Petrified Forest Webcams (inactive)

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 thru 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 well worth the hike. 

Day Hikes

Long Logs Trail is 0.4 miles (0.6 km) with minimal elevation gain.  As the name suggests, this trail leads you to a grove of massive petrified logs. Some of these logs are over 200 feet long. The trail is paved and wheelchair-accessible, making it a great option for visitors of all abilities.

Agate House hike is 2 miles (3.2 km) round trip from the Rainbow Forest Museum parking lot. Agate House is a partially reconstructed Puebloan building in Petrified Forest National Park, built almost entirely of petrified wood. It demonstrates an innovative use of petrified wood as a building material. The house was built and occupied sometime between 1050 and 1300. The eight-room pueblo likely served as a year-round residence for a single family or even as a meeting place for the surrounding community. The scarcity of artifacts found at Agate House suggests a relatively brief occupation. The 1930s reconstruction is not a completely accurate replication of the original structure but allows us to envision the daily lives of the people who called it home. The dwelling is fragile, so please do not sit, stand, or lean on the walls.  The NPS prefers you stay 15 feet away (4 m).

Painted Desert Rim Trail is 3 miles round trip (4.8 km) with minimal elevation gain. While not as short as the previous trails, the Painted Desert Rim Trail offers breathtaking views of the colorful badlands and the vast Painted Desert. You'll witness the transition from petrified wood to the striking desert landscape.

The Devil's Playground is my favorite.  While there's no official trail once you get to the heart of the Playground, exploring its rock features and hoodoos offers a choose-your-own-adventure experience.  A free permit is required from the Petrified Forest National Park visitor center. Pick up a map while you are there. The trail is 8.2 miles (13.2 km) with 600 feet (183 m) of elevation gain. The unique rock formations and colors make this hike visually stunning. 

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.