All the tips to help you have an amazing trip to Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona.
Petrified Forest National Park is the perfect place to stop when traveling through Arizona. The park is located north and south between I-40 and US 180 which makes it super convenient. In addition, you can see a ton of the park in just a couple of hours.
We were on our way home from our Utah road trip and decided to stop on our way by. We explored a visitor center, walked a couple of trails, and stopped at several overlooks. It was a wonderful spot to stretch our legs.
Where is Petrified Forest National Park Located
Petrified Forest National Park is located in eastern Arizona near the border with New Mexico nestled in-between I-40 and US 180.
If you enter from the north or south entrance make sure to visit the visitor center before exploring the park. You can pick up a junior ranger booklet, ask questions to rangers, and visit the small museum. We started at the south end of the park off of US 180 and exited the park at I-40 to continue on our road trip.
Where to Stay
The closest town to Petrified Forest National Park is Holbrook which has several hotel options. Holbrook is located at the intersection of US 180 and I-40.
While there is no overnight accommodation available in the park, there is food available at the Painted Desert Diner which also offers grab-and-go food. The diner is located next to the Painted Desert Visitor Center.
What to See at Petrified Forest National Park
Giant Logs Trail
Located behind the Rainbow Forest Museum and Visitor Center, this 0.4-mile loop trail is a great first stop to get up close with some of the largest petrified logs in the park including “Old Faithful”.
Crystal Forest
This 0.75-mile loop trail is paved and takes you through a badlands landscape with many petrified logs.
Blue Mesa Trail
Located along Blue Mesa loop drive is a steep 1-mile loop trail that allows you to enter the vibrant badlands that also included petrified logs. The majority of the trail is relatively flat, however, to enter the badlands you must descend quite a bit, which means you must climb back out at the end of the hike.
Must See Overlooks
- The Teepees Viewpoint
- Newspaper Rock
- Painted Desert Overlooks
Have you visited Petrified Forest National Park?
