Petrified Forest National Park

Operating Hours

• Park Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (MST)
  Note: Arizona does not observe Daylight Saving Time.

• Visitor Centers:

  • Painted Desert Visitor Center: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

  • Rainbow Forest Museum & Visitor Center: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

  • Painted Desert Inn National Historic Landmark: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

• Closed on: Thanksgiving Day (November 25) and Christmas Day (December 25)

💰 Entrance Fees

• Private Vehicle: $25 (valid for 7 days)

• Motorcycle: $20 (valid for 7 days)

• Individual (on foot or bike): $15 (valid for 7 days)

• Annual Park Pass: $45 (valid for 1 year)

• America the Beautiful Pass: $80 (covers entrance to all federal recreation sites)

📍 Directions

• North Entrance: Located approximately 26 miles east of Holbrook, AZ, at Exit 311 off Interstate 40.

• South Entrance: Approximately 20 miles southeast of Holbrook on US Highway 180.

🧭 Things to Do

• Hiking Trails: Explore trails such as Blue Mesa, Crystal Forest, and Long Logs Trail to witness ancient petrified wood and unique geological formations.

• Scenic Drives: Drive along the 28-mile Main Park Road to experience panoramic views of the Painted Desert and access various viewpoints.

• Visitor Centers & Museums: Visit the Painted Desert Visitor Center and Rainbow Forest Museum to learn about the park's history, geology, and paleontology.

• Historic Sites: Discover archaeological sites like Puerco Pueblo and Agate House, built from petrified wood.

🌤️ Weather (Holbrook, AZ)

The park experiences a semi-arid climate with hot summers and cold winters. Summertime temperatures often exceed 100°F (38°C), while winter temperatures can drop below freezing. Visitors should be prepared for extreme temperatures and carry plenty of water.