Petrified Forest National Park: 10 tips for your visit

One of the largest concentrations of petrified wood in the world is found at Petrified Forest National Park in eastern Arizona, about 110 miles east of Flagstaff and 210 miles west of Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Scientific studies show that the petrified trees found within the park date back 211 to 218 million years. Add to that dramatic, colorful geological formations and ancient art and you’ll quickly see why Petrified Forest National Park is a must-visit; last year, just over 643,000 people trekked through the park.

In December 1906, President Theodore Roosevelt created Petrified Forest National Monument, and 56 years later, in 1962, it was designated a national park.

A terrific way to experience the park is by lacing up your hiking shoes and hitting the trails. A one-way spur road from the main park road leads to Blue Mesa and a one-mile loop trail in a badlands setting. Additional hiking options include the one-mile round trip Painted Desert Rim Trail; 0.3-mile Puerco Pueblo loop; 0.75-mile Crystal Forest loop; 0.4-mile Giant Logs loop; 1.6-mile Long Logs loop; and the 2-mile roundtrip Agate House trail.

To make the most of your visit, check with park staff, and consider these 10 tips, whatever time of year.

 

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