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Pintado Point: Panoramic Views of the Painted Desert

Experience the Painted Desert's grandeur from Pintado Point, the highest overlook in Petrified Forest National Park, offering 360° views and ancient volcanic formations.

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Pintado Point, the highest overlook in the Painted Desert area of Petrified Forest National Park, offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the colorful badlands stretching over 100 miles. This vista point provides a stunning perspective of the park's unique geological formations and ancient volcanic activity.

A brief summary to Pintado Point

  • Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona, 86028, US

Local tips

  • Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited facilities within the park.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain and be prepared for varying weather conditions.
  • Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic colors in the Painted Desert.
  • Check the park's website for alerts and updates on trail conditions before your visit.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From the Painted Desert Visitor Center, head south on the main park road (Petrified Forest Road) for approximately 5 miles. Pintado Point will be on your left, with a small parking area providing access to the viewpoint. The park road is well-maintained and accessible to most vehicles. Entrance to the park is $25 per vehicle, valid for seven days.

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Discover more about Pintado Point

Pintado Point, aptly named from the Spanish word for 'painted,' is the premier viewpoint within Petrified Forest National Park for experiencing the vastness and beauty of the Painted Desert. Situated at the highest elevation among the Painted Desert overlooks, it provides visitors with unparalleled panoramic vistas. From this vantage point, the multi-hued badlands unfold in every direction, showcasing a stunning array of colors that change with the light throughout the day. The point offers views of ancient volcanic features, including a maar vent, a flat-bottomed, roughly circular volcanic crater formed by explosive activity millions of years ago. The erosion of the Bidahochi Formation has exposed these unique geological formations, offering a glimpse into the region's dynamic past. In the distance, you can spot landmarks such as Turkey Track Butte, the San Francisco Peaks, and the Hopi Buttes, further enriching the scenic tapestry. Pintado Point is easily accessible from the main park road and features interpretive displays that help visitors understand the geological processes that shaped this remarkable landscape. The short, well-maintained walking path from the parking area to the viewpoint makes it accessible for most visitors. Remember to bring water, wear comfortable shoes, and protect yourself from the elements, as the area is exposed and can experience extreme temperatures.

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