Blue Mesa

A pedestal log balances at Blue Mesa at twilight.

NPS Photo/Andrew V Kearns

Quick Facts

Location:

Blue Mesa is a significant landform located on a spur road halfway through Petrified Forest National Park.

Significance:

Spectacular blue, purple, and gray part of the Painted Desert. One of the favorite spots of the staff.

Amenities

9 listed

Benches/Seating, Bicycle - Rack, Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Parking - Auto, Picnic Table, Scenic View/Photo Spot, Shelter/Cabin, Trailhead, Wheelchair Accessible

Blue Mesa is a significant landform located on a spur road halfway through Petrified Forest National Park. The road (~5 miles round trip) goes on top of the mesa with scenic overlooks of the landscape, badlands, trail, and hoodoos. The trailhead for Blue Mesa Trail is located halfway around the loop road at a sunshelter. The mesa consists of the Blue Mesa and Sonsela Members with petrified wood deposits. Spectacular views of blue, purple, gray, and peach banded badlands.