Where is Petrified Forest National Park?
When we were camping at Homolovi State Park in Winslow, Arizona, we went on a field trip to visit the Petrified Forest National Park. It is about an hour away from Winslow. We spent the day there because dogs are allowed! There are so few places like this that you can take your dogs. Heads up, the trails do get hot especially in the summer. We had to watch out for their paws. Petrified Forest National Park is located in northeastern Arizona near the town of Holbrook. You can enter from Interstate 40 or Hwy 180. There is a 28 mile informative drive through the park and the Painted Desert. It is one way. We entered from the Hwy 180 entrance and finished leaving by Interstate 40.
What to Expect on a Visit
There are trails, scenic overlooks, and a loop you can drive or take a longer hike overlooking the colored geology of the Painted Desert, the Blue Mesa Loop. You can learn about the history here and how the petrified wood was formed. You can walk along a path and viepetrified wood along the way. You can visit ancient ruins and view petroglyphs. This area is scenic, yet unreal in many ways.
What are Some Park Amenities?
You’ll find limited bathroom opportunities along this journey. You are provided a map so you can plan accordingly. Also, there are limited food options in the park, however there are more options near the Interstate 40 entrance. There is even a gas station there. While visiting the gift shop, you can purchase your own little package of petrified wood. It is illegal to take petrified wood from the park, though. It is available in the gift shop only.
It Gets Hot Here!
Be aware, that even though you can take your dogs, there is no shade so the ground can get hot. There are a couple shade shelters along the way, but expect to be out in the sun for this visit. For the humans in the group, bring an umbrella or hat and plenty of water.
Worth a Visit
We learned so much during our visit. If you are in the area, Petrified Forest National Park is worth a visit. Happy travels!