Petrified Forest National Park offers a stunning 28-mile scenic drive through colorful badlands, ancient petrified forests, and expansive desert vistas. The main road, Petrified Forest Road, winds from the north entrance near I-40 to the south entrance by Highway 180. Visitors can experience panoramic views of the Painted Desert, unique geological formations, and prehistoric petroglyphs. The drive showcases the park’s diverse landscapes, from vibrant red and orange hues to the surreal blue-tinted badlands of Blue Mesa.
What Are the Best Viewpoints Along the Drive?
The scenic drive through Petrified Forest National Park offers numerous breathtaking viewpoints:
- Tawa Point
- Kachina Point
- Pintado Point
- Chinde Point
- Blue Mesa Overlooks
- Agate Bridge
- Jasper Forest Overlook
- Crystal Forest
Each of these stops provides unique perspectives on the park’s diverse landscapes, from the colorful Painted Desert to the otherworldly petrified wood deposits.
How Long Does the Scenic Drive Take?
The 28-mile drive through Petrified Forest National Park typically takes about 1-2 hours without stops. However, to fully appreciate the views and explore some short trails, it’s recommended to allocate 3-4 hours for the entire drive. This allows time for:
- Photo opportunities at scenic overlooks
- Short walks to viewpoints
- Exploring the Blue Mesa area
- Visiting the Painted Desert Inn National Historic Landmark
- Checking out the petrified wood areas in the southern part of the park
What Are the Must-See Attractions Along the Drive?
While driving through Petrified Forest National Park, don’t miss these key attractions:
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Painted Desert Visitor Center: Start your journey here to get oriented and learn about the park’s geology and history.
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Painted Desert Inn: This National Historic Landmark offers stunning views and exhibits on the area’s cultural history.
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Blue Mesa: A 3.5-mile loop road with several overlooks showcasing the park’s iconic blue-gray badlands.
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Newspaper Rock: View hundreds of ancient petroglyphs from a nearby overlook.
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Crystal Forest: A short trail through an area dense with colorful petrified wood specimens.
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Giant Logs: Located near the Rainbow Forest Museum, this trail features some of the largest and most colorful examples of petrified wood in the park.
What Is the Best Time of Day for Scenic Views?
For optimal views while driving past Petrified Forest National Park, consider these times:
- Early Morning: Soft light enhances the colors of the Painted Desert and minimizes harsh shadows.
- Late Afternoon: The low sun angle creates dramatic shadows and intensifies the landscape’s colors.
- Sunset: Spectacular light show over the Painted Desert, especially from viewpoints like Kachina Point.
Avoid midday if possible, as the harsh sunlight can wash out colors and create unflattering shadows for photography.
Are There Any Seasonal Considerations for the Drive?
| Season | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Mild temperatures, wildflowers | Occasional wind storms |
| Summer | Extended daylight hours | Extreme heat, crowded |
| Fall | Comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds | Shorter days |
| Winter | Solitude, potential snow scenes | Cold temperatures, limited services |
Each season offers a unique perspective on the park’s landscapes. Spring and fall are generally considered the best times to visit for comfortable temperatures and optimal viewing conditions.
What Wildlife Might Be Seen During the Drive?
While driving through Petrified Forest National Park, keep an eye out for:
- Pronghorn antelope
- Coyotes
- Jackrabbits
- Various bird species (e.g., ravens, hawks)
- Lizards and snakes (more common in warmer months)
Wildlife is most active during early morning and late afternoon hours. Always maintain a safe distance and do not feed or approach animals.
How Can Visitors Enhance Their Driving Experience?
To make the most of your scenic drive through Petrified Forest National Park:
- Use the Park Map: Available at entrance stations, it highlights key viewpoints and attractions.
- Listen to the Audio Tour: Download the park’s official app for a guided experience.
- Take Short Hikes: Many overlooks offer short trails for closer views of the landscape.
- Bring Binoculars: Useful for spotting distant wildlife and examining geological features.
- Pack a Picnic: Several overlooks have picnic areas with stunning views.
- Stay for Sunset: If possible, time your visit to catch the spectacular desert sunset.
Remember to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and snacks, as services within the park are limited.
What Photography Tips Can Improve Scenic Shots?
For capturing the best views while driving past Petrified Forest National Park:
- Use a polarizing filter to enhance sky color and reduce glare.
- Experiment with wide-angle lenses for sweeping desert vistas.
- Include foreground elements (e.g., petrified wood, desert plants) to add depth to landscape shots.
- Try HDR techniques to capture the full range of light in high-contrast scenes.
- Use a tripod for sharp images, especially in low light conditions.
- Explore different perspectives by getting low to the ground or finding elevated viewpoints.
Always follow park regulations and stay on designated trails when photographing.
By following these tips and taking time to explore the various viewpoints, visitors can fully appreciate the stunning views while driving past Petrified Forest National Park. The unique combination of colorful badlands, ancient petrified wood, and expansive desert vistas creates an unforgettable scenic drive experience.
References:
1. Frommer’s – Driving Tours in Petrified Forest National Park
2. AllTrails – Petrified Forest Scenic Drive
3. Earth Trekkers – Petrified Forest National Park: Travel Guide & Itinerary