Petrified National Park: Self-Guided Driving Discovery Tour

Step into a world frozen in time at Petrified National Park’s self-guided driving discovery tour. This captivating journey through the Arizona desert offers a glimpse into an ancient era, where petrified wood and fossils tell a tale of the past. With its breathtaking vistas and awe-inspiring attractions, this tour promises an adventure like no other.

Begin your expedition at the Painted Desert Visitor Center, where the Action Tour Guide app awaits, ready to guide you through the wonders of the park. From Toponi Point to the Jasper Forest, each stop along the way will leave you spellbound.

Conclude your expedition at the Rainbow Forest Museum, where the history and beauty of Petrified National Park come to life. Embark on this self-guided driving tour and unlock the secrets of this extraordinary natural wonder.

Good To Know

• Free cancellation available, allowing for flexibility in travel plans
• Tour can be reserved now and paid for later, providing convenience
• Experience an ancient world preserved in stone and explore the unique beauty of petrified wood
• The tour includes a link to download the Action Tour Guide app, which offers an audio guide, location-aware map, and storyteller in one app.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Booking Information

To book your self-guided driving tour of Petrified National Park, simply reserve your spot without payment today. With the free cancellation policy, you have the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This allows you to keep your travel plans flexible and worry-free.

No need to worry about payment now, as you can pay later when you confirm your reservation. Take advantage of this opportunity to explore an ancient world preserved in stone at your own pace. Discover the unique beauty of petrified wood and learn about the abundant fossils of this remarkable landscape. Enjoy the formation of this unique region as you venture through the park.

Reserve now, pay later, and embark on an unforgettable adventure in Petrified National Park.

Highlights and Activities

Visitors to Petrified National Park can experience a range of highlights and activities, seeing an ancient world preserved in stone. The park is renowned for its petrified wood preservation, providing a unique opportunity to witness the stunning transformation of ancient trees into beautiful mineralized fossils.

As visitors explore the park, they’ll also encounter an abundance of fossils, offering a glimpse into the prehistoric ecosystems that once thrived in this region. From vast desert vistas to fascinating rock formations, Petrified National Park offers a spectacle of nature that’s both awe-inspiring and educational.

Whether hiking through the Jasper Forest and Crystal Forest trails or marveling at the panoramic views from Toponi Point, visitors are sure to be captivated by the natural wonders and rich history found within this remarkable park.

Tour Details

Immersing themselves in an ancient world preserved in stone, visitors to Petrified National Park can embark on a self-guided driving discovery tour that offers a captivating exploration of the park’s unique features and rich history. The tour begins at the Painted Desert Visitor Center and takes approximately four hours to complete, covering a distance of 28 miles. To enhance the experience, visitors are encouraged to download the Action Tour Guide app, which provides an audio guide, location-aware map, and storyteller all in one app. This allows visitors to learn about the park’s abundant fossils, the formation of the unique region, and the fascinating rock formations along the way. The app also includes a link to download the tour, which has no expiration date and is valid for life. With its informative audio guide features and flexible tour duration, the self-guided driving discovery tour offers an adventurous and immersive experience for all visitors.

Tour Details
Tour Duration	Approximately 4 hours
Audio Guide Features	Informative narration, location-aware map, and storyteller
Starting Point	Painted Desert Visitor Center
Tour Route Highlights	– Toponi Point: Panoramic views of the Painted Desert
	– Painted Desert Inn: National Historic Landmark
	– Puerco Pueblo: Ancient 100-room pueblo
	– Newspaper Rock: Over 650 petroglyphs
	– The Tepees: Fascinating rock formations
	– Blue Mesa: Blue-hued badlands and petrified wood
	– Jasper Forest and Crystal Forest trails
	– Rainbow Forest Museum: Tour conclusion
Action Tour Guide App	– Downloadable app with audio guide features
	– No expiration date, valid for life

Painted Desert Visitor Center

The Painted Desert Visitor Center serves as the starting point for visitors embarking on the self-guided driving discovery tour of Petrified National Park. This visitor center offers a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all. Whether you need information about the park, want to grab a snack, or use the restroom facilities, the visitor center has you covered.

You can also browse through the exhibits that showcase the natural and cultural history of the park. Learn about the formation of the petrified wood, marvel at the abundant fossils found in the area, and gain a deeper understanding of the unique beauty of this ancient landscape.

The visitor center is a gateway to the wonders that await you in Petrified National Park.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Puerco Pueblo and Newspaper Rock

At Puerco Pueblo and Newspaper Rock, visitors can explore ancient ruins and view over 650 petroglyphs.

Here are four things you need to know about these fascinating sites:

1) Puerco Pueblo: This historical site holds great significance as it showcases the remnants of an ancient 100-room pueblo. Visitors can marvel at the intricate architecture and imagine the lives of the Native American people who once called this place home.

2) Newspaper Rock: This unique rock formation is adorned with hundreds of petroglyphs, providing a glimpse into the rich Native American culture of the past. These ancient carvings tell stories and depict sacred symbols, offering a fascinating window into the traditions and beliefs of the people who inhabited this land long ago.

3) Historical Significance: Both Puerco Pueblo and Newspaper Rock offer valuable insights into the history and heritage of the region. They serve as a reminder of the ancient civilizations that once thrived here, leaving behind a lasting legacy for us to explore and appreciate.

4) Ancient Architecture: Puerco Pueblo showcases remarkable architectural feats, with its intricate masonry and carefully planned rooms. It offers a unique opportunity to witness the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the Native American people who constructed these impressive structures.

Visiting Puerco Pueblo and Newspaper Rock isn’t only an adventure into the past but also a chance to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of the area.

Tepees and Blue Mesa

Visitors can explore the unique rock formations of the Tepees and the contrasting blue-hued badlands and petrified wood of the Blue Mesa while driving through Petrified National Park.

The Tepees, named for their resemblance to Native American tipis, are towering rock formations that have been shaped by erosion over millions of years. These formations are composed of colorful layers of sedimentary rock, creating a stunning visual display.

As visitors continue their journey, they’ll come across the Blue Mesa, where they’ll be greeted by a striking landscape of blue-hued badlands and petrified wood. The blue color is a result of minerals in the sediment, while the petrified wood preservation is a testament to the park’s rich geological history.

The formation of the badlands is a fascinating process, involving the erosion of soft clay and siltstone layers, leaving behind unique formations and vivid colors.

This self-guided driving tour allows visitors to witness the wonders of nature and learn about the preservation of petrified wood and the formation of badlands.

Jasper Forest and Rainbow Forest Museum

Located along the self-guided driving tour of Petrified National Park, visitors can further explore the fascinating geological wonders of the Jasper Forest and enjoy the rich history of the Rainbow Forest Museum.

1. Geological significance: The Jasper Forest is a vast area filled with petrified wood, showcasing the incredible preservation of ancient trees that existed over 200 million years ago. It’s a testament to the unique geological processes that occurred in this region.

2. Petrified wood preservation: The Jasper Forest is home to a remarkable collection of petrified logs, which have been transformed into solid stone over time. These logs provide valuable insights into the ancient ecosystems and climate of the area.

3. Rainbow Forest Museum: The museum offers a wealth of information about the park’s geological wonders and the process of petrification. Visitors can view a variety of exhibits and displays that showcase the diverse flora and fauna that once thrived in this ancient landscape.

4. Historical significance: The Rainbow Forest Museum also delves into the rich human history of the area, highlighting the cultural significance of the petrified wood to Native American tribes and early explorers. It provides a deeper understanding of the park’s importance and its connection to the past.

Common Questions

How Long Does the Petrified National Park Self-Guided Driving Tour Typically Take?

The average duration of the self-guided driving tour at Petrified National Park is approximately 3-4 hours. It is recommended to start early in the morning to make the most of the day and avoid crowds.

Are There Any Accommodations or Restaurants Available Within the Park?

Accommodation options and dining options within the park are limited. Visitors are encouraged to plan accordingly and bring their own food and supplies for a scenic picnic or enjoy a meal at nearby restaurants outside the park.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Limitations for Participating in the Self-Guided Driving Tour?

There are no age restrictions or limitations for participating in the self-guided driving tour at Petrified National Park. It is a family-friendly adventure that allows everyone to explore the park’s unique beauty and learn about its fascinating history.

Can I Bring My Own Car or Do I Have to Rent One for the Tour?

You can bring your own car for the tour or rent one if you prefer. Either way, you’ll have the freedom to explore the wonders of Petrified National Park at your own pace and in your own vehicle.

Are There Any Guided Tours Available in Addition to the Self-Guided Driving Tour?

Yes, there are guided tour options available in addition to the self-guided driving tour. These guided tours provide expert knowledge and a more immersive experience. However, the self-guided tour offers flexibility and the freedom to explore at your own pace.

The Sum Up

To sum it up, the self-guided driving discovery tour of Petrified National Park is an exciting and immersive experience for nature enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

With its stunning desert vistas, petrified wood, and abundant fossils, the park offers a glimpse into an ancient world preserved in stone.

From the Painted Desert Visitor Center to the Rainbow Forest Museum, each stop along the tour provides a unique and awe-inspiring adventure.

Don’t miss out on this must-do tour when visiting Petrified National Park.

You can check if your dates are available here: