Photos of Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona
Know Before You Go
To make the most of your visit to Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona, here are some things to know before you go. Need more information? Read our guide to Things to See in Petrified Forest National Park to plan your trip.
What is Petrified Forest National Park?
Petrified Forest National Park protects one of the world’s largest and most colorful concentrations of petrified wood, remnants of a dense Triassic-era forest that existed over 200 million years ago. The park also features extensive badlands known as the Painted Desert, fossils, archaeological sites, and even traces of Historic Route 66.
Where is it located?
The park lies in northeastern Arizona between Holbrook and Winslow along Interstate 40/Route 66. The north entrance is off I-40 Exit 311; the scenic road runs about 28 miles through the park to U.S. Highway 180 at the south.
How much time should you plan to visit?
Many visitors spend 2 to 5 hours exploring the scenic drive, pull-outs, and a few short trails. If you want to hike several trails or explore archaeological sites, budget half-a-day or more.
What are the park hours and fees?
The park is generally open daily from about 8:00 am to 5:00 pm and gates close at dusk. Entrance fees are typically around $25 per private vehicle (valid 7 days), $15 for walk-in/bicycle, and $20 for motorcycles.
What visitor centers and exhibits are there?
Two on-site visitor centers provide information, restrooms, and interpretive displays that enrich your visit:
- Painted Desert Visitor Center (north) has orientation, exhibits, bookstore, and gift shop.
- Rainbow Forest Museum (south) has fossils, petrified wood exhibits, an orientation film, and access to nearby trails.
There is a gas station at the Painted Desert Visitor Center if you need to fuel up before driving through the park.
How is the climate and best time to visit?
Spring and fall offer milder temperatures and more pleasant hiking conditions. Summers can be very hot (often over 100 °F), especially midday, so start early or consider late afternoon stops. Winter brings cooler weather and often quieter conditions, though parts may be chilly.
No matter the time of day or year, don’t forget to use sunblock and stay hydrated.
Can pets, bicycles, and vehicles access the park?
Pets are welcome on paved roads and many pull-outs. Do not leave them unattended in the car. Pets are allowed on trails as long as they are leashed and picked up after. Animals other than service animals are not allowed inside the visitors centers.
The scenic road is drivable by most vehicles; parking is available at overlooks and trailheads. Bicycles are permitted on paved roads.
Can you remove petrified wood from the park?
No. All items in the park are protected. Collecting items and objects other than photographs and things sold in the gift show is prohibited. This includes petrified wood, fossils, rocks, soil, plants, pottery shards, arrowheads, petroglyphs, feathers, and grass. If you witness resource theft in the park please call 928-524-6025 and provide a description.
Is this a popular Route 66 attraction?
Yes. Petrified Forest is the only U.S. national park containing a segment of Historic Route 66 and offers a unique combination of natural wonders and Mother Road history, making it one of the most rewarding detours on an Arizona Route 66 itinerary. It is one of our picks for 66 Most Instagrammable Spots on Route 66.
Where to Stay Near Petrified Forest National Park
Complete your travel itinerary and get a good night’s rest on your road trip with a stay at one of these Route 66 motels in Arizona or New Mexico.
Wigwam Motel
Have you slept in a Wigwam lately? Seven Wigwam Motels were built in the 1930s and 1940s. Today, only three remain, including two on Route 66. Each motel room in the Holbrook Wigwam Motel is in an individual building shaped like a teepee. Spend the night in this motel, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and was the inspiration for Sally’s Cozy Cone Motel in the Pixar movie Cars.
La Posada Hotel
La Posada in Winslow, Arizona offers a four-star experience that can’t be beat. The 1930 hotel was created by architect Mary Colter, hotelier Fred Harvey and the Santa Fe Railway. It was the last great railway hotel built in America and the finest historic hotel on Route 66. Over the years it has served an impressive roster of celebrity guests, from James Cagney to Franklin D. Roosevelt to Amelia Earhart to John Wayne. Book a room and a reservation at The Turquoise Room, one of the finest restaurants in the southwest.
Historic El Rancho Hotel
One of the best motels on Route 66 is the Historic El Rancho Hotel in Gallup, New Mexico. Sleep where the stars have at this 1940s hotel that has hosted some of Hollywood’s biggest movie stars and makers, including Robert Mitchum, Elia Kazan, Spencer Tracy, Katherine Hepburn, William Holden, Billy Wilder, Kirk Douglas, Gregory Peck, Troy Donahue, and more. Photos of the stars are peppered throughout the intricately designed property and each room is themed with a star’s photo and information.
Related Tours
Enhance your visit to the Petrified Forest National Park with a tour!
Attractions Near Petrified Forest National Park on Route 66
Stewart’s Petrified Wood in Holbrook, Arizona
Painted Desert Indian Center in Holbrook, Arizona
Absolutely fantastic national park! I only had half a day to spend there and I saw a lot but wish I had more time for hiking. I’ll definitely plan a full day next time to see even more!