Introduction
Petrified Forest National Park is a remarkable natural wonder located in northeastern Arizona, United States. The park is renowned for its Triassic fossils, particularly the petrified wood that dates back approximately 225 million years to the Late Triassic Epoch. These fossilized logs are part of the colorful Chinle Formation, which also gives rise to the stunning Painted Desert within the park. Over 60 million years ago, tectonic forces uplifted the Colorado Plateau, exposing it to erosion. As a result, most rock layers above the Chinle Formation have been eroded away by wind and water.
Petrified Forest National Park covers about 346 square miles (900 square km). Approximately one-third of the park is designated as wilderness, covering 50,260 acres. Its landscape includes semi-desert shrub steppe and strikingly eroded badlands with vibrant colors. The park's elevation averages around 5,400 feet (1,600 m), and it experiences a dry, windy climate with temperature extremes—from scorching summer highs of around 100°F (38°C) to freezing winter lows.
More than 400 plant species thrive in the park, dominated by grasses like bunchgrass, blue grama, and sacaton. Wildlife includes pronghorns, coyotes, bobcats, deer mice, snakes, lizards, amphibians, and over 200 bird species (both permanent residents and migratory visitors).
The earliest human inhabitants arrived in the area 13,000 years ago. Pioneers, ranchers, and sightseers were drawn to collect the fascinating fossil wood. In 1906, President Theodore Roosevelt established Petrified Forest National Monument to protect these unique treasures. Later, in 1962, it was redesignated as a national park. For more information visit the park's Wikipedia page.
Hikes
There are many short hikes within the park. All are accessible via the road that runs through the park. Each one is worth stopping at and doing the short hike. In addition to the ones below, Blue Mesa, Crystal Forest, and Giant Logs are worth exploring. I am listing my four favorites. The last one, Devil’s Playground, has more distance but is well worth the hike.
Top Hikes
These three hikes are good starting points for planning, with at least one more difficult option. Distances and elevation gain are rounded; check the official park trail page for current closures, permits, weather, and trail conditions.
Blue Mesa Trail (moderate) - 1.0 mile (1.6 km); elevation gain 120 feet (37 m). A short descent into colorful badlands below Blue Mesa.
Crystal Forest Trail (easy) - 0.75 miles (1.2 km); elevation gain 80 feet (24 m). A paved loop through one of the park's most accessible petrified wood areas.
Wilderness Loop (difficult) - 7.0 miles (11.3 km); elevation gain 400 feet (122 m). A longer off-pavement route where navigation, exposure, and desert conditions matter.
Backpacking
Backpacking is only available within the wilderness area. You must camp within at least a half mile from your car. You must obtain a free permit before heading out. Bring plenty of water and layers, the nights can get pretty cold. See the NPS site for more information.
Camping and Lodging
There are no campgrounds or places to stay within the park. We stayed in Holbrook. Great town, with a Route 66 vibe.
There are two places to grab something to eat with the park. You can grab a snack at Rainbow Forest. The Painted Desert Diner has breakfast and lunch. Breakfast includes Burritos, Granola with Milk and Biscuits and Gravy. Lunch is burgers, Pizza and Taco Salad.