Escalante Petrified Forest State Park Guide
Ancient Trees Turned to Stone: Explore Escalante Petrified Forest Guide
Escalante Petrified Forest State Park offers a fascinating glimpse into the prehistoric past, showcasing a remarkable collection of petrified wood. Millions of years ago, this area was a lush forest, but volcanic activity and sedimentation transformed the trees into colorful, fossilized stone. Today, visitors can explore the park's trails, marvel at the petrified logs, and learn about the geological processes that created this unique landscape. The petrified wood in Escalante Petrified Forest State Park dates back to the late Jurassic period, approximately 150 million years ago. During this time, the area was covered in dense forests of conifers and other trees. Volcanic eruptions buried the trees under layers of ash and sediment, which prevented them from decaying. Over time, minerals from the surrounding soil seeped into the wood, replacing the organic material with silica and other minerals, resulting in the stunning petrified wood we see today. Visitors to Escalante Petrified Forest State Park can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking, camping, and picnicking. The Petrified Forest Trail is a short, easy loop that winds through the heart of the petrified forest, allowing you to get up close and personal with the colorful logs. The Sleeping Rainbows Trail is a longer, more challenging hike that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The park also features a small museum with exhibits on the geology and history of the area. Fishing and boating are available at Wide Hollow Reservoir, located within the park.
Transportation
Escalante Petrified Forest State Park is located just west of the town of Escalante, Utah, along Highway 12. The park entrance is well-signed and easily accessible. From Escalante, drive approximately 1 mile west on Highway 12. The park entrance will be on your right.
Ticket Price
Entrance fee required for Escalante Petrified Forest State Park.