Guided Activities

Guided Hike below Pintado Point into the Painted Desert

NPS

Guided Activities

The year 2024 gives a new beginning to possible activities. We featured our popular backcountry hikes, touch tables at the museum, plaza, and on trails, and the paleo demo lab continues to connect scientists with the public. Be sure to check our social media pages (scroll down on any page to the links on the lower right) for information and events. Also, watch for roving rangers and volunteers in areas like Puerco Pueblo and Crystal Forest for on-the-spot information including show and tell items to share!

 

Star Party!
July 4
8:15pm
Painted Desert Inn Parking Lot

Explore the dark skies inside the park with a Ranger! Meet a park ranger at the North Entrance Gate parking lot (I-40 Exit 311) at 8:15pm. The park entrance receipt or park pass must be shown. Park entry must be purchased prior to the star party. Program location: Painted Desert Inn parking lot.

Star party free with national park pass or entrance fee
Access to star party location only
Access to the rest of the park is prohibited
Light jacket, water, headlight, and closed toed shoes recommended

Star event may be cancelled due to weather. For more information or reservations, contact Victoria Philpott e-mail us

 

Ranger Program at Giant Logs, people gathered around a petrified log with a ranger.

NPS/Hallie Larsen

Discover Rangers and Volunteers in the Park!

Keep your eyes open for one of our Interpreters out on the trails, the plaza, museum, or at overlooks. We love to answer questions and share the park's many stories. You might find us with touch tables, too!

 

Dig with a paleontologist

NPS

Petrified Forest Field Institute, a Park Partner

Petrified Forest Field Institute--offered by the non-profit museum association--is proud to offer guided tours and field classes exploring fun and compelling subjects lead by world class guides and experts. https://www.petrifiedforestfieldinstitute.org/ This is not a government website or institution.

 

Cellist at Blue Mesa

NPS

Artist-in-Residence Program

In the Artist-in-Residence Program selected artists spend time living and working in the park, sharing their experiences with visitors.

 

Cultural Demonstrators Montage

NPS

Cultural Demonstration Program

The Cultural Demonstration Program at Petrified Forest National Park provides local artisans with the opportunity to share their cultural and historical connections to the region with park visitors.