Petrified Forest
Petrified Forest National Park may not be as well-known as the Grand Canyon, but it’s absolutely worth the drive. Walking through its rainbow-colored desert hills and ancient stone trees—frozen in time for over 200 million years—feels like stepping into another world. Many visitors only stop by for a couple of hours, but if you enjoy short hikes and scenic pull-offs, you can easily spend the whole day exploring.
Entrance Fee: $25 per vehicle, valid for 7 days. $15/person for other pedestrians.
Popular Trails
Crystal Forest Trail
- Distance: 0.8 miles loop
- Difficulty: Easy
- Type: Loop
- Why it’s worth it: See some of the most dazzling petrified logs up close—great for kids and photographers.
Blue Mesa Trail
- Distance: 1 mile loop
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Type: Loop
- Why it’s worth it: A favorite for photographers, with striking blue-and-purple badlands and petrified wood.
Blue Forest Trail
- Distance: 3 miles round-trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Type: Out and back
- Why it’s worth it: A lightly marked trail that feels adventurous but still manageable—great for avoiding crowds.
Scenic Stops
- Painted Desert Overlooks – Gorgeous layered colors, best at sunrise or sunset.
- Newspaper Rock – Over 650 petroglyphs carved by ancestral Puebloan peoples.
- Route 66 Alignment – See the remains of the historic highway, marked with a vintage car.
Why Visit
- Unique fossilized trees over 200 million years old.
- Smaller crowds than other Arizona parks.
- Perfect for a half-day to full-day adventure.
FAQs – Petrified Forest National Park
Q: How much does it cost to enter?
A: $25 per vehicle for a 7-day pass. Motorcycles are $20, and individuals are $15.
Q: How long do I need to visit?
A: Most people spend 3–4 hours, but a full day lets you enjoy more trails and scenic stops.
Q: Can I take pieces of petrified wood home?
A: No, removing petrified wood is strictly prohibited. Souvenirs are available at gift shops.
Q: What’s the best time of year to visit?
A: Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and clear skies. Summer can be hot, and winter brings colder temps.