Where can I find all the rock carvings for the Explorer Challenge?
The Explorer Challenge in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires you to find and inspect 10 rock carvings scattered across the game world. These carvings are part of the ''Geology for Beginners'' side quest, which begins when you find the first carving near Mount Shann. Completing this challenge rewards you with a unique achievement and contributes to 100% game completion.\n\nTo start, you must first encounter Francis Sinclair, the NPC who initiates the quest. He can be found at his cabin near Strawberry, marked by a question mark on your map. After speaking with him, you’ll receive a map with vague hints about the carvings'' locations. The carvings are spread across the states of New Hanover, West Elizabeth, and Ambarino, often in remote or hard-to-reach areas.\n\nHere are the specific locations of all 10 rock carvings: 1) Mount Shann, near the peak overlooking the Dakota River. 2) Cumberland Forest, northeast of Valentine. 3) Big Valley, west of Hanging Dog Ranch. 4) Cotorra Springs, north of the Wapiti Indian Reservation. 5) Bacchus Station, east of Fort Wallace. 6) Roanoke Ridge, near the Viking Tomb. 7) Brandywine Drop, southeast of Annesburg. 8) Grizzlies East, near the O’Creagh’s Run lake. 9) Diablo Ridge, southwest of Armadillo. 10) Rio Del Lobo Rock, west of Tumbleweed.\n\nEach carving is etched into a rock face and can be inspected by approaching it and pressing the interact button. Once inspected, the carving will be marked on your map. Some carvings are hidden in dense forests or on steep cliffs, so using your Eagle Eye ability can help spot them more easily. Additionally, having a good horse with high stamina is recommended, as some locations require long rides or climbing.\n\nA common challenge players face is locating the carving near Cotorra Springs, as it’s tucked away in a narrow canyon. To find it, follow the train tracks north of the Wapiti Indian Reservation until you reach the springs. Look for a small path leading into the canyon, and the carving will be on the left side. Another tricky location is the Rio Del Lobo Rock carving, which is in the desert region of New Austin. Use the train tracks west of Tumbleweed as a reference point, and search the rocky outcrops nearby.\n\nFor players struggling with navigation, using the in-game map and setting custom markers can be incredibly helpful. The carvings are often near landmarks like rivers, train tracks, or unique rock formations, so use these as reference points. If you’re playing as Arthur Morgan, note that some carvings in New Austin are inaccessible until the epilogue, as the region is locked during the main story.\n\nOnce you’ve found all 10 carvings, return to Francis Sinclair’s cabin to complete the quest. You’ll receive a unique reward and unlock the ''Geology for Beginners'' achievement. This challenge is a great way to explore the game’s vast world and uncover its hidden secrets.\n\nPractical tips for completing the Explorer Challenge include using a guide or online map for precise locations, especially if you’re short on time. Additionally, ensure your horse is well-fed and equipped with stamina-boosting items for long journeys. Finally, take your time to enjoy the scenery and immerse yourself in the game’s rich environment while hunting for these carvings.