Seeing the Sights - Petrified Forest National Park
My daughters and I recently visited another national park and I was so happy we had the opportunity to do so. It had been a minute since we had been to a national park and I’m always eager to get out and explore somewhere new.
We love a girls weekend and exploring new places!
Arizona is home to several national parks and monuments and am thrilled that we planned a trip to visit the Petrified Forest National Park. While this park seems to go under the radar, it is definitely worth visiting. The park is known for the petrified logs, but there is so much more to see. It is a simple park to explore and you can take in many of the views while you drive through the park. There are several trails and paths for your to use too.
Start planning your visit to the Petrified Forest National Park with the tips listed below.
Things to Know
Have a good navigator that guides you through the park!
The entrance fee to the park is $25 per vehicle, but if you plan on visiting multiple parks in a year, purchase an annual pass.
Upon your arrival, stop at the Visitor Center. This will give you an opportunity to ask the Park Ranger questions, do a little shopping and pick up materials for kids to complete the Junior Ranger Program.
Stop at the pullouts to take in the views at the overlooks.
Take in the views and make sure to capture a few photos. You may be inspired to recreate a scene or two when you get home on a canvas.
Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy during your day of adventure.
The Petrified Forest National Park is about 20 miles from Holbrook, 50 miles from Winslow and 113 miles from Flagstaff. Each of the those places have lodging. We stayed in Flagstaff and drove to the park and back in one day. Definitely doable!
The park has 2 entrances, north and south. I personally enjoyed starting at the south entrance and worked our way north. It doesn’t matter which way you start, but I recommend going through the entire park.
Refer to the park map that you’ll receive on entry to plan our your stops.
When planning your day trip, keep in mind that the park is open from 8 am - 5 pm.
Make sure to stop at my favorite spot, the Painted Desert during your visit!
The National Park Service has created itineraries based on the amount of time you have to spend in the Petrified Forest. We were able to get through the park during our visit, which is 28 miles on the main park roads.
Arizona has so much to offer and I’m thrilled that there are several more destinations to visit. Stay tuned because I’ll be sure to share all of my findings and recommendations with you!
