The best walks and hikes in Petrified Forest National Wilderness Area

Leashed pets are welcome on paved roads and in the parking lots, as well as on the paved Giant Logs Loop. However, for the protection of the fragile desert ecosystem and the petrified wood, they are not permitted on any other trails or in the backcountry wilderness.

The park is very family-friendly, with several short, paved trails perfect for kids and strollers. The Crystal Forest Trail loop is a great option, offering a short walk of less than a mile through an area with a high concentration of colorful petrified wood.

Yes, off-trail hiking is a popular way to experience the solitude of the park. The designated Petrified Forest National Wilderness Area allows for exploration away from established paths. You can get a free guide for these 'Off the Beaten Path' routes at a park visitor center. Always be prepared with navigation tools, as these routes are unmarked.

Most established trails are relatively short. For a longer walk, the Onyx Bridge Trail is one of the more substantial routes at over 4 miles (6.8 km). For true long-distance hiking, you would need to plan a custom route through the backcountry wilderness area.

You should pack for a desert environment. Essentials include plenty of water (at least one gallon per person, per day), sun protection such as a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen, and sturdy footwear. There is very little shade and no water available on the trails, so it's critical to carry everything you will need.

Yes, backpacking is permitted in the designated wilderness area north of Puerco Pueblo for those looking to spend a night under the stars. A free wilderness permit is required and can be obtained on the day of your trip from the Painted Desert Visitor Center or Rainbow Forest Museum. Regulations are in place to protect the park, so be sure to follow all rules provided with your permit.

No, there are no reliable water sources in the Petrified Forest National Wilderness Area. You must carry all the water you will need for the entire duration of your hike. This is especially critical for longer day hikes or overnight backpacking trips.

The park is a geological showcase. Beyond the famous petrified wood, look for the multi-colored bentonite clay hills of the Painted Desert and the Blue Mesa badlands. Formations like The Tepees are conical hills with vibrant stripes, and Agate Bridge is a 110-foot-long petrified log spanning a gully. For more detailed information on the park's geology, you can consult the National Park Service website.

The park is home to a variety of desert wildlife adapted to the harsh environment. You might spot pronghorn, coyotes, jackrabbits, and various species of lizards and birds. Many animals are most active during the cooler hours of the early morning or late evening.

The northern section of the park offers spectacular panoramic views of the Painted Desert. Viewpoints like Nizhoni Point are excellent, and the highly-rated Painted Desert Rim Trail provides a short, easy walk along the edge of the badlands, offering stunning and expansive vistas of the colorful landscape.

The region is highly regarded by the komoot community. Reviewers frequently praise the unique, otherworldly landscapes and the incredible colors of both the petrified wood and the badlands. The accessibility of the trails, which allows for an immersive experience without requiring extreme exertion, is also a commonly mentioned highlight.

For a quieter experience, consider a hike like the Jasper Forest Trail. It takes you through an area with a high concentration of petrified wood but is generally less busy than the main paved loops. Any of the 'Off the Beaten Path' backcountry routes will also offer significant solitude.