top of page

Petrified Forest National Park, Visitor's Guide

Writer's picture: Amazing Parks TeamAmazing Parks Team

Updated: Nov 15, 2024

Nestled in northeastern Arizona, Petrified Forest National Park offers a mesmerizing landscape where vibrant petrified wood, colorful desert vistas, and ancient fossils come together to tell the story of a time long before humans roamed the earth. This park, rich with geological history and archaeological wonders, provides a unique experience for those interested in exploring the beauty of ancient forests, Painted Desert landscapes, and remnants of early civilizations. Visitors to this one-of-a-kind national treasure can expect an unforgettable experience that combines natural beauty, historical insights, and outdoor adventure.


Petrified Forest National Park, multicolored wood
Petrified Forest National Park, multicolored wood - Lost_in_the_Midwest

Key Takeaways

  • Discover the beauty of the Painted Desert and ancient petrified wood.

  • Walk through fossilized forests and colorful desert landscapes.

  • Explore seasonal activities that highlight the park’s diverse environments.

  • Visit must-see historical and geological sites, including petroglyphs and ancestral Puebloan ruins.

  • Enjoy accessible trails, viewpoints, and picnic areas.

  • Plan ahead for ticket information, weather conditions, and tips for a smooth visit.


Exploring the Petrified Forest Across Seasons

The Petrified Forest National Park offers unique experiences throughout the year, allowing visitors to witness the landscape change with the seasons. Here’s a closer look at what to expect:


Spring Highlights

  • Wildflower Blooms: Enjoy colorful displays of desert wildflowers scattered throughout the park.

  • Nature Walks: Ideal weather makes spring perfect for hiking and exploring trails like the Blue Mesa and Giant Logs.

  • Birdwatching: Spot migratory birds taking advantage of the springtime blooms.


Summer Activities

  • Scenic Drives: Take a drive along the Petrified Forest Road to enjoy the Painted Desert Overlook and Kachina Point.

  • Visitor Center Programs: Participate in guided ranger talks and workshops at the Rainbow Forest Museum.

  • Stargazing Events: Summer nights in the desert are ideal for stargazing events hosted by park rangers.


Fall Season

  • Cooler Hikes: Enjoy comfortable temperatures for hiking, with breathtaking views of the shifting desert hues.

  • Archaeology Programs: Discover petroglyph sites and Puebloan ruins, perfect for history enthusiasts.

  • Wildlife Viewing: Autumn provides excellent opportunities for viewing local wildlife, especially along the Puerco River.


Winter Wonders

  • Solitude and Quiet: Winter months offer fewer visitors, giving you a peaceful experience of the park’s surreal beauty.

  • Photography: Capture stunning winter light on the colorful rock formations and petrified wood.

  • Ranger-Led Hikes: Participate in educational winter hikes, available only during this quiet season.


Must-See Attractions

Each area of the park is unique and offers a glimpse into different aspects of its natural and cultural history. Here are some must-see stops to add to your itinerary:


Rainbow Forest Museum and Visitor Center

  • Interpretive Exhibits: Explore displays on fossils, paleontology, and park history.

  • Gift Shop: Pick up souvenirs, books, and petrified wood items (remember that collecting petrified wood from the park itself is prohibited).

  • Ranger Programs: Participate in talks and guided walks offered daily.


Exterior view of the Rainbow Forest Museum
Exterior view of the Rainbow Forest Museum - Kit Leong

Crystal Forest

  • Scenic Loop Trail: A short loop trail allows visitors to walk through a dense field of colorful petrified wood.

  • Fossils and Minerals: Spot shimmering quartz crystals embedded in the petrified wood.


Crystal Forest Petrified Wood, Petrified Forest National Park
Crystal Forest Petrified Wood, Petrified Forest National Park - Kasbah

Painted Desert Inn

  • Historic Landmark: This inn is a restored lodge from the 1930s with beautiful views of the Painted Desert.

  • Museum Displays: View exhibits on Native American history, the Civilian Conservation Corps, and early tourism.


Painted Desert Inn, historic complex along former US Route 66
Painted Desert Inn, historic complex along former US Route 66 - Amehime

Puerco Pueblo Ruins

  • Ancient Pueblo Village: Explore the remnants of an ancestral Puebloan village dating back over 600 years.

  • Petroglyphs: See rock art carved into stones that tell stories of the people who once lived here.


Beautiful landscape of Puerco Pueblo, Petrified Forest National Park at Arizona
Beautiful landscape of Puerco Pueblo, Petrified Forest National Park at Arizona - Kit Leong

Events and Activities

Throughout the year, Petrified Forest National Park hosts various events that highlight the region's history, geology, and cultural significance:

  • Guided Ranger Talks: “Our ranger-guided talks offer visitors a glimpse into the ancient ecosystems that shaped this park,” says a park ranger. These talks cover a range of topics from fossils to indigenous history.

  • Junior Ranger Program: Families with children can enjoy this educational program, where kids complete activities to earn a Junior Ranger badge.

  • Artist-in-Residence Events: Periodically, artists live and work in the park, creating pieces inspired by the landscape.

  • Cultural Demonstrations: Learn about Native American history and crafts through demonstrations by local artisans.


Dining and Refreshments

While dining options within Petrified Forest are limited, nearby Holbrook offers a variety of restaurants where you can sample local flavors. Here’s a look at the options close to the park:


Painted Desert Diner

  • Location: Painted Desert Visitor Center

  • Menu Highlights:

    • Fresh sandwiches

    • Refreshing beverages

    • Light snacks and coffee


Local Dining in Holbrook

  • Dine on classic Southwestern cuisine at local spots in Holbrook, including Navajo Tacos and fresh enchiladas.

  • Holbrook Café: A favorite for breakfast and lunch, featuring hearty American classics.


Planning Your Visit

To make the most of your trip, it’s important to plan ahead, especially if you’re visiting during peak seasons or if you’re interested in specific ranger-led activities. Here’s some helpful information:

Ticket Prices as of: 10/31/2024

Adult Daily Pass: $20

Child Daily Pass: Free (under 16)

Annual Park Pass: $80

What to Bring

  • Sturdy shoes for hiking over rocky terrain.

  • Sunscreen, hat, and plenty of water for hot days.

  • Layers for cooler evenings in the desert.


Accessibility

Many viewpoints and trails are wheelchair accessible; check with visitor centers for details.

  • Pets: Leashed pets are allowed on designated trails and certain areas.


History and Legacy of Petrified Forest

The Petrified Forest National Park has a rich and diverse history that spans over 200 million years. Here’s a look at some key moments:

  • Triassic Period Origins: The park’s famous petrified wood dates back to over 200 million years ago during the Triassic period when it was part of a lush forest.

  • Native American Heritage: Ancient indigenous cultures inhabited this area, leaving behind petroglyphs and artifacts.

  • 1931 National Monument: Designated as a national monument to preserve its unique geological features.

  • 1962 National Park Status: Officially became a national park, expanding protections and visitor facilities.


Rauisuchids and Aetosaurs fossils, from the Triassic period, at Rainbow Forest Museum, in Petrified Forest National Park
Rauisuchids and Aetosaurs fossils, from the Triassic period, at Rainbow Forest Museum, in Petrified Forest National Park - PICTOR PICTURES

Petroglyphs on display, inside the Painted Desert Inn, a historic museum and bookstore, at Petrified Forest National Park
Petroglyphs on display, inside the Painted Desert Inn, a historic museum and bookstore, at Petrified Forest National Park - PICTOR PICTURES

Wildlife and Nature

The park is home to a range of desert flora and fauna, offering visitors a chance to see unique species adapted to the arid environment:

  • Plants:

    • Native cacti and yucca plants

    • Wildflowers, including desert marigold and evening primrose

  • Animals:

    • Pronghorn antelope

    • Coyotes

    • Desert tortoises


Weather Throughout The Year

Here’s a breakdown of the average temperatures to help you plan for the weather:

Month

Low Temp (°F)

High Temp (°F)

January

24

47

February

27

52

March

32

59

April

38

68

May

46

76

June

55

87

July

61

91

August

60

89

September

53

82

October

42

70

November

31

56

December

25

48

Petrified Forest National Park is a captivating destination that offers an unparalleled glimpse into the prehistoric past, a vibrant present, and a legacy that’s carefully preserved for future generations. From walking among fossilized trees to exploring ancient petroglyphs, this park is a must-visit for anyone interested in natural history and unique landscapes. Whether you're drawn by the geological wonders, the stark beauty of the Painted Desert, or the peaceful solitude, Petrified Forest National Park is an Arizona treasure waiting to be discovered.

Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona - Galyna Andrushko

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I take petrified wood from the park?

    No, collecting petrified wood from the park is prohibited to preserve the landscape for future generations.

  • Are pets allowed in the park?

    Yes, leashed pets are allowed on certain trails and in some areas.

  • What is the best time of year to visit?

    Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures, with mild weather perfect for hiking and sightseeing.

  • Are there accommodations within the park?

    There are no accommodations within the park, but nearby Holbrook offers a range of hotels and motels.

  • Is there a fee to enter the park?

    Yes, there is an entry fee, with various passes available depending on your needs.

Comments


bottom of page