Top 31 things to do and attractions in Petrified Forest National Park

Inside the Petrified Forest - an ancient pueblo ruins and many petroglyphs along the canyon beside the pueblo. Well marked paved trails, and lots of interpretive signage.

A fascinating and underrated stop inside Petrified Forest National Park! Puerco Pueblo offers a glimpse into the past with the remnants of a 1000-year-old ancestral Puebloan village. The short paved loop trail is easy to walk, perfect even for kids or those looking for a quick, meaningful stop. Along the way, there are interpretive signs explaining how the ancient people lived, including their dwellings, daily routines, and belief systems. One highlight is the famous solstice marker petroglyph, which aligns with the sun during the summer solstice — so cool to see! You won’t need more than 20–30 minutes here, but it’s well worth it. I really enjoyed imagining what life was like here centuries ago. Definitely stop by if you’re exploring the park!

This will be on the map you receive when you enter the Petrified Wood National Park. You'll see a Pueblo looking building that has very informational and educational posters to read. There is a little trail to walk. No bathrooms are available here. Handicap ♿️ accessibility.

A cool piece of history with a Kiva, ruins, and petraglyphs. Short walk to each area. There was also an enclosed building with pictures and written information about the area. There were also clean, public restrooms.

This was an interesting place to visit if you are interested in history and local culture. The area was well maintained and good information was provided in each station, explaining what each spot was. It is part of the petrified forest area tour. It is worth stopping and checking it out, but I found it a bit underwhelming.

It is a remarkable sight. It blends the remains of ancient ruins with a beautiful courtyard and captivating petroglyphs. The informational signage found throughout the site provides valuable insights. As you explore, you can't help but appreciate the effortless accessibility to such historical remnants. This must-visit spot in the national park allows you to vividly imagine life during those ancient times. The petroglyphs themselves are awe-inspiring and definitely worth the short trek for an up-close view. While the entire Petrified Forest National Park is stunning, the Pueblo stands out as one of the most captivating attractions. Its combination of ancient ruins and accompanying petroglyphs creates an unforgettable experience.

Amazing to see what an ancient civilization has left us. Great place to stop when visiting Petrified Forest National Park, to admire the remains of the old pueblo and petroglyphs on big rocks.

Great stopping point in the planted desert / petrified forest. The in has art, history, maps, small Cafe, gift shop, and paths to beautiful vista's. It is very clean, well staffed and beautifully kept. Good as a cool place to stop to get out of the sun for a break. Plenty of parking, and photogenic views all the way around. Don't miss looking up in the gift shop. The ceiling is glass panels of native designs. Stunning.

Very unique inn built of petrified wood with a layer removed near the doors that shows the exposed petrified wood frame. Fascinating piece of history. Really enjoyed this stop and the view

Gorgeous views from overlook areas. Nice gift shop with viewing windows from inside. Ice cream counter for snacks. Ranger talks available. Nice park!

Loved how the inn is put together - from the wood beams to the decorative lamps and ceiling tiles. The views from the overlook are grand as well.

This is a nice historical stop from the 1930s. The national park passport station is inside along with a snack bar down stairs. Clean bathrooms and a few tables around back. There's a short trail outback that goes to a scenic overlook you don't want to miss.

Serve as visitor center right now, it's construction style and rock red color will deeply impress you, especially at sunset.

This was a very nice historical place, the gift shop is Native American made jewelry all done by the sweet elderly woman. I had a great conversation and bought some of the beautiful wares she was selling for a respectable price.

Easy parking even with a bigger rig. Highway in is well maintained but uneven and can’t safely be driven at higher speed, so allow for the time in and out of the park. Great sidewalks and railings. Views are unique, and expansive. While there the larger, better visible specimens are just off of the back side of the parking lot and you can walk down to those, get great photos and close enough to touch. Some of the bigger specimens are as you approach on the road in as well, they are easy to spot once you know what to look for. This is a worthwhile stop, off of old Route 66. Allow at least 2-3 hours to drive the majority of the park, as the Jasper Forest is only one of the many points of interest in the Painted Desert/Petrified Forest National Park

Mid-March 2025 - This was one of our favorite stops in the park. The amount of petrified wood in the Jasper Forest is staggering as are all of the "chips" that lay scattered about. While the view from the overlook is grand, we were especially delighted to follow the trail (off the right hand side of the overlook) down into the valley floor. This is a relatively easy walk/hike. Just be sure to have plenty of water, especially if your dog is walking with you. They wander around and take it all in. We were fortunate to do this stop on two different days and at different times of the day, which made different features stand out.

TL;DR: Jasper Forest Vista in Petrified Forest National Park offers otherworldly views, ample parking, and plenty of space to soak it all in. Jasper Forest Vista is an incredible stop in Petrified Forest National Park. The views are absolutely breathtaking, with a surreal landscape that feels like stepping into another world. There’s ample parking and plenty of room to explore or simply stand and take in the scenery. It’s a must-see stop if you’re visiting the park!

A great park to visit and you could catch a clear glimpse of the color and crystal structure. You can have a small hike around the site. If you are lucky, might catch a sight of American pronghorn at the forest too.

A great area for self-exploring. We spent a couple of hours in this amazing area. It was not crowded at all as this section of the park is lesser known.

Such an underrated national park. My jaw dropped when we first turned off of I-40 because you had no idea what kind of views were right there! Definitely well worth the stop and incredible to see overall! Lots of trails to hike and so much to see! You will be amazed at what all is sitting out in the desert, and will be surprised at its history. Such an amazing experience I will not forget!

Great view of petrified trees in the valley below and some logs protruding from the cliff face.

Sits on the south entrance of the park. Neat little museum with a shirt hiking trail behind it. I recommend starting on the south end and working your way to the north exit that way you can stop and have lunch at the visitor’s center on the north end of the park. Park is gated on both ends and they are only open between 8-5. They take security very seriously here so don’t expect the park to be open 24/7

This was our first stop in Petrified Forest National Park—and it was absolutely stunning! The museum is small but packed with fascinating displays of petrified wood and dinosaur fossils. The best part is the trail right outside, filled with colorful, gem-like petrified logs. It’s almost hard to believe they were once living trees over 200 million years ago. If you’re entering the park from the south entrance, definitely take your time here—it’s a perfect introduction to the wonders of the park!

A lot to learn here. Great pics, maps and displays. Everyone was helpful and the trails around the visitors center were awesome. We took an electric wheel chair on most of them. There were a few areas where I needed to help guide it just do to up and down grades and loose gravel but not bad at all. A couple has stairs but more than enough were useable by the wheel chair.

What an awesome side trip!! We were travelling across country, and this was in our path, so we stopped by. The petrified trees were pretty remarkable. The process of purification was well explained in the museum. As well as descriptions and exhibits on all the mammals and dinosaurs there in the area. We would like to have spent more time there, and will return on another cross country trip. The colors of agates from the trees were so strikingly beautiful.

Great indoor educational opportunity at the National Park. The small gift shop in the building sells different items than what is available at the neighboring store. The walk among the giant petrified trees behind the museum is a must if you’ve not visited before.

Great experience. Great for kids. Easy trails behind the building that wind through huge logs of petrified wood. We used a wheelchair and it was challenging but doable.

Great place to visit! I hope this fascist regime doesn't sell it off for cash to stay out of jail

The Agate Bridge is a quick but fascinating stop! You can’t walk across it, but seeing a massive petrified log suspended like a natural bridge is really something unique. There’s not much walking involved—just a short path from the parking area—but it’s well worth the few minutes to take it in and snap a photo. It’s a great addition to your Petrified Forest drive, especially if you’re hitting all the highlights. Simple, striking, and easy to access—definitely worth a quick stop!

Awesome sight right of the main park road.

Painted desert and petrified forest are visually beautiful. Take your time driving thru them. In some parts of the painted desert it look other worldly.

This whole place is amazing! 27 miles of the petrified forest. It's a must see for everyone. And it's very peaceful and the petrified legs are beautiful. Tons of great picture ops.

Such a cool piece of natural history to get to experience in person. Getting to see the ends where the veins of the tree show through the agate is amazing. Unfortunately some people thought it was a good idea to carve their names into some of the sandstone. I find it very disappointing that someone would do that in general and especially in a protected area like this.

Glad someone put supports under it, or it likely wouldn't be there today.

If you haven't seen the Painted Desert, you must! The colors are breathtaking! I was stunned at vista after vista during our trip through the park. These two pictures have only reds, but there are blues, greens, and yellows that make you wonder how so much diversity could have happened in this area. Do see it if you're ever in the area.

Crystal Forest: More than just a gift shop! At the gate to Petrified Forrest National Park lays 2 nearly identical gift shops at either side of the road. Owned by locals, it was a unique experience. We stayed here in August on a family cross country RV trip. I was in a 25ft RV, and this was the third major stop on my 17 day adventure. I booked a site here through Harvest Hosts (check it out, well worth the subscription fee). Unique to this host was 30 amp electric hookups, and with my generator working when it wanted to, this was a must for my stay. There is a charge for the power which they request paid in cash (or credit) at the gift shop. We did plan on a late check in (as our previous stop was at Carlsbad Caverns- but connected with staff to keep them updated and they were very helpful. The sites were nicely sized, all back ins. They are about 20 miles off from the closest major town. There are no food options nearby ( other than that fore mentioned town). We did a one night stay, and were able to access directly to the park gate when they opened. The shop has a variety of local items including carvings, blankets, hats, worked stone that is unique to the area. There are no water or sewage dumps on site, but, there's no place to stay closer to the park then this location. Staff were friendly, and at night, the skies were so clear you could see the outline of the Milky Way. Worth a stay or a visit if you're in the area. Note: the state highway that leads to this location... In parts is very rough, and if you are traveling in a larger vehicle- be advised to go under the speed limit. The roads are very dark at night with limited nearby assistance. It was rare we even saw another car on the road. Additionally, there are scorpions, tarantulas, and various snakes local to the area. Be aware of warm places and where you are stepping.

Nice place for a quick hike, lots of petrified wood and different colors and layers of rocks. Paved loop walkway. Has some height so you get some good views of the surrounding area.

Well worth the hike through the Crystal Forest checking out all the petrified trees on the ground and what is still being uncovered beneath.

The walk around this place is amazing and a must do in the park.

Visited in May 2024 and September 2025. Lots of crystallized and petrified wood in this area of the park. Highly Recommend stopping here to see it

This place was amazing! A girlfriend and I took a holiday to visit an old friend from H.S. @ her new place in Phoenix and say this place on the map at random. Thinking… why not check it out. It turns out the park closes around 7? And we arrived w about an hour & 1/2… man… we could have explored for at least 4-6hrs for sure. If you’re in the area it’s a must see!

Beautiful place to explore and experience. I strongly recommend the America, the beautiful pass if you plan on visiting any other national parks like the Grand Canyon just down the way also in Arizona.

First to find this I believe. 😃

Really cool rock(s) with hieroglyphics

It's an overlook, you have to use the binocular stand (forgot what it's called) to look at them, but it's pretty cool and the views overall are wonderful

There are a handful of places where I have been that magically transports you through time, and Newspaper Rock is one of them. It is almost the ones who created the petroglyphs just stepped away. I also learned that a petroglyph is an image carved, incised or scratched into stone. A pictograph is a painting on stone, using natural pigments. Utah has both of these. Definitely worth a visit to see these detailed historical artwork left so many years ago. Please do not add your own artwork, graffiti is a constant threat to this monument!

I went to this place when I was 11 years old. I remember being in awe of what I was looking at...and learning that they're thousands of years old, and their creators are unknown. You wonder what all those petroglyphs meant to who created them..if you're in the Petrified forest area..it's worth the stop.

they have telescopes

Bring your binocular.

This is the coolest place. I came with my parents when I was a kid and have finally made it back. I brought my own kids back and my mom. The park is a driving tour. You start at the visitor entrance with a map. The road passes by all the different areas. You can choose which or all to stop at. I really enjoyed the giant petrified logs. I was able to walk up and touch them. The colors are gorgeous. Some of the spots are great Lookout points over the valley. It takes about an hour to drive through. Maybe longer depending on how long you stay at each spot. When you reach the end you will have to turn and go back to the entrance or you can leave the southern exit. We were traveling to the south anyway and it worked out perfectly. Take lots of water with you and pack a lunch. It was very hot when we visited. Be prepared. There are no stores. Don't take any rocks. There's a sign warning of being searched and there are plenty of rocks outside the park.

Seems like Painted Desert VC needs a remodel. Plenty of building sq ft available. Very small considering all the buildings within the complex. The Rainbow VC at the south end of the park is nicer and more updated facility.

Small, but free. There was another building with a movie that was kind of boring. It was all about made up Science stuff saying how old everything is...blah, blah, blah.

Not as nice as the other national parks. We bought 2 stickers, didn’t meed receipt, went outside and decided we didn’t want the stickers, walked back in and cashier said we needed receipt. Dumb customer service move.

I purchased some beautiful survivors, Great advice, maps, and brochures Rangers were more than helpful, they were courteous, friendly and jovial. I even got a military discount. Sweet. A very good all in one place to stop and shop and refresh before your desert trek.

Plan on several hours if you hike. Drive though took about an hour but we mainly drove though as was getting late. Very impressive and for the price I would recommend.

I liked the petrified forest because it lead to the painted desert and the crystallized forest. Cool drive along the desert as well. The painted desert was an awesome view. We went in January. Kinda was hoping to see crazy bright colors in that spot. So not sure if there would be a better season to visit it in to see it a bit more vibrant?? But either way, the views cool and more views down the way with different colors are ther for you to enjoy as well

Majestic view and it’s a gorgeous Mesa. Easy to walk and hike too. Enjoy this walk and ends the day with the glimpse of sunset. Visitor has to be in the car before 6:30pm and ranger will be patrolling to ensure visitor is ready to leave for the day.

We stopped at one of the first pull outs on the way to the trailhead. The scattering of petrified wood was a delight to see and to ponder if there were more specimens buried down under our feel. The trail down is accessible but steep in some places. Bring water. The formations are delightful.

My favorite hike in the Petrified Forest Park. It’s a quick 1-mile that starts as an out/back and turns to a loop. There’s some minor elevation but the trail is paved and easy to navigate. The scenery is absolutely gorgeous. There’s no trail cover so bring water / wear sunscreen.

Visited in May 2024. This was my favorite areas inside the park. The rock formations remind me of those in Badlands National Park in South Dakota. This is the first area in Petrified Forest that you'll see Petrified wood. The views were beyond spectacular in this section. Highly recommend!!

Beautiful colorful mountains, easy trail and great views.

Nice little loop and only 110 foot vertical difference from trailhead to base loop which is black topped the whole way

Top! Simply top! This is the highlight of the Petrified Forest National Park! Just park your car at the trailhead (be careful, available spaces are limited) and start your walk in the middle of the Blue Mesa. The trip takes about 20-30 minutes and is fairly easy and accessible, since all the trail is made of asphalt (maybe not the best choice in a natural park...): it will take you through many marvelous views that you will never forget. We visited in August 2022 and on that morning we were completely alone: no other person in sight for miles and miles. The sound of silence, the colors, the views and the light were truly amazing! It felt like being on an other planet! Great pieces of petrified wood as well, scattered over the trail. One of the best places I have seen in the US!

This was my first stop coming this national park! Starting from the south entrance and planned/ did all of the 20 stops. Coming here, I knew this park would be cool but it was so much more than that, it blew my mind. Seeing how these old logs turned into stone and the colors and feel and everything about them was mind blowing. I couldn’t believe it! I was amazed with every piece around. As you get deeper into the park I feel you find more and more cooler ones. This trail is pretty short but if you look around there is so much to see. A lot of people were just walking through it normal and barely looking and missing so much good stuff. Seeing pictures of this little walk I didn’t think much of it but it was so amazing. There’s some cool colored hills in the back too! There’s plenty of parking and this one is right when you get into the South Gate. There’s an amazing gift shop with lots of cool stuff to buy as well. Drinks if you need them too. There’s also a museum right by the start of this trail that was pretty neat as well. It’s about a mile or less to hike this one. There’s also another trail by the gift shop as well. Enjoy

Visited in May 2024. Highly recommend stopping and walking the trail to appreciate the beautiful petrified trees in this area of the park.

Easy access trail located right by the museum/visitors center. Such a unique trail system that allows you to get the best views of petrified wood of various sizes throughout the park. The trail itself is rather easy, both children and adults trekked through with ease. Such a beautiful park and great views from the trail.

Great place to start your visit to the petrified forest. This trail is essentially a figure 8 that goes around several different petrified logs some quite big. It is a bit surreal to see them just laying there in the ground. Easy trail and good photo opportunities.

Awesome super nice places to explore all day

Best look at logs, giant ones. Lots of other good viewing locations but this one is the one to see especially if time is a consideration. Nice museum and gift shop to start from with interesting exhibits and washrooms. Looks like they are making more of the trail wheelchair accessible. Nice stop!

Great intro path/trail to petrified national park. Plenty of logs and some badlands views. Definitely worth 30 minutes or so of your time.

Loved this hike/walk. Beautiful surroundings!!

Historic house built with petrified wood pieces. The trail from the Giant Logs parking lot is about 1 mile and will take you 20/25 minutes each way. Worth it if you have some extra time to spend in the park before leaving. In summer be careful for the high temperatures and bring water with you!

Pretty neat hike to an old house made out of Petrified Wood! I can't believe they use to live in places like this but they did. The trail from the parking lot to the house is well done. Portion of it was the old road that you could drive to but now a walking path. The rest is semi asphalt and hard packed dirt/gravel and easy to walk as well. There are many other Petrified Trees laying around in the area for you to see also. Some pretty big ones and lots of pieces throughout the walk. Also look for the animal dwellings! Not sure what they are but pretty cool to see once you start to notice them. Have a wonderful time and stay cool and hydrated! It can get quite warm in a hurry!

We did this hike combined this hike with the long logs hike. Overall the hike was nice. The agate house was cool to see though not the only reason to do the hike (thus the four star review).

Round hike to agate house is 2 miles. Throughout the hike thousands of petrified tree lies on both side of the trail. It is easy hike. The house is historical. Beautiful.

The path is a short walk across the bridge from the visitor center parking lot in the south. Didn't make it all the way back to the Agate House, but the loops before you get there were a landscape littered with an abundance of undisturbed petrified logs, which the paths wind over and and around. This was our first up-close view.

Beautiful high desert hike, but fairly easy. Spectacular views and the place is littered with huge chunks of petrified wood. The reconstructed house is lovely.

Very weird landscape. But again, it's alright. Not a great mind blowing sight.

Visited in May 2024. Unique landscapes in this area of the park.

These hills are amazing! The colors and the way they’re shaped!

Amazing painted rocks! The Tepees are the gateway to even more spectacular views that will come next. Just pull out on the side of the road and admire this spectacular nature!

Very beautiful, must stop and take a photo

The teepees in Petrified Forest NP are really cool.

The Tepees offer a surreal hiking backdrop with cone-shaped, striped hills rising from the desert floor. Trails nearby let you wander close to these formations, where colors shift with the light, making it a must for hikers seeking otherworldly scenery.

Awesome to see, especially since it wasn't busy.

As huge fans of Cars, this was one of the most exciting stops for us in Petrified Forest National Park! Seeing the old Route 66 line with the rusted-out vintage car instantly reminded us of Radiator Springs — it felt like we were stepping into the movie. There’s not much left of the actual road, but the vibe is all there: the row of historic telephone poles, the dry open landscape, and that classic American road trip feeling. We went a little crazy taking photos from every angle — totally worth it! It’s a quick stop, but for Cars lovers or Route 66 enthusiasts, it’s pure joy. You can almost hear Lightning McQueen saying, “Ka-chow!” 🚗

Cool stop highlighting former Route 66 and where it cut through the lands of Petrified Forest Commemorated by the body shell of Studybaker vehicle, it brings back nostalgic memories of a different time.

Visited in May 2024 and September 2025. A unique stop in the park that gives it character and nostalgia.

Standing next to this car, I kept expecting Fozzie bear and Kermit the frog to jump out. Of course, the Studebaker in the great Muppet movie was 19 years older than this one. So cool to stand next to this car and imagine all of the miles it’s run.

Interesting landmark. Here is were the original alignment of Route 66 crossed the Petrified Forest National Park. Unfortunately this section is not drivable anymore.

This old 1932 Studebaker reminds visitors that Route 66 was crossed the park, roughly where the telephone poles run. Take a moment to imagine how hard the journey must have been across the desert in the 1930s.

Our visit to the Painted Desert was nothing short of magical—an unforgettable way to spend the day as a family. From the moment we entered the park, we were blown away by the vibrant colors, dramatic landscapes, and peaceful atmosphere that seemed to stretch endlessly in every direction. Every overlook offered a new view, a new photo op, and a new “wow” moment. What made it even more special was how engaging and active the day was. Between the scenic drive, short trails, ancient ruins, and hands-on history at places like the Petrified Forest and Newspaper Rock, there was something for everyone. We climbed ladders at Alcove House, explored cliff dwellings, sampled trail loops, and even enjoyed ice cream with a view—all while making real memories together. The Painted Desert isn’t just a place to look at—it’s a place to experience. If you’re looking for a mix of natural beauty, cultural history, and family adventure, this national park is a must. We’ll be talking about this day for years to come.

We had stopped in here several years ago and enjoyed going through the park so while visiting AZ we had to go back and see this beautiful park. There are so many amazing views and colors throughout the park. We took our time and stopped at nearly all the lookout points and we did a few of the hikes as well. There is so much to see here. I highly recommend checking out this beautiful park. If you have a 4th grader you can get in for free with their national park pass.

I saw the Grand Canyon on a helicopter tour, the Painted Desert was part of it. The tour was the most memorable experience I have ever had. Enjoy

Super big park with two visitor centers. One at each entrance. Great for a few hours or all day. We took our two dogs and were able to walk on the trails with them. The restrooms at the visitor centers were very clean. There's some really beautiful stuff there to see and very interesting history.

I recently had the pleasure of visiting the awe-inspiring Painted Desert in Arizona, and words simply cannot do justice to the sheer beauty and unique landscape that I encountered. This remarkable natural wonder left an indelible mark on my soul, and I'm already eagerly planning my next visit. From the moment I set foot in the desert, I was captivated by the distinctive hues that painted the horizon. The vibrant reds, oranges, and purples of the sandstone formations stood out against the clear blue sky, creating a visual symphony that seemed almost otherworldly. It felt as if I had stepped into a living painting where every brushstroke had been carefully placed by a masterful artist. Exploring the trails and viewpoints in the Painted Desert was an adventure like no other. Each turn revealed a new panorama that left me in awe. The petrified wood scattered across the desert added an ancient touch, reminding me of the rich history that lies beneath this magnificent land. As I strolled along the hiking trails, the tranquility and serenity of the desert embraced me. The silence was broken only by the gentle whispers of the wind and occasional bird songs, creating a calming atmosphere that allowed me to truly connect with nature. I found myself lost in contemplation as I sat on the rocks, admiring an unobstructed view of the vast desert stretching as far as the eye could see. The visitor center also proved to be an excellent resource during my visit. The knowledgeable staff provided valuable information on the geological formations, wildlife, and history of the area, enriching my understanding and appreciation of the Painted Desert. I highly recommend taking the time to speak with them and learn more about this remarkable place. The Painted Desert is a true gem, deserving of every photographer's lens and every adventurer's exploration. It's a place where nature's brushstrokes have created a breathtaking masterpiece. Whether you're an avid hiker, a curious traveler, or simply someone seeking solace amidst nature's wonders, the Painted Desert in Arizona should be high on your list of must-visit destinations. Prepare to be mesmerized, inspired, and left longing for more – the Painted Desert will undoubtedly leave an everlasting impression on your heart and soul.

We drove the whole park and stopped at every point and hiked the trails. It’s a very easy day trip full of amazing views and cool natural history. Reading the posted facts at most of the stopping points was fascinating. Learning how trees turned to colorful stone was so cool! Worth the trip!

It was so cool! very beautiful, I loved being able to take the trails down to the badlands. The silence in the desert was wonderful. The trails can be steep and slippery so be careful! It really is like 2 parks in 1, cuz there's all the Petrified Forest history, and then there's the painted mesa! Also, it is really cool to learn about the native American history.

It's $25.00 well spent! Before you head out on the ride, go to the visitor center. It's beautiful and underrated... With things to do nearby, like the meteor crater, so worth a fun weekend adventure

Very beautiful place, views were amazing. We came at a very windy day, but were still able to walk around and take in the views. This is only one of I think 11 different areas located within the park, which include hiking trails, museums, viewpoints, and much more. In the main office, there is a small café and gift shop. The food was sub-par but still good nonetheless. And I definitely recommend taking a look around the gift shop. The petrified wood itself was very interesting and crazy to look at. I definitely recommend if you are looking for road trip stops or just something to do.

Amazing views! When we first got to the petrified forest, we were thinking, "Is this all?" So we proceeded from the south entrance to the north, and everything was an easy stop.

Short hike with nice views of the painted desert. It's an out and back. Once you get on the trail, the view doesn't really change so you could turn back whenever you want. It's not a paved trail. That kept me from calling it "easy". But calling it "moderate" feels like a stretch.

Beautiful views, easy walk about one mile in and out. Plenty of viewpoints to enjoy the scenery.

A five star experience. We visited this magical place during the golden hour. It was just amazingly colorful and absolutely spectacular.

The Painted Desert and Petrified Forest are in the same park. You must go and see this. You will Remeber it forever. This with Gooseneck park is a must. Then go to Sedona and see the beautiful red mountains and the Christ church up in the red hills.

Kachina Point offers one of the most jaw-dropping views in the entire park—a wide, uninterrupted panorama of the Painted Desert that truly showcases the area’s vivid colors and layered geology. While it’s located near the Painted Desert Inn, it deserves its own moment—quieter, more expansive, and absolutely stunning in the late afternoon light. There’s not much walking required, which makes it an ideal stop for a quick scenic break, photo opportunity, or peaceful moment to take it all in. You feel like you’re standing at the edge of something timeless and vast. If you’re doing the park drive, make sure not to skip this spot—it’s unforgettable.

Beautiful overlook of the Painted Desert! There's a nearby trail that is a wilderness access trail (Petrified Forest National Wilderness Area Access Trail - photos are from this trail), and it offers a way to immerse yourself in the landscape below Kachina Point/Painted Desert Inn and see some petrified wood. Note that it is not one of the "developed trails" and there are some switchbacks. The parking lot next to the Painted Desert Inn has an informational sign about this trail. However if you just want something easy, you can walk out to Kachina Point. It's absolutely beautiful and worth the stop!

I highly recommend the park. I didn’t realise how big and beautiful it is. Well worth a detour for us. This was one of our favourite stops.

Top view of the famous Painted Desert!

An unexpected treasure on our travels. Similar to the Badlands in South Dakota but with much more color.

This is a good point to view the painted desert.

Stunning panoramic views of the Painted Desert.

This trail was the highlight of our visit to the park! It's not as popular as some of the other trails, probably due to the fact that parts of it can be tricky, with loose gravel and steep and narrow sections, (be sure to wear good hiking shoes!) but it was so beautiful and well worth it! We only saw a couple of other people the whole time we were hiking, and that solitude made the whole experience even more incredible. Pro tip: talk to a park ranger! I was glad that I spoke to the ranger at the visitor center before I set out, because she advised me that the route I had planned, starting from Blue Mesa, would be a mistake because it's difficult to find the Blue Forest Trail from there since it isn't marked and really doesn't even look like a trail! Her advice to start from the Teepees made it so much easier to find the trail, plus she gave me an illustrated trail guide that pointed out landmarks along the way.

If you have a shuttle its nice to be dropped off at Blue Mesa loop and have them meet you at the turnoff near the teepees for blue forest. Its easier hiking down but you can do an out and back. The blue mesa trail map does not show this trail. Its at the western end of the loop just as you are turning south, you will see a trail going up a canyon to the northwest. A little steep getting above blue mesa loop area then its a nice 1.2 mile hike along the ridges on an easy to follow trail. Near the middle as you get into the flatter blue rock section, the trail is the brown gravel. The last section looks like a big flat toad leading you back to the park road.

You must, must, must do this trail. Look up the route on all trails. I actually started from the main blue Mesa loop trailhead and then incorporated the vast majority of this hike from that side turning it into a loop. This was by far the highlight of my trip to the park and we literally saw 6 other people on the trail. Absolutely incredible.

We hiked part of this trail, and it was unbelievable. Looks like something is out of this world. Liked it a lot better than Crystal Park trail. Very windy.

Our favorite of the hikes we did in the Park and one-of-a-kind, otherworldly views. However, I would recommend following a map (such as AllTrails) closely...there are lots of water-made and man-made trails that can easily misdirect you and lead you to dead ends if you don't double check the map frequently.

A highlight hike to the national park! Beautiful colors! We went off season and felt like we were the only ones there. Stunning scenery!

Cool hike among mounds of what seems to be blown concrete with shards or Petrified woods that literally looks like someone made a mess while chopping trees. Felt otherworldly. Note poss not safe if raining anywhere up stream as there is no where to go if flash floods hits

While visiting a friend in Phoenix, we went out for a day trip to hike. This place is magical! I really had no idea what to expect and decided to simply go w/ the flow. The waterfall was beautiful. The terrain might be a bit rough for some though. Climbing over rocks that can be slippery and possibly getting wet. But it was definitely worth the adventure.

Well, OK it is a desert. That doesn't mean 0 precipitation, just not a lot... I made it there to a couple of inches of unexpected rains that turned into snow. At which point you can't see much but at least I feel lucky to get a rare sight!

The painted desert was perfect to see from this point. Thought it'd be more vibrant in color but still was a pretty awesome view

This is on the northern loop once you enter the park. It's $25 for a car to enter and the road loops down from the Painted Desert to the other side of the interstate where you drive through the Petrified Forest. This is a BIG park, so allow enough time. It is a 30+ minute drive from the entrance to some of the sights.

Absolutely amazing. Wish we had had more time to explore and take in the true beauty. Must go back for sure.

Absolutely stunning. It's unfortunate that it's so costly to enter a national park. $25 per car, but the pass is for 7 days. Does me no good since we're passing through but I'm sure it benefits some. It's a must see of you're traveling through Arizona on interstate 40.

So pretty! Crazy to see how gorgeous it is here! You can’t see any of this from the interstate! Well worth the stop!

Painted Dessert / Petrified Forest Park is with the visit

If you entered from the north entrance of Petrified Forest National Park, this will be your first introduction to the (many) stunning views in the park. This is a small portion of the vast Painted Desert. Great quick pull-off for some photos!

Beautiful in its own rugged way. After taking in the view from the parking area, we took the trail at the one end, to get out into the landscape.

I swung in on a spur decision just because I had visited the Petrified Forest National Park a few weeks ago but from a different entrance point. I didn't have a lot of time to wander around today, but I came to the first stopping point which was this. It was a beautifully open expanse of multiple colours of beautiful earth. I am sorry to say that I don't know where I entered in from when we were there a few weeks ago, but I'm including some photos of that side as well. If someone were to drive from one side to the other than I am sure you would see both of the entrances that I saw.

Beautiful look out!

Visited in May 2024. This is the first viewpoint after the north entrance to the park, and the panoramic views are Spectacular. Returned in September 2025

Beautiful views and photo spots of the wonder of what nature can do. A with all the stops there is a never ending amount of beauty eject your eyes my look.

Wonderful view and so peaceful place. You can just sit, feel the wind and enjoy the silence.

The Petrified Forest was an incredible experience! The views are absolutely stunning, from the colorful Painted Desert to the ancient petrified wood scattered throughout the park. It's like stepping into a different world. The park is well maintained, with plenty of scenic overlooks, short and long hikes, and informative signs that make the visit both fun and educational. We loved how easy it was to explore at our own pace, and the visitor centers had great displays and helpful staff. Whether you're into geology, history, or just amazing landscapes, this is a must-see stop. Don’t skip the Blue Mesa Trail—truly unforgettable!

I don't know if we were unlucky, but we went to the visitor center on 03/29/25 at 10am where we faced a rude and unhelpful employee who was standing on the left side of the counter. She didn't give us any information and said that if we wanted to know anything, we should go straight to the gate. Since we were just passing through we decided not to go ahead. Furthermore, the day was cloudy and the colors of the desert don't stand out as much.

Finally made it to the Petrified Forest in memory of my Mom that always wanted to visit but never got the chance. It was more than I expected. Loved the petroglyphs, the views, the colors, everything! #mysteryladystravelingfeet #naturalparks #NaturalBeauty #Arizona #petrifiedforest

Great views and not crowded on a Saturday afternoon. Pair this with a visit to the meteor crater. Lots of viewpoints, easy parking at each stop, good souvenirs.

Some great photos and cool pictures. Some unique features other parks do not have in the park. .

Somewhere in the middle of Arizona, where the land looks like it gave up on rain a million years ago, lies a forest made of stone. Every tree fell, turned to quartz, and now glows under the sun like it’s still trying to remember what it felt like to be alive. They call it the Petrified Forest, but it’s more like a graveyard for time. The place is huge. You drive for miles through badlands painted in pink and purple and orange, like a drunk god went wild with a brush. Stop at Blue Mesa. Hike the loop and you’ll swear the hills are breathing. Then go find Crystal Forest and look close. The logs aren’t logs anymore but gemstones pretending to be wood. Don’t pocket any unless you like ghosts. Locals say people who steal rocks from here end up mailing them back, begging forgiveness. Bad luck follows you home. Here’s something most people miss. The park has a stretch of old Route 66 running right through it. You can still see the rusted remains of a Studebaker sitting by the old line. It’s a quiet kind of magic, a fossil of freedom parked in a fossilized forest. Best time to go is early morning or near sunset when the whole desert turns into fire. Bring water, a hat, and a sense of humor about eternity. Out there, under that endless sky, it’s hard not to feel small. But it’s a good kind of small. The kind that reminds you the world was beautiful long before we showed up and will be beautiful long after we’re gone.

It’s an amazing park. At least for those who travel between Albuquerque and Flagstaff, should stop there and take a tour to see about how the forest disappeared and the giant trees have become petrified.

Another great point in the national park for viewing the Painted Desert. Beautiful and an easy walk. The second pullout from the north entrance. Be sure to check out Kachina Point as well.

Tawa Point is named after Tawa, the Hopi Sun Spirit, and is located just inside the park's northern entrance. From Tawa Point, visitors can see the colorful layers of sedimentary rock that make up the Painted Desert. The colors range from red to orange to yellow, and the landscape is dotted with buttes and mesas. The view is especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset, when the colors are at their most vibrant. In addition to its stunning views, Tawa Point is also a great place to learn about the history of the Painted Desert. There are several interpretive exhibits at the overlook that provide information about the geology, ecology, and Native American cultures of the area.

Short 1 mile hike out and back on the rim - great views !

Tawa Point is an overlook for the colorful landscape of the Painted Desert. The point is located at the end of a 300' (91 m) paved trail. There is an interpretive sign here that provides more information about the area. There are no facilities here or at the parking area so plan accordingly.

Great expansive views

Tawa point

Viewpoint of the hills and the grassland

A nice trail with nice views. It's paved almost all the way so very easy to walk, no need for hiking boots sneakers are enough. Parking at the visitor center. A good chance to stretch your legs since there are few marked trails in the park.

Beautiful place and lots of petrified very long logs. I really think the distance they listed is quite a bit longer. We may not have walked all the way out if we had known but it was worth it, we were just a little short on time.

Great trail, lots of amazing views of petrified wood

Great easy trail.

Nice trail.

(Translated by Google) Long Logs Trail is an easy walk during which we find very beautiful and imposing trunks. There are definitely fewer people around the Visitor Center. (Original) Long Logs Trail est une ballade facile durant laquelle on trouve de très beaux et imposants troncs. Il y a nettement mois de monde qu'aux alentours du Visitor Center.

It was about 20 minutes in from the checkpoint. Take a right and it ended with a parking lot, which led to a walkway where two viewing scopes are waiting. The view is of some boulders along a cliff along a meadow and a dried out river bed. Not much to look at. Seeing on the gallery guide where the glifics were, was the only reason we found them which are pretty cool. Jus wish we could see them better. Awesome to think the natives before, made a life there at on point.

This place is absolutely fascinating! At first glance, it looks like a few ordinary rocks, but a closer look reveals hundreds of ancient petroglyphs—handprints, animals, symbols—like a giant prehistoric “code book” carved into stone. Even though the viewing area is set at a distance, the carvings are still clearly visible and incredibly powerful. Standing there, you really feel like you’re witnessing messages from thousands of years ago. A must-see stop in the park!

So glad this place has good security. These petroglyphs are in great shape and don’t show signs of modern vandalism. The site sits a short drive down from the main park road and there is an observation overlook a few yards from the parking area. I recommend bringing your own binoculars to see them all. Be sure to look around the canyon as there are lots around.

With all the beauty of the landscape, the fascinating size an number of petrified wood deposits the arid piles of enormous pieces of rubble this remote location holds (in my opinion) the most amazing exibit in the park, if not the state. Ancient hand carved Petroglyphs, by the hundreds, embedded symbols in the rocks. Who were they that created these? Did they live here or nearby? What became of them? The mystery is just as fascinating as the symbols them selves. Of all the locations in the park do not miss this one.

Visited in May 2024. Spectacular panoramic views and unique cliff writings and drawings in the rocks.

A shorter stop compared to some in the park, but amazing to see all of the petroglyphs in one place. Plenty of parking. A short walk out to the observation area.

Super cool quick stop in Petrified Forest National Park. Free binoculars at site to allow close up visuals of lots of petroglyphs!

It's a Butte and it's Martha's. In the midst of a badlands.