Wilderness Loop
A substantial cross-country loop through multiple petrified forests in the park's designated wilderness.
Route overview
Wilderness Loop in Arizona.
The approximate route visits several fossil-log concentrations eroding from the Black Forest Bed, providing solitude and a broad view of the northern high-desert wilderness.
Trail facts
- Country
- United States
- Region
- Arizona
- Distance
- 11.3 km
- Difficulty
- Hard
- Elevation gain
- Not published by official source
- Best season
- Check current official seasonal access and conditions
- Trail type
- approximate backcountry route
Safety context
This is not a maintained loop despite its name. Obtain the NPS guide, track the route independently, carry one gallon / 3.8 L of water per person per summer day and avoid storms, floods, wet clay and darkness. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
This is not a maintained loop despite its name. Obtain the NPS guide, track the route independently, carry one gallon / 3.8 L of water per person per summer day and avoid storms, floods, wet clay and darkness.
Highlights
Wilderness Loop, Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona hiking, Painted Desert, NPS trail
Why find a buddy
Designed for experienced wilderness buddies who share navigation duties, water planning and a strict no-separation 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.