Petrified Forest National Park South Trailhead
Explore a prehistoric wonderland of fossilized trees and diverse wildlife on the 11-mile Petrified Forest Loop Trail.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Petrified Forest National Park South Trailhead
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a prehistoric wonderland of fossilized trees and diverse wildlife on the 11-mile Petrified Forest Loop Trail.
"An 11-mile loop with incredible scenery and tons of wildlife; a must-do for seasoned hikers."
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Essential for the 11-mile loop and navigating off-trail for wildlife.
💧 Hydration is Crucial
Carry plenty of water; the trail has no shade and can be strenuous in heat.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Petrified Forest Loop Trail
South Trailhead
An 11-mile trek through a prehistoric wonderland of fossilized trees and abundant wildlife.
Ancient Petrified Wood
Throughout the park
Witness entire tree trunks, fossilized over 200 million years, standing in defiance of time.
Abundant Wildlife Sightings
On and around trails
Encounter wild horses, bison, snakes, toads, and various birds in their natural habitat.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Sun and Wildlife
Trail Navigation & Time
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Essential for the 11-mile loop and navigating off-trail for wildlife.
💧 Hydration is Crucial
Carry plenty of water; the trail has no shade and can be strenuous in heat.
☀️ Sun Protection Essential
Hats and sun-protective clothing are a must for this exposed trail.
🦌 Give Wildlife Space
Allow extra time to go around bison and horses; never approach them.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Essential for the 11-mile loop and navigating off-trail for wildlife.
💧 Hydration is Crucial
Carry plenty of water; the trail has no shade and can be strenuous in heat.
☀️ Sun Protection Essential
Hats and sun-protective clothing are a must for this exposed trail.
🦌 Give Wildlife Space
Allow extra time to go around bison and horses; never approach them.
🕰️ Allow Ample Time
The 11-mile loop can take over 8 hours with wildlife detours.
📱 Download Offline Maps
Cell service can be spotty; ensure you have navigation ready.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the sheer abundance and beauty of the petrified wood, describing it as a prehistoric wonderland. The opportunity to see wildlife like bison and wild horses adds an exciting element, though navigating around them can extend hike times. The lack of shade and the trail's length are noted challenges, making preparation crucial.
"I did the 11 mile loop and was surprised how good it was. So much incredible scenery, and tons of wildlife.
Be prepared to go far off trail at times to get around animals; give yourself extra time and wear the appropriate footwear + tick repellent. There were 5 different times I had to go off trail to get around bison and horses. At one point, I had to go several hundred yards off trail to get around a herd of 100+ bison."
Travis Spicuzza
"We loved the Petrified Forest Loop Trail and recommend the trail for any seasoned hiker that has the right equipment, including good boots, hats, appropriate sun protective clothing, snacks, and plenty of water. (Read and follow the trail safety instructions!).
We did the Petrified Forest Loop Trail, starting out a little after 9 am. With a few detours, we estimated we did over 11 total miles on the hike. We spent over 8 hours on the trail, but also made lots of stops. Our detours were to circumnavigate herds of bison who liked to hang out on the trails.
Normally, we would rate the hike as easy. But the length and absence of any shade made the trek difficult.
We loved seeing all of the petrified wood, the wildlife, and also the seclusion of the Loop trail. The only time we saw other people was when we left at the end of the day."
Dawn J
"Well worth the short hike in. My expectations was to see a few pieces of petrified wood, when we first saw the area I was surprised to see so many petrified tree stumps. It was very neat to see. Plus a couple wild horses keeping an eye on us on our way out. Definitely recommend this hike, might be a tough hike in temperature over 90."
ParkGuy53
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access to the South Trailhead can be tricky, with some visitors reporting private property signs. Always follow official park maps and guidance. Parking is usually plentiful, especially if you arrive early.
Currently, there is no public transportation directly serving the Petrified Forest National Park South Trailhead. A personal vehicle is the most practical way to reach this remote location.
Roads can be winding and sometimes confusing, with some users reporting issues with Google Maps routing. Be prepared for potentially rougher terrain depending on the specific access route.
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Petrified Forest National Park. It's advisable to check the official National Park Service website for current pricing and pass options.
Yes, the South Trailhead is accessible from nearby towns, but it requires a dedicated drive. Plan your trip to allow sufficient travel time to and from your accommodation.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While advance ticket purchase isn't always mandatory, it's recommended to check the official park website for any specific entry requirements or timed entry systems that might be in place.
The park generally has long operating hours, but it's best to confirm the specific hours for the South Trailhead on the National Park Service website, as they can vary seasonally.
Visiting in the early morning or late afternoon can offer more comfortable temperatures and better lighting for photography, avoiding the peak heat of midday.
Standard park rules apply. Avoid bringing in prohibited items, and remember that collecting petrified wood is strictly forbidden.
Yes, if you have an America the Beautiful Pass or other valid National Parks Pass, it can typically be used for entry into Petrified Forest National Park.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
It's an approximately 11-mile loop trail offering stunning views of petrified wood and opportunities for wildlife sightings. Be prepared for a long hike with no shade.
Most visitors spend over 8 hours on the trail, especially if they make detours for wildlife viewing or photography.
You might encounter wild horses, bison, snakes, toads, and various bird species. Always maintain a safe distance and never feed the animals.
While the trail itself isn't technically difficult, its length and lack of shade can make it challenging. Beginners should be well-prepared with water and sun protection.
Absolutely not. Collecting petrified wood or any other natural items from the park is strictly prohibited and carries penalties.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for capturing the colors and textures of the petrified wood and the surrounding landscape.
The entire Petrified Forest Loop Trail provides numerous photo opportunities. Look for unique formations of petrified wood and any wildlife you encounter.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the landscape, while a telephoto lens is useful for wildlife photography. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions.
Drone usage is generally restricted in National Parks. Check the official NPS website for current regulations regarding drone operation.
While official tours might be limited, consider joining photography groups or hiring a local guide if you're seeking specialized photography experiences.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Focus on the educational aspects of the park, explaining the ancient history of the petrified wood and the diverse wildlife. Bring plenty of snacks and water, and be prepared for the desert sun. Shorter excursions to view specific petrified logs or look for wildlife can be more manageable and enjoyable for younger visitors.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
For those seeking a more challenging adventure, exploring off-trail sections (with caution and proper navigation) can lead to more secluded discoveries. The opportunity to witness entire fossilized trees and encounter wildlife like bison and wild horses makes this hike a truly memorable experience for nature lovers.
📸 Photographers
Aim for the golden hours of sunrise and sunset for the most dramatic lighting. Wide-angle lenses are great for the expansive views, while telephoto lenses are essential for wildlife shots. Remember to be patient, as wildlife sightings can be unpredictable, and the best shots often come with a bit of waiting.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Science of Petrified Wood
At Petrified Forest National Park, the wood dates back to the Triassic Period, approximately 225 million years ago. During this time, the area was a lush, subtropical environment with large conifer trees. When these trees fell, they were washed into river systems and buried in sediment, initiating the long process of fossilization. The park preserves one of the largest and most colorful concentrations of petrified wood in the world, offering a unique glimpse into a prehistoric landscape.
Visitors are often amazed by the sheer scale and detail of the petrified logs, some of which are entire tree trunks. The park's geology also reveals other fossils, including ancient reptiles and amphibians, providing a broader picture of the ecosystem that existed millions of years ago. Understanding the geological timescale and the slow, intricate process of fossilization enhances the appreciation for these ancient natural wonders.
Navigating Wildlife Encounters
It's crucial to remember that these are wild animals. Visitors are strongly advised to maintain a safe distance, never attempt to feed them, and be prepared to detour if they are blocking a trail. The Petrified Forest Loop Trail, in particular, can require significant off-trail navigation to circumnavigate herds of bison, which can add considerable time to your hike. Wearing appropriate footwear and being aware of your surroundings are essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Beyond the larger mammals, the park also supports smaller wildlife like snakes, toads, and various bird species. Observing these creatures in their natural habitat adds another layer of richness to the park visit. Always follow Leave No Trace principles and respect the wildlife to ensure their preservation for future generations.
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