The Petrified Forest National Park located near Flagstaff, Arizona is a location known for its beauty and diversity. Although the "forest" is one of trees, these trees are no longer standing tall and lush but are rather lying on their sides in the park area. The fact is these trees offer some of the most unique markings of bright, beautiful colors that inspire anyone to wonder about them. There are two areas of the Petrified Forest to explore: the north, called the Painted Desert, and the south, called Petrified Wood.
The Painted Desert is actually about 27 miles long. On either side of your vehicle, you will see basic, empty grasslands and not much more. The closest town is that of Holbrook which is still 26 miles away to the west. At the north end of this street, there is a visitor's center and at the other is a small museum to visit. The Painted Desert is towards the north and there are 8 viewpoints where rolling multicolored areas dot the horizon. The Black Forest is located here, which is a location that offers a large amount of Petrified Wood.
In the south is Petrified Wood. One thing to notice is that of the Indian Ruin called Puerco Pueblo which has some 76 rooms which can be toured. Newspaper Rock is also found here which is a sandstone outcrop that offers many petroglyphs from about 1000 A. D.
Visitors to the region will find guidance and information available in the local visitor's center. While it may not sound interesting, these amazing and historic locations are well worth the drive.
