Petrified Forest National Park

Don't be afraid! This expansive park covers 230 square miles of Arizona desert, extending into the badlands and the Painted Desert. The Petrified Forest is famous for its fossilized trees, which fell about 225 million years ago. There's also spectacular colored rocks, a result of the Chinle Formation. Hike, sightsee and photograph your way through this unique landscape of grandiose geology.

Hiking and backpacking abound but beware of the region's high altitude and dry, windy climate. For some of the best backcountry trails in the country, head to Red Basin or Martha's Butte. Grab a backcountry permit and wander at will. If you're new to the hiking game, book a guided hike and let the experts lead you to the best vistas around. Backcountry camping within the park itself is your best bet for lodging, but if all that open space sounds a little, dare we say...petrifying, nearby private campgrounds are available. There's also good camping in Canyon de Chelly National Monument and El Morro National Monument.

The colorful geology and unusual trees are enough to keep any hiker happy. There's also abundant local flora and fauna. Beautiful grasses, including sacaton and blue gramma, fill the land. Coyotes, bobcats, and hundreds of species of birds also call this region home.

The petrified forest has a long history of indigenous use and is situated within Navajo and Apache counties. Enjoy the archaeological sites, including petroglyphs, that fill the area. Keep in mind the history of the land, and be careful not to touch or take anything you find.