The Petrified National Forest features two distinct sections – the southern end near Holbrook, AZ and the northern end just off I-40, which includes the Painted Desert.

First protected as a National Monument in 1906 and upgraded to a National Park in 1962, only 600,000 people visit annually. Coming from Flagstaff, we exited I-40 at Holbrook and traveled 20 miles on US Hwy 180 to the southern entrance station. From that entrance to the other end of the park is 28 miles, but packed with geological wonders.

The southern section focuses on six “forests” that contain petrified logs. Over 200 million years ago, this land hosted trees along a river system. Over time, the trees died and volcanic ash buried them. Later, the area rose above sea level and became the arid desert it is today.

To really appreciate these fossilized trees, visitors need to get out of the car at one of the many stops.