Photo by Marge Post/NPS

Hikers along the Crystal Forest Trail.

One of the best ways to enjoy and experience Petrified Forest National Park is on foot. Maintained trails range in length from one-third mile to almost three miles.

You can also hike in the trail-less Wilderness Area, as a day hike or on an overnight backpacking trip.

Stay on designated trails in developed hiking areas. Off-trail hiking damages the fragile grassland environment and disturbs wildlife habitat, creating unsightly "social" trails. Leaving the designated trail can also be hazardous for hikers due to loose rock and dangerous cliffs.

Pets must be kept on leash and are allowed on maintained trails. Pets are not permitted in the park buildings or in Wilderness Areas; this regulation does not include service animals, of course.