Petrified Forest National Park: Ancient Trees & Stunning Landscapes
January 2022 // Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
Camera:
Sony α6000
Lenses:
Sony E 55-210mm F4.5-6.3 Lens
Sony E PZ 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS Lens (SELP1650) *discontinued, link is for renewed version
Locations:
Petrified Forest National Park
Jasper Forest
The Tepees
Painted Desert Inn
Route 66
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Petrified Forest National Park had never been on my list of places to visit. But when I found myself on another cross-country drive, the landscape was too beautiful to ignore. The park is home to one of the largest and most colorful collections of petrified wood in the world, with logs that date back over 200 million years.
My only regret was that my visit was far too short - I spent only about two hours in the park before needing to continue to my next destination. I barely scratched the surface of what there is to see, from the stunning Painted Desert to ancient petroglyphs left behind by past civilizations. I was lucky enough to spot a few ravens, but the park is also home to pronghorn, jackrabbits, and even the occasional bobcat.
If you’re a fan of striking landscapes, rich history, and unique geological wonders, Petrified Forest National Park is well worth a visit. Beyond the fossilized trees, the park offers sweeping desert views, vibrant badlands, and some of the most well-preserved petroglyphs in the Southwest. It’s also one of the least crowded national parks, making it perfect for those who love quiet, immersive experiences in nature.
I’m looking forward to planning a trip back to this area, taking the time to explore some of the trails, and photographing Agate House - a partially reconstructed pueblo built entirely of petrified wood. Next time, I’ll make sure to linger longer.
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