Nestled in northeastern Arizona, Petrified Forest National Park is a hidden gem that offers travelers a fascinating journey through time, color, and history. From the vibrant hues of the Painted Desert to the fossilized remnants of a prehistoric forest, this park is a photographer’s paradise and a must-see for anyone exploring the American Southwest. If you would like to see my process for How I Find Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations in the USA check out here.
The Painted Desert: Nature’s Canvas
One of the first stops on your journey through Petrified Forest National Park should be the Painted Desert. Stretching over 200 miles, this desert is known for its dramatic, colorful layers of red, orange, pink, and purple sediment. The colors shift throughout the day, offering endless photographic opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset. Walking along the overlooks, you can’t help but feel the vastness and timelessness of this remarkable landscape.
Newspaper Rock: Stories Etched in Stone
For a glimpse into the region’s human history, Newspaper Rock is a fascinating stop. This rock panel is covered in hundreds of petroglyphs created by ancient Native American cultures over centuries. Each carving tells a story—of hunting, spiritual beliefs, and daily life—and it’s incredible to think these images have survived for hundreds of years.
More than 650 images adorn the boulders below – one of the largest concentrations of petroglyphs in the park. People who farmed the Puerco River Valley 650 to 2000 years ago pecked these petroglyphs onto the rocks, leaving a legacy etched in stone.
The great variety of petroglyphs on Newspaper Rock includes anthropomorphs (human-like figures) and zoomorphs (animal-like figures), katsinas (spiritual figures), hands and tracks and geometrics.
Route 66 Through the Park: A Trip Back in Time
Historic Route 66 weaves its way through parts of Petrified Forest National Park, adding a nostalgic charm to your visit. As you drive along, you’ll spot old telephone poles, the classic Route 66 sign set in cement, and stretches of the original highway that have been preserved for travelers seeking a taste of mid-century Americana. For photographers, these relics paired with the desert backdrop make for iconic shots that feel frozen in time.
The Petrified Forest: Ancient Trees Turned to Stone
The park’s namesake, the petrified forest, is perhaps its most awe-inspiring feature. Millions of years ago, ancient trees fell into river channels and were quickly buried by sediment. Over time, minerals like silica infiltrated the wood, turning it to stone while retaining the original tree’s structure. Today, you can walk among massive logs that shimmer with shades of purple, blue, and gold—nature’s own fossilized artwork.
Getting There and Where to Stay
Petrified Forest National Park is conveniently located along Interstate 40, with Holbrook, Arizona, just a short drive away serving as the main gateway for visitors. From Holbrook, it’s an easy drive to the park’s entrances, where maps and visitor centers provide guidance for exploring the highlights.
For accommodations, Holbrook offers several hotels, motels, and cozy inns, perfect for resting after a day of hiking and photography. For a more immersive experience, consider camping at nearby sites or staying at historic Route 66 motels for a true nostalgic vibe.
Tips for Visiting
- Plan at least a full day to explore both the Painted Desert and the petrified forest areas.
- Bring plenty of water, sun protection, and sturdy shoes for walking along trails.
- Sunrise and sunset provide the best lighting for photography, especially at the Painted Desert overlooks.
- Don’t miss the chance to drive the original Route 66 sections within the park—perfect for history buffs and photographers alike.
Whether you’re drawn by the colorful desert vistas, the ancient fossils, or the nostalgia of Route 66, Petrified Forest National Park is a destination that captures the imagination and the camera lens alike. It’s a place where every turn tells a story—both natural and human—that spans millions of years. And if you would like to see other nearby locations, my Southeast Region Travel Guide has some great locations to visit.
While you are at Petrified Forest, check out these other nearby destinations:
- Canyon de Chelly: Exploring Arizona’s Ancient Heart
- Exploring Montezuma Castle: Arizona’s Cliffside Treasure
- Grand Canyon Travel Guide
Hit the back roads with me—get road-trip inspiration, hidden gems, and photography stories from across the USA!
