Petrified Forest National Park off the beaten path offers a unique and less-crowded experience for adventurous visitors. This hidden side of the park includes secluded trails, lesser-known attractions, and quiet viewpoints away from the main tourist areas. Exploring these off-the-beaten-path locations allows visitors to discover the park’s true beauty, ancient petrified wood, colorful badlands, and rich cultural history without the crowds.
What Are the Hidden Trails in Petrified Forest National Park?
Petrified Forest National Park boasts several hidden trails that offer a more intimate and adventurous experience. These trails are less frequented by tourists and provide unique perspectives of the park’s landscapes and geological features.
Blue Forest Trail
- Length: 3 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Notable Features:
- Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (1934-1937)
- Reopened in 2013
- Offers views of colorful badland hills and petrified wood
- Connects the main park road at the Tepees area to the Blue Mesa Loop Trail
Jasper Forest Road (First Forest)
- Length: 2.5 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Notable Features:
- Follows an old CCC-constructed road from the 1930s
- Known for colorful petrified wood
- Provides a quiet hiking experience
Onyx Bridge
- Length: 4 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Notable Features:
- Located in the Painted Desert Wilderness
- Features 210 million-year-old petrified logs in the Black Forest area
- Follows Lithodendron Wash
Martha’s Butte
- Length: 2 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Notable Features:
- Marked by petroglyphs
- Offers a quieter hiking experience
What Are the Lesser-Known Attractions in Petrified Forest National Park?
While many visitors focus on the main attractions, Petrified Forest National Park has several hidden gems that are worth exploring.
Blue Forest Trailhead (The Tepees)
- Location: Near mile marker 14 on Petrified Forest Road
- Accessibility: Unmarked trailhead opposite the Tepees
- Unique Characteristics:
- More adventurous hiking experience
- Colorful badland hills and petrified wood
Puerco Pueblo Trail
- Location: North of Newspaper Rock
- Accessibility: 0.3-mile loop trail
- Unique Characteristics:
- Ruins of a village with over 100 rooms
- More than 800 petroglyphs
- Rich historical and cultural experience
Dead Wash Overlook Hike
- Location: East of the main park road
- Accessibility: Moderately difficult hike
- Unique Characteristics:
- Broad view across Dead Wash drainage
- Giant sandstone boulders and petrified wood
Where Can You Find Off-the-Grid Camping Options Near Petrified Forest National Park?
While Petrified Forest National Park doesn’t offer backcountry camping within its boundaries, there are nearby options for those seeking an off-the-grid experience.
Backcountry Camping Near the Park
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Permitted Areas | Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests, other public lands |
| Amenities | Typically undeveloped |
| Reservation Requirements | Generally not required |
| Costs | Often free, but check local regulations |
Developed Campgrounds
| Campground | Details |
|---|---|
| Painted Desert Inn | Within the park, basic amenities |
| Rainbow Forest | Within the park, basic amenities |
| Reservation | Through recreation.gov |
| Costs | Fees apply, check park website |
What Are the Secluded Viewpoints in Petrified Forest National Park?
For those seeking solitude and breathtaking views, Petrified Forest National Park offers several secluded viewpoints away from the crowds.
Blue Mesa Overlook
- GPS Coordinates: Approximately 35.0733° N, 109.7833° W
- Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon or early morning
- Challenges:
- Can be crowded during peak hours
- Blue Mesa Trail offers a more secluded experience
Jasper Forest Overlook
- GPS Coordinates: Approximately 35.0667° N, 109.8167° W
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon
- Challenges:
- Easily accessible but less crowded
- Offers unique views of petrified wood deposits
Dead Wash Overlook
- GPS Coordinates: Approximately 35.0833° N, 109.7667° W
- Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon
- Challenges:
- Requires moderately difficult hike
- Involves scrambling over boulders
How Can You Make the Most of Your Off-the-Beaten-Path Experience in Petrified Forest National Park?
To truly experience Petrified Forest National Park off the beaten path, consider these tips:
- Plan Ahead: Research lesser-known trails and attractions before your visit.
- Start Early: Begin your day at sunrise to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Pack Essentials: Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection.
- Respect the Environment: Stay on designated trails and practice Leave No Trace principles.
- Engage with Rangers: Ask park rangers about hidden gems and current conditions.
- Consider Guided Tours: Some off-trail areas may be accessible through ranger-led programs.
- Visit During Off-Season: Explore the park during less busy times of the year for a more solitary experience.
By venturing off the beaten path in Petrified Forest National Park, visitors can discover a world of hidden wonders, from ancient petrified logs to colorful badlands and rich cultural sites. These less-traveled areas offer a chance to connect with nature and history in a more intimate setting, away from the hustle and bustle of popular tourist spots. Whether hiking a secluded trail, admiring petroglyphs at Martha’s Butte, or taking in the vast landscape from Dead Wash Overlook, the off-the-beaten-path experiences in Petrified Forest National Park promise adventure, solitude, and unforgettable memories.
References:
1. Blue Forest Trail, One of the Best-Kept Secrets in Petrified Forest NP
2. One Day in Petrified Forest National Park: A Complete Guide
3. Off the Beaten Path Hikes in Petrified Forest National Park