The Blythe Intaglios are a group of gigantic earth figures found on the ground near Blythe, CA. These intaglios are east of the Big Maria Mountains, about 15 miles north of Blythe - just west of Highway 95 near the Colorado River. The intaglios are best viewed from the air, and that is exactly how they were discovered. In 1932, local pilot George Palmer was flying over the Colorado River into Blythe when he accidentally spotted the formations below him.
Intaglios are gigantic human, animal and geometric figures on the ground surface. The ground drawings are situated on two low mesas or terraces, but not too worry, it’s an easy hike. There are several figures in three locations. The figures include two large humans, a feline and a concentric circle and a spiral. The largest human figure measures 171 feet from head to toe.
The dates of origin remain a mystery but the figures are believed to between 450 to 2000 years old. According to the Native Americans of the lower Colorado River area, their oral histories believe the human figures represent Mastamho, the creator of all life. The animal figures represent Hatakulya, one of two mountain lions who helped in the creation. Sacred ceremonial dances were held in the area in ancient times to honor the creation. The Blythe Intaglios have been fenced to prevent further damage. We don’t want to spoil it for everyone else, so we only posted the man; you will have to go see the others… ;)
Of course since we were already in the Big Maria Mountains, we had to scout out the area. Unfortunately, most of the trails had been closed, so we only found a few to explore. High clearance vehicle recommended to explore the back country, however not to get to the intaglios.
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| Metal Detecting = Nails ;( |
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| Do you see the "dragon"? |
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| Where's the road? |
It seems Max puts all his energy into exploring the back country, as soon as he knew we were heading home – it’s nap time. This time was NO different!! Oh, until he heard river! Yes, we saw a river not far from the road when driving to find the intaglios, so we were talking about finding access to let Max swim. It turned out to be the Palo Verde Diversion Dam, a very deep and crystal clear dam. And yes, Max got to swim!! =)
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| Are you watching me? |
Spring is coming, so it want be long and we will get to join Max for a swim!
“You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.” ~ Mae West
