Petrified Dunes in Arches National Park

Petrified Dunes

Ancient sand dunes

Plan Around Petrified Dunes

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Petrified Dunes Details

The Petrified Dunes in Arches National Park are a remarkable geological formation, sculpted over 200 million years. These ancient dunes, once buried under layers of sand, dirt, and salt, have transformed into solid sandstone through immense pressure over time. The erosion of the upper layers has revealed the original dunes, now petrified into rock. Visitors can freely explore this area, though there are no marked trails, so awareness of your route is crucial. It's advisable to bring extra water and sun protection for this adventure. The Petrified Dunes are located halfway between Courthouse Towers and Balanced Rock, offering a stunning view from the Petrified Dunes Viewpoint, with the majestic La Sal Mountains in the backdrop. This site offers a unique opportunity to explore and appreciate the beauty and history of these ancient formations.

Difficulty

Low

Distance

N/A

Estimated time

N/A

Region

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Nearby Parks Around Petrified Dunes

Compare nearby parks around Petrified Dunes when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.

3.8 mi away

Arches

National Park · UT

19.0 mi away

Canyonlands

National Park · UT

94.2 mi away

Capitol Reef

National Park · UT

102.9 mi away

Black Canyon

National Park · CO

112.1 mi away

Mesa Verde

National Park · CO

157.1 mi away

Bryce Canyon

National Park · UT

Nearby Points of Interest Around Petrified Dunes

Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Petrified Dunes while the map context is still fresh.

0.6 mi away

The Great Wall

The aptly named Great Wall.

1.4 mi away

Rock Pinnacles

A collection of evocative spires.

1.9 mi away

Tower of Babel

One of the most imposing formations in all of Arches

2.1 mi away

Courthouse Towers Viewpoint

Bring your binoculars for an even closer look.

2.1 mi away

Sheep Rock

Sheep Rock is probably the leg of a giant collapsed arch.