Petrified Forest National Park
Petrified Forest National Park
Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona is a place where ancient history comes to life. It's a desert landscape full of petrified wood, multi-colored badlands and incredible rock formations that date back over 200 million years. The park sits at the southern edge of the Colorado Plateau and covers about 230 square miles.
The colorful Painted Desert section gives you those classic American Southwest views - layers of red, pink, purple and blue hills stretching to the horizon. But what makes this park truly special are the fossilized trees that have turned to stone through a fascinating natural process. These ancient logs are now beautiful quartz crystals in shades of red, yellow, purple, blue and green.
Native Americans have a long history here, with over 13,000 years of human presence. You can see petroglyphs and ancient pueblo ruins at sites like Puerco Pueblo and Newspaper Rock. Historic Route 66 also passed through the park, and there's a commemorative marker where the famous highway once ran.
The park has a unique problem with visitors stealing pieces of petrified wood as souvenirs. Rangers say they receive returned wood in the mail almost daily, often with notes from people who experienced bad luck after taking it. Whether you believe in the 'curse' or not, it's important to remember that removing anything from national parks is illegal and damages these precious places for future visitors.
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Things to do in Petrified Forest National Park
Top things to do in Petrified Forest National Park by www.earthtrekkers.com
Where to stay in Petrified Forest National Park
Best hotels in Petrified Forest National Park:
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GreenTree Inn (budget hotel)
GreenTree Inn in Holbrook, Arizona is a great choice for those visiting Petrified Forest National Park. The rooms are clean and comfortable, equipped with air conditioning and flat-screen TVs, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. Plus, they offer free WiFi throughout, making it easy to plan your next adventure.
The hotel provides convenient amenities like free parking and a fitness center if you're looking to get some exercise. There's also a business center for any work needs. The staff is friendly and happy to share local recommendations. Located just off Interstate 40 and close to local attractions, it’s a great spot for travelers who want a comfortable and affordable place to stay. Just note, there's no pool, which might be a downside for some guests.
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La Quinta Inn & Suites (medium range hotel)
La Quinta Inn & Suites in Holbrook is a convenient option for those exploring Petrified Forest National Park, just a short drive away from the park. The hotel is well-maintained with clean, comfortable rooms, making it a solid choice for your stay.
A standout feature is the complimentary breakfast, offering a variety of options like oatmeal, bagels, and potatoes to start your day. The staff is friendly and ready to assist with any needs. Rooms include useful amenities such as a fridge, microwave, and comfortable beds. There’s also free WiFi available throughout the hotel, and a fitness center for unwinding after a day of hiking. Since it’s a popular choice, booking early during peak season is a good idea.
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