Petrified Forest National Park, located in Arizona, is a unique destination showcasing ancient fossilized wood and colorful badlands. Traveling from Nashville involves a significant journey of about 1,440 miles by road or a combination of flights and ground transportation. This guide provides essential information on travel options, park features, hiking trails, and nearby accommodations to help plan your trip from Nashville to this geological wonder.
What are the Best Travel Options from Nashville to Petrified Forest National Park?
Driving Route
- Distance: Approximately 1,440.5 miles
- Estimated driving time: 20-22 hours
- Primary route: Interstate 40 (I-40) westbound
- States crossed: Tennessee, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona
Flying Options
- Fly to Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG)
- Closest airport to the park (about 2 hours drive)
- No direct flights from Nashville International Airport (BNA)
-
Requires layover and car rental
-
Fly to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)
- Larger airport with more flight options
- About 3.5 hours drive to the park
- May offer better rental car choices
How to Plan Your Visit to Petrified Forest National Park?
Park Hours and Fees
- Open daily, year-round
- South unit: 24/7 access
- North unit: Mid-May to mid-October (weather dependent)
- Entrance fee: $30 per vehicle (7-day pass)
- Annual passes available
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Mild weather, wildflowers | Possible wind storms |
| Summer | Extended daylight hours | Hot temperatures, crowds |
| Fall | Comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds | Shorter days |
| Winter | Solitude, possible snow scenes | Cold temperatures, limited services |
What are the Must-See Attractions in Petrified Forest National Park?
- Painted Desert
- Crystal Forest
- Blue Mesa
- Agate House
- Newspaper Rock
- Puerco Pueblo
Which Hiking Trails Should You Explore in the Park?
Painted Desert Rim Trail
- Length: 1 mile round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Features: Panoramic views of the Painted Desert
Giant Logs Trail
- Length: 0.4-mile loop
- Difficulty: Easy
- Features: Large and colorful petrified logs
Blue Mesa Trail
- Length: 1-mile loop
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Features: Blue-gray badlands, petrified wood
Long Logs and Agate House Trail
- Length: 2.6 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Features: Dense concentration of petrified wood, ancient pueblo dwelling
Where to Stay Near Petrified Forest National Park?
Holbrook, Arizona
- Distance from park: 26 miles
- Accommodation types:
- Budget motels
- Mid-range hotels
- RV parks
Winslow, Arizona
- Distance from park: 58 miles
- Accommodation options:
- Historic La Posada Hotel
- Chain hotels
- Bed and breakfasts
Flagstaff, Arizona
- Distance from park: 118 miles
- Lodging choices:
- Upscale resorts
- Boutique hotels
- Vacation rentals
What Should You Pack for Your Trip to Petrified Forest National Park?
- Comfortable hiking shoes
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- Layers of clothing (temperatures can vary)
- Water bottles and snacks
- Camera
- Binoculars
- First aid kit
- Park map and guidebook
How to Respect and Preserve the Park?
- Stay on designated trails
- Do not remove petrified wood or other natural objects
- Properly dispose of waste
- Observe wildlife from a distance
- Follow Leave No Trace principles
What are Some Nearby Attractions to Combine with Your Petrified Forest Visit?
- Grand Canyon National Park (3.5 hours drive)
- Meteor Crater (1 hour drive)
- Canyon de Chelly National Monument (2 hours drive)
- Painted Desert (adjacent to the park)
- Route 66 attractions in Holbrook and Winslow
By planning your trip from Nashville to Petrified Forest National Park with these details in mind, you’ll be well-prepared to explore this unique geological treasure and its surrounding attractions. Remember to check the park’s official website for the most up-to-date information on conditions and regulations before your visit.
References:
1. https://www.nps.gov/pefo/planyourvisit/itineraries.htm
2. https://www.rome2rio.com/s/Nashville/Petrified-Forest-National-Park
3. https://www.trippy.com/drive/Nashville-to-Petrified-Forest-National-Park