O'Dell Hidden Cove Park
Owned and operated by the City of Holbrook, AZ
Discover thousands of years of human history carved in stone. Experience the sacred art of ancient peoples in one of the Southwest's most remarkable archaeological treasures.
O'Dell Hidden Cove Park: History, Nature, and Art
Located in Holbrook, AZ, O'Dell Hidden Cove Park is a unique destination where history, wildlife, and ancient art come together. Explore a century-old ranch, view more than 300 petroglyphs, and discover nearly 200 bird species—all in one spectacular place.
Petroglyphs
For thousands of years, the inhabitants of what is now O'Dell Hidden Cove Park documented their lives through rock art. Ancient Americans chiseled, pecked, scratched, or abraded symbols into rock, creating what are called petroglyphs. These petroglyphs are extremely fragile and sacred to the Hopi and Zuni Tribes, and once they are ruined, they can never be recovered. Please respect the artists of the past by looking, not touching.
Zuck Historic Ranch
On the southeast side of O'Dell Hidden Cove Park lies the ranch that belonged to the Zuck family. Here, the Zucks and their predecessors raised cattle and sheep, farmed, and channeled water from the nearby Leroux Wash. Archaeologists believe the ranch is more than a century old. During your visit, stop to see the ruins, fences, and old windmill.
Wildlife Viewing
O'Dell Hidden Cove Park has an outstanding abundance of wildlife. In addition to deer, lizards, bats, squirrels, and other vertebrates, there are more than 200 species of birds! The pond and picnic area are excellent places to view these animals. As riparian habitat has been disappearing, O'Dell Hidden Cove Park is becoming an even more important home for wildlife.
Archaeological Significance
A very unique petroglyph site in Arizona, with images spanning centuries of indigenous history.
Natural Beauty
Set against dramatic sandstone landscapes, offering breathtaking views and unique geological formations.
Educational Experience
Guided tours provide deep insights into indigenous cultures, archaeology, and the preservation of cultural heritage.
Explore the Ancient Art
Journey through our collection of photographs, showcasing the remarkable petroglyphs and stunning landscapes of the park.
Petroglyph panel showing shapes and figures
Dramatic sandstone landscape featuring natural stone arches
Intricate petroglyphs depicting a hunting scene
Petroglyphs created by ancient inhabitants—please look, don't touch.
Photography Guidelines
- •Photography is permitted in designated areas
- •Please maintain respectful distance from petroglpyhs
- •Commercial photography requires special permits
What You'll See
- •Animal figures including birds, mammals, and reptiles
- •Human figures and handprints
- •Geometric patterns and symbols
- •Astronomical and calendrical markers
Visitor Information & Tips
Make the most of your visit to O'Dell Hidden Cove Park with these helpful tips and highlights.
Safety Tips
- Bring plenty of water – no matter the temperature.
- Wear sunglasses and a hat in warm weather.
- Wear sturdy footwear, preferably with ankle support (hiking boots recommended).
- Always stay with your tour guide!
- Pets must be on a leash.
Bring Your Binoculars!
- Spot animals and petroglyphs better by using binoculars.
- Find the subject with unaided eyes, then bring binoculars up slowly.
- Sight the subject over the tops of the eyepieces, then bring binoculars to your eyes.
Guided Tours
- The City of Holbrook offers guided tours by appointment only, preferably 24 hours in advance.
- For tour information, call Darlene at 928-414-3884.
Golf Course
- The Hidden Cove 9-Hole Golf Course is right next to the park.
- For more information, call 928-524-6225.
Park Highlights
- Over 300 petroglyphs
- Nearly 200 bird species
- A 100-year-old historic ranch
- All in one spectacular place!
Plan Your Visit
Experience the wonder of ancient petroglyphs with our expert guide. Reserve your tour today and step into history.
Reserve Your Tour
Phone (Darlene)
Tour Hours
Daily: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
If you would like to schedule a tour outside of these hours, please contact the tour guide.
Advance Reservations
Recommended 24 hours in advance
Group tours (10+) require 1 week notice
Tour Options
Standard Guided Tour
Duration: 2 hours
$25: Adults (12 & over)
$10: Archaeology Groups/Colleges (per person)
Explore the petroglyphs with our knowledgeable guide. Learn about the history, culture, and significance of the ancient symbols.
What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, water bottle, and camera (optional).
Difficulty: Moderate walking on uneven terrain. Please inform us of any mobility concerns.
Your Guide
Darlene Brinkerhoff
Petroglyph Recorder & Researcher
Petroglyph recorder and researcher of over 40 years. Assisted with archaeological projects in Arizona, New Mexico, and Colorado.
"Petroglyphs/pictographs are NOT a form of art, but of the southwestern cultures who still reside in the U.S."— Darlene Brinkerhoff
Location & Directions
Address
Hidden Cove Golf Course
1500 Golf Course Rd
Holbrook, AZ 86025
GPS Coordinates
34.918479"N -110.194014"WDriving Directions
Take Exit 283 north of I-40. Take the winding road adjacent to the sandstone rocky outcrops until you reach the golf course.
Parking
Free parking available at the Hidden Cove Golf Course upon arrival.
Nearby Attractions
While O'Dell Hidden Cove Park is a destination in itself, visitors may also enjoy these nearby attractions to enhance their desert experience.
Navajo County Historical Courthouse
5.6 miles away
Regional information center with exhibits and local history.
Hidden Cove Golf Course
0 miles away
Unique golf course with a challenging layout and beautiful views.
The Petrified Forest National Park
30.2 miles away
National park with petrified wood and dinosaur fossils.
The Wigwam Motel
4.3 miles away
A landmark on historic Route 66
The Bucket of Blood Saloon
5.1 miles away
Historic landmark where a gunfight erupted in the drinking hole, popular with cowboys and ruffians.
Note: Distances and availability may vary. We recommend contacting individual attractions for current hours and information. The park staff can provide additional recommendations based on your interests and schedule.
In Memory of Michael O'Dell
Dedicated Preserver (1956-2022)
A Legacy of Preservation
In 2022, the City of Holbrook, AZ renamed and dedicated the park in honor of long time city employee and tour guide Michael O'Dell for his love and dedication to the protection and preservation of the park. Michael worked tirelessly so that the park's natural beauty and history could be shared for generations to come.
A Life of Service & Community Impact
Michael dedicated his life to serving The City of Holbrook that he loved so much, over his 43 years of employment with the City of Holbrook starting in 1975, he held a position within nearly every department. Michael organized many cleanups and events for Holbrook through Arizona Clean and Beautiful. He was involved in many preservation projects. The Holbrook old west Cemetery group, the history of Holbrook group, the bucket of blood Saloon project, he was a member of The Defenders of Wildlife and had taken action to protect both wildlife and wildlands. He showed a true appreciation for our nation's natural heritage. He ended his time within the city, doing his passion of sharing, preserving and protecting our beautiful petroglyph park and surrounding land.
The Park's Foundation
The park's origins predate Michael's involvement, but his vision and determination helped transform it into a protected sanctuary for future generations to study and appreciate.
"The land is a part of me and I am a part of the land."— Michael O'Dell
Continuing His Vision
The City of Holbrook, AZ continues Michael's mission of education, preservation, and cultural respect. The park serves as a living testament to his belief that understanding our shared human heritage creates bridges between cultures and generations.
Visitors to the park walk in the footsteps of both ancient peoples and a modern visionary who understood that some treasures are too precious to lose.