Sleeping Rainbows Trail

Step into a landscape frozen in time on the Petrified Forest and Sleeping Rainbows Trail, where ancient logs have transformed into vibrant, colorful stone. This rugged path, best explored on foot, winds through pinyon and juniper trees, revealing an extraordinary concentration of petrified wood specimens. The highlight is the "Sleeping Rainbows" section, where logs shimmer with reds, oranges, and blues, offering a truly unique visual experience.

While Komoot lists this as an easy touring cycling route, the 2.3-mile (3.7 km) trail with 415 feet (127 metres) of elevation gain is actually quite challenging due to its rocky terrain and steep sections, especially on the Sleeping Rainbows loop. It's primarily a hiking trail, taking about 26 minutes for a cyclist, but much longer and more strenuous for hikers. Plan to arrive early to secure parking and bring plenty of water, as the trail offers little shade.

This trail is a geological marvel, showcasing the incredible process of petrification that turned ancient trees into stone, colored by various minerals. You'll also enjoy scenic views of Wide Hollow Reservoir and the distant pink cliffs of Bryce Canyon National Park. It's a fantastic option for those seeking a short, impactful hike with a high concentration of unique natural features in Escalante Petrified Forest State Park.