The Search for the Bellows Falls Petroglyphs

A forewarning before you set out to find the Bellows Falls Petroglyphs: this is not an easy or clearly marked destination. It can be dangerous, and it is not entirely clear whether visiting the site is officially permitted. I would not recommend attempting this with younger children.

That said, my oldest son now considers this one of the coolest things he has ever done and thinks his mom is pretty rad for letting him do it.

I first learned about the Bellows Falls Petroglyphs through Atlas Obscura, a site dedicated to unusual and lesser-known destinations. Their directions made it sound simple. We just needed to look off the south side of the Vilas Bridge.

Trying to Find the Bellows Falls Petroglyphs

Since the Bellows Falls Petroglyphs are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, I assumed there would be some sort of signage. There wasn’t.

When we arrived, we discovered that the Vilas Bridge has been closed for years. We searched the area but came up empty. I even had to drive back into town to get better cell service and do more research.

Back at the site, we noticed a dirt road leading down along the river. Figuring we couldn’t be the only people searching for the Bellows Falls Petroglyphs, we followed the path and kept an eye out for a worn trail. About 75 feet down, we found one and headed down.

Still, no petroglyphs.

We were standing above a rocky gorge with the Connecticut River rushing below. Between the steep drop and the scattered remains of teenage hangouts, it didn’t feel like the most family-friendly place.

An Unexpected Turn of Events

Just as I was starting to question our decision, I heard a branch snap behind me and shrieked loud enough to startle everyone, including the group of teenage boys who had been approaching.

After a good laugh, I asked if they knew where the Bellows Falls Petroglyphs were. Luckily, they were searching for the same thing and knew where to go.

We followed them down a steep, rocky path back toward the bridge.

Discovering the Bellows Falls Petroglyphs

Not long after, we found the first set of petroglyphs. A little farther along, closer to the bridge, was a second, larger panel.

They are incredible to see in person. It is hard to believe that something so ancient and historically significant is tucked away with almost no indication that it is there. The only marker is a small dash of yellow paint above the carvings.

History of the Bellows Falls Petroglyphs

It is believed that the Bellows Falls Petroglyphs were created by the Sokoki Abenaki, the Indigenous people who originally inhabited this region. Petroglyphs are rock carvings made using a stone chisel and hammerstone, and it is incredible to think about the time and effort that went into creating them.

The southern panel of the Bellows Falls Petroglyphs features eight figures, while the northern panel includes sixteen. Some of the figures appear to have antenna-like shapes on their heads, which has sparked a few extraterrestrial theories over the years.

According to Abenaki tradition, west is the direction a soul travels after death. Because a burial ground was discovered nearby, one theory suggests that the Bellows Falls Petroglyphs may have served as wayfinding markers, guiding newly departed spirits on their journey.

The carvings are estimated to be anywhere from 300 to 3,000 years old, although locals claim they are even older.

Unfortunately, the site has not always been treated with care. There have been attempts to paint and carve over the petroglyphs, which has made accurate dating more difficult.

Directions to the Bellows Falls Petroglyphs

If you decide to visit the Bellows Falls Petroglyphs, this is how to find them.

• Start in the center of Bellows Falls and drive down Bridge Street
• Continue until you see the “Bridge Closed” sign
• Cota and Cota will be on your left
• Facing the Vilas Bridge from the Vermont side, take the dirt road on your right
• Walk about 75 feet down the trail to find a worn path
• The petroglyphs are about 55 feet south of the bridge, but not visible from above

The trail is steep, uneven, and can be slippery. There are no official signs or safety barriers.

Important Safety Tips

• Wear sturdy shoes with good traction
• Avoid visiting after rain or when rocks are wet
• Do not attempt with young children
• Be aware of your surroundings and footing at all times
• Leave the site exactly as you found it

Final Thoughts on the Bellows Falls Petroglyphs

Finding the Bellows Falls Petroglyphs turned into much more of an adventure than I expected. It is one of those experiences that feels a little wild, a little risky, and completely unforgettable.

It is also one of those stories that may or may not have required my son to promise not to tell his dad.

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