Crystal Forest
An easy trail among glittering logs.
Petrified Forest National Park
Fallen 225-million-year-old trees turned to rainbow-colored stone, on a colorful badland plateau beside old Route 66.
Logs of quartz litter the desert. The Painted Desert shows bands of red, pink and purple.
It's the only national park that includes a section of Route 66, marked by an old rusted car.
- Best Time
- April to October
- Time Needed
- Half a day
- Cost Level
- $$$$
- Open
- Every day except December 25
- Getting There
- On I-40, about 2 hours east of Flagstaff.
What to See
0 of 3 are freePainted Desert
Overlooks on the park's north side.
Blue Mesa
A trail among blue and purple badlands.
Know Before You Go
- It's illegal to take any wood.
- Bring water, and be aware of summer heat.
- Gates close around sunset.
Where to Stay
Stay in Holbrook.
Where to Eat
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Go Next
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The red sandstone buttes of every Western movie, on Navajo land; see them at sunrise or with a Navajo guide.
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Last checked 2026-11-01. Part of the Southwest list.