Blue Mesa Trail
A steep badlands loop among blue, purple and gray bentonite hills and exposed petrified wood.
Route overview
Blue Mesa Trail in Arizona.
From the Blue Mesa sun shelter the trail drops from the rim into sculpted Chinle Formation badlands, passing fossil-bearing layers and scattered petrified logs before climbing back.
Trail facts
- Country
- United States
- Region
- Arizona
- Distance
- 1.6 km
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Elevation gain
- Not published by official source
- Best season
- Check current official seasonal access and conditions
- Trail type
- Loop
Safety context
The opening descent and final climb are steep. Bentonite becomes exceptionally slick and damaging when wet; avoid the route during rain, ice or active monsoon storms and do not climb the badland slopes. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
The opening descent and final climb are steep. Bentonite becomes exceptionally slick and damaging when wet; avoid the route during rain, ice or active monsoon storms and do not climb the badland slopes.
Highlights
Blue Mesa Trail, Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona hiking, Painted Desert, NPS trail
Why find a buddy
Best for partners comfortable with a short but steep descent and climb. Match on traction, heat tolerance, photography stops and a strict no-off-trail rule.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.