighorn Sheep, coyote, cottontail, ground squirrel, lizards and birds around (watch for snakes). This adventure would be a great "stopover" while in route from Vegas to the Laughlin area.
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•  Fees: none
•  Amenities: none
•  not ADA accessible
•  Limited to No Shade
•  No Water Available
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nearby: Grapevine Canyon
nearby: Laughlin Labyrinths

Warning:
This adventure involves travel to a relatively remote area, please refer to the section on desert travel for safety information. Make sure you have plenty of water, a full tank of gas and a fully pressurized spare tire. Remember you are responsible for your own safety.
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•  This route is within an isolated area, don't
    expect to see any other hikers, especially
    if hiking mid-week
•  Be mindful of lightning / flash floods
•  Watch for snakes
•  LITTLE TO NO CELL PHONE COVERAGE
•  AVOID THE AREA DURING EXTREME HEAT

Directions:
From the US-93 / I-11 interchange with US-95 (just West of Boulder City) head South on US-95 traveling approx. 54 miles to the intersection of NV-163 (aka Laughlin Hwy). Turn Left (East) onto NV-163 traveling 8 miles+- to a point where the highway runs relatively straight and continues downhill. Looking ahead towards the bottom of this stretch of the highway (keep an eye on traffic behind you) notice where NV-163 starts to flatten out (look for a yellow left turn 50mph caution sign) and in short order begins a sharp uphill left turn (SLOW DOWN when appropriate). At the bottom of this stretch of road (9.7 miles+- from US-95) notice the beginning of a long guardrail (on the South side of NV-163). Just before reaching the guardrail there is a "wider" shoulder area and unmarked dirt 4WD road (to your right). At an appropriate speed, utilize the edge of the paved area (Again: be aware of traffic behind you) to transition into the "wider" shoulder area, this is the parking area / trailhead (WP1). To return to the Vegas area see note below. Approx. driving distance (88 miles) from central Vegas Strip to the Hiko Spring parking area / trailhead.
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WP1:    N35.16857  W114.68715

WP2:    N35.16898  W114.68242

WP3:    N35.16903  W114.67998

WP4:    N35.16933  W114.67987

WP5:    N35.16928  W114.67958

Note:
See desert travel for GPS Waypoint info
All distances and waypoints are approximate

Note: for those heading Westbound on NV-163 from Laughlin towards Las Vegas: this adventure is not recommended due to high speeds (65mph+), downhill traffic from both directions, a major curve with limited sight visibility (especially behind you), no dedicated turn lane, heavy traffic volumes and an "abrupt and somewhat steep descent" exiting the Southern shoulder of NV-163. It is therefore recommended to approach this adventure in an Eastbound (only) direction while driving NV-163 towards Laughlin. Additionally, it is highly recommended to continue Eastbound on NV-163 (towards Laughlin) after visiting this area (do not turn towards Vegas). Remember you are responsible for your own safety and the safety of others.