Crystal Forest Trail
A compact loop through one of the park's richest displays of crystal-lined petrified logs.
Route overview
Crystal Forest Trail in Arizona.
The trail winds among colorful petrified wood deposits where quartz crystals are visible in broken log sections, offering a close geological experience without leaving a developed route.
Trail facts
- Country
- United States
- Region
- Arizona
- Distance
- 1.2 km
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Elevation gain
- Not published by official source
- Best season
- Check current official seasonal access and conditions
- Trail type
- Loop
Safety context
Leave every fragment in place and report resource theft. Although broad and paved, maximum grades and cross slopes exceed common accessibility standards; use caution with wheelchairs, strollers, heat and wind. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Leave every fragment in place and report resource theft. Although broad and paved, maximum grades and cross slopes exceed common accessibility standards; use caution with wheelchairs, strollers, heat and wind.
Highlights
Crystal Forest Trail, Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona hiking, Painted Desert, NPS trail
Why find a buddy
Ideal for geology-focused partners and families. Match around mobility needs, interpretive pace and zero-tolerance resource protection.
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.