7 Things to do in Petrified Forest National Park

Petrified Forest National Park is a beautiful and unique destination located in northeastern Arizona. The park spans over 146 square miles and is home to some of the most spectacular views of colorful badlands, ancient petroglyphs, and of course, petrified wood. Here are 7 things to do in Petrified Forest National Park.

1. Visit the Painted Desert

The Painted Desert is a beautiful and unique area of the park that spans over 93,500 acres. This colorful desert landscape is made up of eroded badlands, mesas, and buttes that display a beautiful array of colors ranging from deep purples to bright pinks and oranges. There are several overlooks throughout the park that offer stunning views of the Painted Desert, including the Painted Desert Inn and the Puerco Pueblo.

2. Explore the Petrified Forest

One of the main attractions of the park is the petrified wood that can be found throughout the park. The petrified wood was formed over 225 million years ago and is now a beautiful display of vibrant colors and textures. Visitors can explore the petrified forest on one of the many hiking trails that wind through the park. Some popular trails include the Crystal Forest Trail, Blue Mesa Trail, and the Giant Logs Trail.

3. Visit the Rainbow Forest Museum

The Rainbow Forest Museum is located in the heart of the park and is a great place to learn more about the geology and history of the area. The museum features interactive exhibits and displays that showcase the petrified wood and the unique ecosystem of the park. Visitors can also watch a short film that provides an overview of the park and its history.

4. Discover the Ancient Ruins

Petrified Forest National Park is home to several ancient ruins and petroglyphs that provide a glimpse into the area’s rich cultural history. The Puerco Pueblo and the Agate House are two of the most well-known ruins in the park. The Puerco Pueblo is an ancient village that dates back to 1250 AD and features several well-preserved structures. The Agate House is a unique structure made entirely of petrified wood and was built by ancient Puebloan people over 700 years ago.

5. Attend a Ranger-led Program

The park offers several ranger-led programs throughout the year that provide visitors with the opportunity to learn more about the park and its unique features. Some popular programs include the Full Moon Hike, the Junior Ranger Program, and the Night Sky Program. These programs are a great way to learn more about the park while also having fun with other visitors.

6. Drive the Historic Route 66

Petrified Forest National Park is located on Historic Route 66, one of the most iconic highways in the United States. Visitors can drive along a section of the historic road that runs through the park and stop at several scenic overlooks and historic sites. The Painted Desert Inn, which now serves as a museum, is a popular stop along the route.

7. Watch the Sunset

Finally, one of the most spectacular things to do in Petrified Forest National Park is to watch the sunset over the Painted Desert. The colors of the desert come alive as the sun begins to set, creating a beautiful display of oranges, pinks, and purples. The park offers several overlooks that provide the perfect vantage point for watching the sunset.

In conclusion, Petrified Forest National Park is a unique and beautiful destination that offers visitors the opportunity to explore a rich history and unique ecosystem. From hiking trails and ancient ruins to scenic drives and ranger-led programs, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this stunning park.