Petrified Forest National Park
The Late Triassic period may have occurred 225 million years ago, but it comes to life again at Petrified Forest National Park.
Plan Around Petrified Forest National Park
A good stop is not just something to read about. Once it belongs on the day, move into a saved trip and build the route around it.
Use this detail page to confirm that the stop is worth it, then carry that decision into a trip draft while the park context is still fresh.
Petrified Forest National Park Details
Petrified Forest National Park, located in Arizona, is a unique and captivating destination for visitors of all ages. The park spans over 146 square miles and is home to a diverse array of geological and paleontological wonders that date back to the Late Triassic period, which occurred approximately 225 million years ago. What makes Petrified Forest National Park so special is the abundance of petrified wood found throughout the park. This fossilized wood was once part of an ancient forest that covered the area during the Late Triassic period. Over time, the logs were buried under layers of sediment, which eventually turned them into stone. Today, visitors can see petrified logs that are up to 200 feet long and 10 feet in diameter. In addition to petrified wood, the park is home to a variety of other fossils, including fossilized ferns, cycads, ginkgoes, giant reptiles and amphibians, as well as early dinosaurs. These fossils provide valuable insight into what life was like during the Late Triassic period. Visitors to Petrified Forest National Park can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking, backpacking, camping, and scenic drives. There are over 200 miles of hiking trails within the park, ranging from easy nature walks to more challenging backcountry hikes. The park also offers several designated campsites, as well as backcountry camping permits for those who want to explore the more remote areas of the park. The human history of the area is also rich and varied. The park is home to several ancient puebloan ruins, as well as historic Route 66, which once served as a major thoroughfare for travelers heading west. Facilities within the park include a visitor center, museum, and several picnic areas. The park is also home to the Painted Desert Inn, a historic hotel that was built in the 1920s and has since been converted into a museum. Travel tips for visiting Petrified Forest National Park include bringing plenty of water and sunscreen, as well as sturdy hiking shoes. Visitors should also be aware of the park's strict regulations regarding the collection of petrified wood and other fossils. Nearby attractions include the Grand Canyon, which is located approximately 100 miles to the northwest, and the city of Flagstaff, which offers a variety of cultural and recreational activities for visitors to enjoy.
Difficulty
Distance
N/A
Estimated time
Region
Arizona
Nearby Parks Around Petrified Forest National Park
Compare nearby parks around Petrified Forest National Park when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.
Nearby Points of Interest Around Petrified Forest National Park
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Petrified Forest National Park while the map context is still fresh.
0.0 mi away
Petrified Forest National Park
The Late Triassic period may have occurred 225 million years ago, but it comes to life again at Petrified Forest National Park.
0.0 mi away
Painted Desert Visitor Center
Just off Interstate 40 is the Painted Desert Visitor Center, in the north unit of the park.
0.0 mi away
Painted Desert Community Complex
The Painted Desert Community Complex encompasses 23 buildings, sites and structures that make up a self-contained desert community.
0.1 mi away
North Entrance Station
The North Entrance Station for Petrified Forest National Park is just north of Interstate 40 near the park's main visitor center.
0.3 mi away
Petrified Forest Road
Petrified Forest Road, the main park road, runs north-south for 28 miles from end to end.
