Painted Desert Visitor Center Petrified Forest National Park
Explore ancient forests turned to stone and vibrant badlands. A unique geological wonderland perfect for a scenic drive.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for Painted Desert colors
Painted Desert Visitor Center Petrified Forest National Park
Best Time
Best light for Painted Desert colors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore ancient forests turned to stone and vibrant badlands. A unique geological wonderland perfect for a scenic drive.
"The colors are gorgeous. Some of the spots are great Lookout points over the valley."
Pack Water & Snacks 💧
No food or drink available inside. Stay hydrated and fueled for your desert trek!
Don't Take Rocks! 🚫
Leave petrified wood behind. Rangers may search vehicles.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Giant Petrified Logs
Various locations along the park road
Walk among ancient, colorful petrified wood. Touch these giants and marvel at their preservation.
Painted Desert Views
Painted Desert Visitor Center area
Witness breathtaking vistas of colorful badlands, especially stunning in late afternoon light.
Crystal Forest
Near the Painted Desert Visitor Center
Explore a dense concentration of sparkling petrified wood, showcasing intricate crystal formations.
Agate House
South end of the park
Discover a reconstructed Ancestral Puebloan dwelling made entirely of petrified wood.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Drive-Through Adventure
Respect the Ancient Landscape
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack Water & Snacks 💧
No food or drink available inside. Stay hydrated and fueled for your desert trek!
Don't Take Rocks! 🚫
Leave petrified wood behind. Rangers may search vehicles.
North to South Route
Enter north, exit south for best Painted Desert light.
Allow Ample Time ⏳
A day is good, 1.5 days if you want to linger.
Is it worth it to visit Petrified Forest National Park?
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack Water & Snacks 💧
No food or drink available inside. Stay hydrated and fueled for your desert trek!
Don't Take Rocks! 🚫
Leave petrified wood behind. Rangers may search vehicles.
North to South Route
Enter north, exit south for best Painted Desert light.
Allow Ample Time ⏳
A day is good, 1.5 days if you want to linger.
Wear Comfortable Shoes 👟
Short trails are available to get closer to the sights.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the unique geological wonders of Petrified Forest National Park, particularly the vibrant colors of the Painted Desert and the ancient petrified logs. The scenic drive is a major draw, offering accessible exploration for all. However, some find the Painted Desert Visitor Center dated and note the lack of amenities like food and water, emphasizing the need for preparation.
"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."
Bonnie F
"Visited in May 2024. A truly Amazing experience from beginning to end. Entered from the North off Interstate 40 and exited from the South near Holbrook. The next time I visit, I'd go from south to north to capture the brilliant deeper shades of red in the Painted Desert during the late afternoon."
Rick White
"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."
Mike Elliott
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is accessible via Interstate 40. The north entrance is near Exit 311, and the south entrance is near Holbrook, AZ. Many visitors enter from the north and exit from the south, or vice versa, as it's a linear park.
Yes, Petrified Forest National Park is primarily a scenic driving tour. The main park road connects various viewpoints and trailheads, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
Yes, a day is generally sufficient for a good overview of Petrified Forest and the Painted Desert, especially if you focus on the main viewpoints. For a more relaxed experience, consider 1.5 days.
Many visitors prefer entering from the north and exiting from the south to catch the Painted Desert in the best light during the late afternoon. However, either entrance works well.
No, there are no stores or restaurants within Petrified Forest National Park. It's essential to pack plenty of water and snacks before entering.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for Petrified Forest National Park is typically $25 per vehicle for a 7-day pass. Military discounts are available.
No, advance booking is generally not required for Petrified Forest National Park. You can purchase your entrance pass at the park's entrance stations.
Park hours vary seasonally, but the park is generally open daily from early morning to late afternoon. Always check the official NPS website for the most current hours.
Yes, military discounts are available for park entry.
The Painted Desert Visitor Center is at the north end and offers maps and basic information, though some find it dated. The Rainbow Forest Museum at the south end is more modern and provides a good overview of the park's natural history.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Key highlights include the Giant Petrified Logs, the Painted Desert vistas, Crystal Forest, and the Agate House. Short trails like the Giant Logs Trail and Crystal Forest Trail offer close-up views.
Driving straight through without stops takes about an hour. However, to truly appreciate the viewpoints and short trails, plan for at least 3-4 hours.
Yes, there are several short, easy trails like the Giant Logs Trail, Crystal Forest Trail, and Blue Mesa Trail that allow you to get closer to the petrified wood and unique geological formations.
While some areas allow you to walk among and touch the petrified logs, it's crucial to respect the park's rules and avoid disturbing or taking any pieces.
You might spot pronghorn, coyotes, various birds, and reptiles. Keep a safe distance and never feed the wildlife.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoon offers the most dramatic light for the Painted Desert, enhancing its vibrant colors. Sunrise can also be beautiful, though access might be limited.
The Painted Desert overlooks, the colorful badlands of Blue Mesa, and the intricate patterns of the petrified logs are highly photogenic.
For general personal photography, no special permit is required. However, commercial photography or videography may require a permit.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes like the Painted Desert, while a macro lens can capture the intricate details of petrified wood. A tripod is useful for low-light conditions.
No, drone operations are prohibited in all National Parks, including Petrified Forest National Park, for safety and environmental reasons.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Make it a scavenger hunt to find different colors of petrified wood or spot wildlife like pronghorn. The visitor centers offer opportunities to learn about the park's paleontology and history. Consider bringing a notebook for kids to sketch what they see or write down interesting facts. The park's linear layout makes it easy to manage with children, allowing for flexible stops and breaks.
🚗 Road Trippers
Consider planning your visit to align with the late afternoon light for the most dramatic views of the Painted Desert. This timing also helps avoid the harshest midday sun. The park offers a unique geological spectacle that breaks up a long drive with stunning natural beauty and a glimpse into prehistoric times.
📸 Photographers
Be mindful of the park's operating hours for sunrise and sunset photography. While drones are prohibited, the natural light and geological formations provide ample subjects. The Blue Mesa area is another highly photogenic spot with its undulating, colorful hills. Always respect park regulations and avoid disturbing the natural environment for the sake of a photograph.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ancient Giants: Petrified Wood
Many visitors express awe at the sheer size and preservation of the petrified logs. The ability to walk among them and see the detailed bark patterns is a unique experience. It's a tangible connection to a prehistoric world, offering a profound sense of geological time. The sheer volume of petrified wood scattered across the landscape is a testament to the park's ancient forest history.
The Painted Desert: A Canvas of Color
Travelers often recommend visiting the Painted Desert in the late afternoon for the most spectacular views. The changing light throughout the day can dramatically alter the landscape's appearance, making it a photographer's dream. The sheer scale and the intricate layering of colors create a surreal and unforgettable panorama. It’s a stark contrast to the petrified wood, showcasing the park's diverse geological artistry.
Visitor Centers and Amenities
It's crucial to note that there are no food or drink services within the park. Visitors are strongly advised to bring ample water and pack a lunch or snacks before entering. This is especially important during warmer months when temperatures can soar. The park is designed for a self-guided experience, so being prepared with provisions is key to a comfortable visit.
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