Petrified Forest National Park, Apache County Travel Guide

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Discover ancient petrified wood and colorful landscapes in Arizona's Petrified Forest National Park, a unique journey through time and natural history.

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Petrified Forest National Park

Explore the surreal landscapes of Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona, where ancient petrified wood lies scattered across the colorful Painted Desert. Discover over 13,000 years of human history and marvel at the unique geological formations of this captivating national park.

A brief summary to Petrified Forest National Park

Monday 8 am-5 pm
Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
Thursday 8 am-5 pm
Friday 8 am-5 pm
Saturday 8 am-5 pm
Sunday 8 am-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Petrified Forest National Park.

Visit during the spring or fall for milder temperatures and fewer crowds.
Bring plenty of water, especially during the summer months, as temperatures can exceed 90°F (32°C).
Wear comfortable shoes for hiking the trails and exploring the park's diverse landscapes.
Do not remove any petrified wood or other natural objects from the park, as it is illegal and harms the environment.
Check the operating hours before you go, as the park closes at night.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Fort Apache Historical Park

Goldfield Ghost Town and Mine Tours Inc.

Newspaper Rock State Historic Monument

Painted Desert Inn

Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site

Explore Petrified Forest National Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Petrified Forest National Park, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

Petrified Forest National Park is located off Interstate 40 in northeastern Arizona. The park has two entrances: one at Exit 311 for westbound travelers and another via Highway 180 from Holbrook (Exit 285) for eastbound travelers. The drive through the park on the main road is 28 miles long. There are parking areas near the visitor centers and trailheads. The entrance fee is $25 per vehicle, valid for seven days. Credit or debit cards are the only accepted forms of payment.

Discover more about Petrified Forest National Park

Petrified Forest National Park, located in northeastern Arizona, is a captivating landscape where time stands still. The park is renowned for its stunning display of petrified wood, remnants of ancient trees that lived over 200 million years ago during the Late Triassic Epoch. These fossilized logs, composed mainly of quartz, create a colorful spectacle against the backdrop of the Painted Desert.The park's history extends far beyond its petrified wood. Over 13,000 years of human history are preserved within its boundaries, with over 800 archaeological and historic sites. Explore the ruins of Puerco Pueblo, built by Ancestral Puebloans between A.D. 1200 and 1400, and marvel at the petroglyphs at Newspaper Rock, offering glimpses into the lives of early inhabitants.Driving through the park on the 28-mile scenic road, visitors can experience the diverse landscapes, from the colorful badlands of the Painted Desert to the mesmerizing Blue Mesa with its otherworldly formations. Hiking trails wind through these landscapes, offering immersive encounters with the park's natural wonders.Petrified Forest National Park is more than just a collection of petrified wood; it's a journey through time, where geology, history, and culture converge to create a truly unforgettable experience.