Like a striking canvas, the Painted Desert builds layer upon layer of color on hills made of siltstone, mudstone, and shale. The resulting view highlights the region's name, alternating oranges, white, reds, and pinks. This badlands area was formed of volcanic rock and limestone revealed by erosion over the years. Drive through the region along a paved road that stretches over plateaus on Navajo land with many lookout points. Choose to start, finish, or center your holiday on a trip to Painted Desert by using our Petrified Forest National Park online vacation planner.
Painted Desert reviews
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I had about 3 hours so I made all the stops and enjoyed the other worldly scenery. It was like being in another planet. I was staying in Pine Top, AZ. I drove 1 hour to get there totally worthy.
I had about 3 hours so I made all the stops and enjoyed the other worldly scenery. It was like being in another planet. I was staying in Pine Top, AZ. I drove 1 hour to get there totally worthy. more »
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Although this site directs you to the Painted Desert, you'll see many posts about the Petrified Forest. Here's my take on the Pained Desert ... We had a fantastic day, driving from the Flagstaff...
Although this site directs you to the Painted Desert, you'll see many posts about the Petrified Forest. Here's my take on the Pained Desert ... We had a fantastic day, driving from the Flagstaff... more »
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We had a fantastic day, driving from the Flagstaff area, through Winslow on I-40, and north on HW 77 to the Painted Desert. I'll just let the pics do the explanation for you. The weather was perfect for a September afternoon, and I would encourage you to go in the off months like we did. Plenty of fairly level nature hikes available, or if you prefer ... LOTS of areas to pull over and just enjoy.
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Beautiful natural wonder, along Route 66 adjoining the Petrified National Park. It's a nice drive but there are plenty of short trails too. There's a lot of history here. Tale time to look at the petroglyphs and ancient structures. It is dog friendly.
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