Petrified Forest National Park is a stunning blend of ancient history and surreal desert beauty, where colorful badlands and fossilized logs tell a story 200 million years in the making. As the fourth national park we ever visited, it left a lasting impression on us with its unique landscapes and quiet charm. Whether you’re planning your first visit or want to make the most of a quick stop along I-40, this Petrified Forest National Park guide brings together all our top resources to help you explore this otherworldly landscape with ease.
🧭 Petrified Forest at a Glance
Here are a few quick facts to help you get oriented before planning your visit to this colorful, quiet, and fossil-rich national park in the Arizona desert.
- Location: Northeastern Arizona, along Interstate 40.
- Established: December 9, 1962.
- Size: Over 221,000 acres.
- Annual Visitors: ~600,000.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for mild temperatures and clearer skies.
- Top Highlights: Petrified wood, Painted Desert views, ancient petroglyphs, Route 66 history, and scenic drives.
- Entrance Fee: $25 per vehicle (valid for 7 consecutive days); annual and interagency passes accepted. Children 15 and under enter free.
Petrified Forest National Park Weather Forecast
See today’s conditions and the 7-day forecast to plan your adventure in Petrified Forest National Park.
Holbrook, AZ WeatherIs Petrified Forest National Park Worth Visiting?
Discover what makes this lesser-known park stand out — from ancient petroglyphs to surreal desert scenery and quiet trails.
👉 More Than Fossilized Wood: What Makes Petrified Forest Worth the Stop
This was our fourth national park, and we honestly didn’t expect much. But the Painted Desert, historic sites, and peaceful vibe completely won us over.
Your Perfect Day in Petrified Forest
Short on time? This one-day guide helps you hit the park’s highlights — from scenic overlooks to ancient ruins — with minimal backtracking.
👉 How To Spend One Day in Petrified Forest National Park
Got a day to explore? We’ll show you how to make the most of it with a simple route and unforgettable stops you won’t want to miss.
Discover Petrified Forest National Park in Motion
From fossilized trees to surreal badlands, this video brings Arizona’s Petrified Forest National Park to life. Follow along as we explore ancient landscapes, colorful rock formations, and the quiet magic of a place where geology and history collide. Whether you’re planning a visit or just curious, this visual journey offers a fresh perspective on one of America’s most underrated parks.
🎥 Watch below:
Coming Soon: More Petrified Forest Resources
We’re working on even more helpful guides, including:
- Top things to do in the park.
- Where to stay.
Bookmark this page — we’ll add new links as they go live!
Ready to Explore?
Use the links above to dive into each resource and start planning your visit. Don’t forget your camera — the petrified logs and Painted Desert views are calling!
Featured image credit: demerzel21 via Deposit Photos