The best walks and hikes in Petrified Forest National Park

Yes, leashed pets are welcome on all paved roads and trails, such as the Crystal Forest Trail. They are also permitted in the park's official wilderness areas. However, they are not allowed inside any park buildings.

The park is very family-friendly as most trails are short and relatively flat. The Giant Logs Trail is a great option, featuring some of the largest petrified logs in the park. Another excellent choice is the paved Blue Mesa Trail, which offers a colorful and engaging walk through the badlands.

Yes, off-trail hiking is permitted in the Petrified Forest National Wilderness Area. This offers a chance for solitude and to explore more remote areas. A free permit is required for any off-trail hiking and can be obtained at the Painted Desert Visitor Center or Rainbow Forest Museum on the day of your hike. Strong navigation skills are essential.

Puerco Pueblo is one of the most accessible places to see ancient petroglyphs. A trail leads you past the remains of a 100-room pueblo and offers views of numerous rock carvings. Another significant site is Newspaper Rock, which features a large concentration of petroglyphs, viewable from an overlook with provided spotting scopes.

The park primarily features short, accessible trails. However, for those seeking a longer trek, the Onyx Bridge Trail is a 4.2-mile (6.8 km) off-the-beaten-path route. It's an unmaintained trail that leads to a large petrified log spanning a wash. Longer routes can also be created by exploring the designated wilderness areas.

Spring and autumn are the ideal seasons for hiking, offering pleasant temperatures. Summer can be very hot, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F (38°C), so hikes should be planned for the early morning. Winter is generally mild but can bring cold weather and occasional snow.

Nearly all the maintained trails in the park are rated as easy. They are typically short, often under two miles, with minimal elevation change. Many, like the Crystal Forest and Giant Logs trails, are paved and accessible. This makes the park an excellent destination for hikers of all ages and abilities.

Wear sturdy walking shoes, even for the shorter trails. The climate is very dry, so it is crucial to bring and drink plenty of water. Sun protection is essential year-round; wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. It's also wise to dress in layers, as temperatures can change quickly.

For the largest logs, head to the Giant Logs Trail near the Rainbow Forest Museum. For the highest concentration of long logs, the Long Logs Trail is an excellent choice. This area also provides access to the Agate House, a fascinating structure built from petrified wood.

Yes, many of the park's most popular trails are loops. The Blue Mesa Trail is a one-mile loop that descends into the colorful badlands. The Crystal Forest Trail and Giant Logs Trail are also easy, paved loops perfect for a short walk.

The park is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 stars. Hikers frequently praise the unique and colorful landscapes, especially the otherworldly scenery of the Painted Desert and Blue Mesa. The accessibility of the trails and the opportunity to see ancient petrified wood and petroglyphs up close are also popular highlights.