Petrified Forest

Just 26 miles east of Holbrook, Arizona, Petrified Forest National Park is a geologic wonderland showcasing one of the world’s largest collections of brilliantly colored petrified wood, dating back 225 million years to the Late Triassic period. Spanning 346 square miles across Navajo and Apache counties, the park features vibrant badlands, ancient fossils, and the iconic Painted Desert, with its ever-changing hues of red, orange, and purple. A must-visit for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and Route 66 travelers, the park is easily accessible via Interstate 40 (exit 311) or U.S. Route 180.

Highlights:

• Scenic Drive: Explore the 28-mile Park Road, connecting the Painted Desert Visitor Center (north) and Rainbow Forest Museum (south), with pullouts for stunning vistas, petroglyphs, and archaeological sites like Puerco Pueblo and Agate House.

• Trails: Enjoy short, accessible hikes like the Crystal Forest (0.75-mile loop) for colorful petrified logs, the Long Logs (1.6-mile loop) for ancient log jams, or the Blue Mesa (1-mile loop) through vibrant badlands.

• Route 66 Nostalgia: Visit the 1932 Studebaker marker, tracing the historic Route 66 alignment through the park.

• Pet-Friendly: Pets are welcome on trails and outdoor areas (except buildings), but bring water and protect paws from hot, rocky surfaces.

Visitor Information:

• Hours: Open daily, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. MST (6:00 p.m. in summer). Arizona does not observe Daylight Savings.

• Contact: 928-524-6228 or visit www.nps.gov/pefo.

• Tips: Stay on trails to preserve the landscape, pack water, and note that removing petrified wood is strictly prohibited to protect this natural treasure.

Easily reachable from Holbrook, the park offers a perfect day trip to explore prehistoric fossils, colorful landscapes, and cultural history. Stop by the Painted Desert Inn, a restored Route 66 landmark, for exhibits and views. Whether hiking, photographing, or soaking in the surreal scenery, Petrified Forest National Park is a highlight of any Holbrook adventure.