Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona holds secrets that span millions of years, from ancient trees turned to stone to hidden petroglyphs etched by long-gone civilizations.
While 590,334 visitors explored this geological wonderland in 2021,1 many are unaware of its most fascinating features. Here are 12 secrets of Arizona’s Petrified Forests that will make you see this prehistoric landscape in a whole new light.
1. The Wood That Isn’t Wood
The petrified logs scattered across the park may look like wood, but they’re actually solid quartz. (ref) Over 200 million years ago, minerals replaced the organic material of fallen trees, creating stunning crystalline replicas.
The result? Logs that shine with a rainbow of colors, from deep reds to brilliant purples.
2. A Prehistoric Tropical Paradise
It’s hard to imagine, but 225 million years ago, Petrified Forest was a lush, tropical landscape near the equator. The area was part of the supercontinent Pangea, teeming with diverse plant life and crisscrossed by rivers.
This ancient environment is key to understanding how the petrified wood formed.
3. The Park That Closes at Night
Unlike most national parks, Petrified Forest shuts its gates each evening. There are no campgrounds within the park boundaries, making it one of the few national parks where you can’t spend the night.
This unique policy helps protect the precious petrified wood from theft.
4. A Window to the Triassic
Beyond petrified wood, the park is a treasure trove of Triassic fossils. Paleontologists have uncovered remains of early dinosaurs, giant amphibians, and crocodile-like phytosaurs. (ref)
These fossils provide crucial insights into life on Earth over 200 million years ago.
5. The Painted Desert’s True Colors
The northern section of the park showcases the stunning Painted Desert. These colorful badlands stretch for 120 miles, with each layer of sediment telling a different chapter of Earth’s history.
Sunset is the best time to witness the full spectrum of colors painted across the landscape.
6. Ancient Art Gallery
Newspaper Rock, located within the park, features over 650 petroglyphs etched into its surface. These ancient rock carvings, left by Indigenous peoples over centuries, remain a mystery to researchers who are still working to decipher their meanings. (ref)
7. The Route 66 Connection
Petrified Forest National Park is the only national park site containing a segment of the historic Route 66. This iconic American highway once passed through the park, leaving behind remnants that transport visitors back to the golden age of road trips.
8. A Dark Sky Haven
In 2018, Petrified Forest was designated an International Dark Sky Park. Visitors can obtain a free Dark Sky Viewing Permit to experience the park after hours, offering unparalleled stargazing opportunities in the clear Arizona night.
9. The Homestead That Became an Inn
The Painted Desert Inn, now a National Historic Landmark, began as a simple homestead. Built in 1924 and originally called “Stone Tree House,” it was strategically constructed to satisfy Homestead Act requirements.
Today, it serves as a museum rather than visitor accommodations.
10. A Camel Caravan’s Forgotten Path
In the mid-1800s, the U.S. government experimented with using camels for transportation in the Southwest. Between 1857 and 1860, camel caravans crossed what is now Petrified Forest National Park, leaving behind a unique chapter in American history.
11. The Vanishing Petrified Wood
Despite strict protection, it’s estimated that 12 tons of petrified wood are illegally removed from the park each year. This ongoing theft threatens the park’s unique geological heritage and underscores the importance of preservation efforts.
12. A Living Laboratory
While famous for its fossilized remains, Petrified Forest is home to a surprising array of living creatures. The park supports 7 species of amphibians, 231 species of birds, 44 species of mammals, and 16 species of reptiles.
This biodiversity showcases the resilience of life in even the harshest environments.
Best Time to Visit Petrified Forest National Park
Spring and fall are generally considered the ideal seasons to visit Petrified Forest National Park. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect throughout the year:
Spring (March to May):
- Mild temperatures (50s to 70s°F)
- Ideal time to see blooming wildflowers, especially in May
Fall (September to November):
- Pleasant temperatures, similar to spring
- Great for hiking with fewer visitors than in summer
Summer (June to August):
- Hottest season (90s to 100°F)
- Monsoon season with afternoon thunderstorms (July and August)
- Best to plan early morning activities and stay hydrated
Winter (December to February):
- Cold temperatures (20s to 50s°F)
- Possible snow and lowest crowd levels
- Be prepared for cold weather and possible closures
For the best overall experience, aim for a visit in spring or fall when temperatures are moderate, rainfall is low, and you can fully enjoy the park’s outdoor attractions without extreme weather conditions or large crowds.
Source:
1. National Parked
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Nancy Maffia
Nancy received a bachelor’s in biology from Elmira College and a master’s degree in horticulture and communications from the University of Kentucky. Worked in plant taxonomy at the University of Florida and the L. H. Bailey Hortorium at Cornell University, and wrote and edited gardening books at Rodale Press in Emmaus, PA. Her interests are plant identification, gardening, hiking, and reading.
