Petrified Forest National Park
Petrified Forest National Park Overview
Petrified Forest National Park is located in northeastern Arizona, spanning Navajo and Apache counties. The park is famous for its extensive collection of petrified wood and covers an area of approximately 346 square miles (900 square kilometers). It includes semidesert shrub-steppe landscapes and vibrant badlands shaped by erosion.
Situated at an average elevation of 5,400 feet (1,600 meters), the park experiences a dry and windy climate with temperatures ranging from summer highs of around 100 °F (38 °C) to winter lows well below freezing. The park is home to over 400 plant species, primarily grasses like bunchgrass, blue grama, and sacaton. Wildlife in the park includes pronghorns, coyotes, bobcats, deer mice, snakes, lizards, amphibians, and over 200 bird species, some residing permanently while others are migratory.
The Petrified Forest is renowned for its fossils, particularly petrified trees that existed during the Late Triassic Epoch about 225 million years ago. These fossil logs are found within the colorful Chinle Formation, which also gives rise to the Painted Desert’s name.
Things to do in Petrified Forest National Park
Petrified Forest National Park offers a wealth of activities and experiences for visitors of all interests and ages. Let’s dive into the different ways you can experience the wonders of this remarkable national park.
Explore Visitor Centers and Exhibits
The Petrified Forest National Park has several visitor centers and exhibits that provide valuable information and insights into the park’s history, geology, and natural wonders.
Painted Desert Visitor Center: This center offers interactive exhibits that introduce the park’s geology, paleontology, and cultural history. Visitors can also find information about park activities, ranger-led programs, and trip-planning resources.
Rainbow Forest Museum: The museum features displays that showcase the various colors and patterns found in the petrified wood, as well as information on the process of petrification. Visitors can also explore the museum’s fossil and mineral exhibits.
Painted Desert Inn National Historic Landmark: This is a unique and historic structure that serves as a window into the park’s cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the building’s architecture, learn about its history as a hotel and trading post, and admire the stunning.
Visiting Museum Demonstration Lab
Visit the Museum Demonstration Lab at the Painted Desert Visitor Center to witness unique fossils from Petrified Forest National Park being worked on by skilled paleontologists. You can observe fossils from the museum collection through a window, watch live microscope footage on TV as experts carefully extract rock from fossil bones, and even engage in conversations with scientists using a two-way, hands-free speaker system.
Drive through the park
Driving through Petrified Forest National Park is a popular and convenient way to experience the park’s stunning landscapes and geological wonders. Along the Petrified Forest Road, numerous scenic overlooks provide panoramic vistas of the park’s diverse terrain.
Besides that, the Petrified Forest Road is dotted with interpretive stops, where visitors can learn about the park’s geology, paleontology, and cultural history through informative signage and exhibits. These stops provide a deeper understanding of the park’s natural and cultural significance.
The Petrified Forest Road is well-maintained and accessible for most vehicles, making it a convenient option for visitors of all abilities. However, it’s important to note that some of the park’s more remote and rugged areas may require high-clearance or four-wheel-drive vehicles.
Hit the Trail
Petrified Forest National Park offers a network of hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the park’s diverse landscapes and natural wonders up close. From easy, family-friendly trails to more challenging routes, there are options for hikers of all skill levels. The main clusters of hiking trails for visitors include:
Tawa Trail
Painted Desert Rim Trail
Puerco Pueblo
Blue Mesa
Crystal Forest
Giant Logs
Long Logs
Guided Activities
In 2024, Petrified Forest National Park will introduce new activities. These include popular backcountry hikes, interactive touch tables at the museum, plaza, and along trails, as well as the paleo demo lab which will still facilitate interactions between scientists and the public.
Hiking
Hiking is one of the best ways to experience the captivating landscapes and geological wonders of Petrified Forest National Park. The park’s extensive trail system offers a variety of hiking options, catering to visitors of all skill levels.
The park’s trail network includes both easy, family-friendly hikes as well as more challenging routes for experienced hikers. Many of the park’s hiking trails showcase the stunning natural beauty of the Painted Desert and the petrified forests.
For those interested in the park’s geological history, there are hiking trails that lead visitors to significant fossil sites and unique rock formations. These hikes provide an up-close look at the processes that shaped the park’s landscape over millions of years.
It’s important for hikers to be prepared for the park’s arid climate and rugged terrain.
Backpacking
RVs, cars, and front country camping are not allowed in the park. Boondocking, dispersed camping, or parking in non-designated areas is also prohibited.
Visitors can only camp by backpacking into the designated Petrified Forest National Wilderness Area, at least half a mile away from their vehicle.
A free backpacking wilderness permit is required and can be obtained in person on the day of backpacking at either the Painted Desert Visitor Center or Rainbow Forest Museum visitor centers.
Bicycling
You are allowed to ride bicycles, including e-bikes, on paved park roads and parking areas that are open to the public, such as the Painted Desert Scenic Drive and the Wilderness Road. Please be cautious when riding along park roads, as everyone is likely distracted by the scenic views.
Horseback Riding
Horseback riding is another unique way to experience the vast and diverse landscapes of Petrified Forest National Park.
The park partners with local outfitters to offer guided horseback riding tours, allowing visitors to explore the park’s trails and terrain from the back of a horse.
Visitors who wish to bring their own horses to the park must obtain a permit and adhere to the park’s regulations regarding equestrian use. Horseback riding in Petrified Forest National Park requires appropriate gear, equipment, and experience. Visitors should also be aware of the park’s terrain and weather conditions before embarking on a horseback riding adventure.
Geocaching
Geocaching is like a modern-day treasure hunt that takes place in the real world. There are millions of geocaches hidden all over the globe, in various locations such as parks, cities, forests, deserts, mountains, and even underwater.
Petrified Forest National Park has set up geocaches within the park for visitors to enjoy. It’s important to remember that creating unauthorized geocaches on lands managed by organizations like the National Park Service is usually not allowed. So, please refrain from making your own geocaches in these areas.
Places to stay in Petrified Forest National Park
Petrified Forest National Park offers a variety of accommodation options, catering to visitors with different preferences and budgets.
Camping
For those seeking a more immersive outdoor experience, the park’s camping facilities provide a great option.
Backcountry Camping
Visitors interested in a more remote and rugged camping experience can explore the park’s backcountry camping opportunities. This requires a permit and adherence to the park’s regulations.
Organized Campgrounds
Petrified Forest National Park has several organized campgrounds, including the Painted Desert and the Rainbow Forest Campgrounds. These campgrounds offer basic amenities, such as picnic tables, fire pits, and restrooms.
Hotel and Resort
For those who prefer more traditional accommodations, there are several hotels and resorts located near the park’s boundaries.
Best Western Arizonian Inn (2-star)
Situated in Holbrook, AZ, the Best Western Arizonian Inn guarantees a tranquil and cozy stay for all guests. The hotel features a seasonal outdoor pool and serves a daily hot breakfast. Each guest room is equipped with central heating and air conditioning. Conveniently located, Holbrook Airport is just a 2-minute drive away, while Holbrook Plaza Shopping Center is a 3-minute drive from the hotel. The famous Petrified Forest National Park is only 3 miles away.
- Address: 2508 Navajo Blvd, Holbrook, AZ 86025
- Price Range: From $110
Travelodge by Wyndham Holbrook (2-star)
Travelodge by Wyndham Holbrook provides a family-friendly environment that offers various amenities tailored for travelers like yourself.
The rooms at Travelodge by Wyndham Holbrook are equipped with a flat-screen TV, air conditioning, and a refrigerator. Additionally, guests can enjoy a pool and complimentary breakfast to enhance their stay. Don’t forget to visit a well-known filet mignon restaurant in Holbrook, such as Butterfield Stage Co Steak House, located near Travelodge Holbrook.
- Address: 2418 Navajo Blvd, Holbrook, AZ 86025-1829
- Price Range: From $66
Wigwam Motel
Wigwam Motel is a great option for Holbrook visitors, providing a delightful atmosphere and various useful amenities to make your stay more enjoyable. For those seeking activities nearby, the Navajo County Historical Museum, located just 0.6 miles away, is a well-liked attraction that can be easily reached on foot from Wigwam Motel.
- Address: 811 W Hopi Dr, Holbrook, AZ 86025-2853
- Price Range: $69 – $76
Dining
The Painted Desert Diner and a snack shop are situated near the Painted Desert Visitor Center. Limited snacks can also be bought at the gift shop in Rainbow Forest. These facilities are managed by the National Parks Service.
Treat yourself to comfort food classics at The Painted Desert Diner, a family-friendly restaurant located near the park’s visitor center. Enjoy hearty breakfasts, homestyle lunches, and decadent desserts in a cozy atmosphere reminiscent of a classic roadside diner.
- Address: 1 Park Rd, Petrified Forest National Park, AZ 86028-9997
- Open time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Prices range: $10 – 15
Planning Your Trip to Petrified Forest National Park
To make the most of your visit to Petrified Forest National Park, it’s important to plan your trip carefully. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:
Visiting Time
The best time to visit Petrified Forest National Park can vary depending on your preferences and the activities you plan to enjoy.
The park’s peak season is typically during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and comfortable for outdoor activities. While the park is open year-round, the winter and summer months can be more challenging, with potentially extreme temperatures and limited services.
The best time to visit Petrified Forest National Park is Spring
Rainbow at Petrified Forest National Park
Landscape at Petrified Forest National Park in autumn
Landscape at Petrified Forest National Park in winter
Transportation
Petrified Forest National Park is accessible by several modes of transportation.
The park is located along Interstate 40, making it easily accessible by car. Visitors can also access the park via state highways and local roads. While the park does not have a public transportation system, visitors can explore options for reaching the park through regional bus or shuttle services.
Petrified Forest National Park Map
Conclusion
Petrified Forest National Park offers a unique and diverse experience for visitors, with a range of activities to suit every interest. When planning your trip to Petrified Forest National Park, consider the best time to visit based on your interests and the duration of your stay.
Overall, Petrified Forest National Park is a treasure trove of natural wonders and outdoor adventures waiting to be explored. Plan your trip today and discover the wonders of Petrified Forest National Park for yourself!
