Petrified Forest National Park

Petrified Forest National Park, located in northeastern Arizona, features one of the world’s largest collections of vibrant petrified wood across 346 square miles. This ancient landscape preserves fossils, painted desert views, and remnants of prehistoric life, as well as Native American archaeological sites.

About the experience

Petrified Forest National Park is a journey through time, offering an extraordinary landscape filled with ancient, fossilized trees and unique desert vistas. Here’s what makes it special:

  • Ancient Petrified Wood: The park is famous for its vibrant petrified logs, remnants of trees from over 200 million years ago. These logs, turned to stone, display stunning colors of red, blue, and purple, giving the park an almost otherworldly feel.
  • Painted Desert Views: The northern section of the park opens up to the Painted Desert, where layers of red, pink, and gray sands stretch across the horizon. The colorful, striated hills create a dramatic and surreal landscape.
  • Historic Sites: Along the way, explore ancient petroglyphs and the remains of past civilizations. Sites like Puerco Pueblo and Newspaper Rock give you a glimpse into the history of the Native American tribes who once inhabited the area.
  • Hiking and Exploration: Trails like the Blue Mesa Trail lead you through unique rock formations and fossil beds, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the park’s rugged beauty. Each trail offers its own distinct perspective of this remarkable landscape.

From its petrified wood to its scenic desert views, Petrified Forest National Park provides a fascinating window into the distant past, making it a must-visit for nature and history enthusiasts alike.

Interactive Map

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Schedule

The park is open year-round except on Thanksgiving and Christmas. Park hours are 8 am to 6 pm, with possible extensions during special events or the busy season.

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