Last updated: March 20, 2021
Thing to Do
Walk Crystal Forest Trail
NPS Photo/Andrew V Kearns
Named for the presence of beautiful crystals that can be found in the petrified logs, this trail offers one of the best opportunities to experience the petrified wood deposits as it loops through rolling gray and purple badlands. Please leave the petrified wood for others to enjoy. Report any removal of petrified wood or other materials to park staff.
Details
Duration
20-120 Minutes
Depends on the individual's abilities and if looking at the wayside exhibits.
Activity
Front-Country Hiking
The trailhead is right by the large parking lot, the first section of trail going to a sunshelter where the loop of paved/graveled pathway begins through petrified wood.
Age(s)
All ages, depending on the individual's abilities.
Pets Allowed
Yes
BARK Ranger:
·Bag your pet’s poop.
·Always keep your pet on a leash.
·Respect wildlife.
·Know where you can go.
·Bag your pet’s poop.
·Always keep your pet on a leash.
·Respect wildlife.
·Know where you can go.
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Location
Crystal Forest Trail, Petrified Forest National Park
About 20 miles from the north entrance, 8 miles from the south entrance, there is a large parking lot for the trailhead of Crystal Forest.
Reservations
No
Season
Year Round
Time of Day
Day
Open during park hours.
Accessibility Information
Tread width: 71 in (179.8 cm), min 65 in (165.1 cm)
Grade: 5.2%, max 22.5%
Cross Slope: 2.2%, max 11.3%
Depending on the individual, most of this trail is accessible for mobility devices. The surface is hard, paved or graveled. Exhibits have proper contrast for visibility challenges.
Grade: 5.2%, max 22.5%
Cross Slope: 2.2%, max 11.3%
Depending on the individual, most of this trail is accessible for mobility devices. The surface is hard, paved or graveled. Exhibits have proper contrast for visibility challenges.