Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona-Fancy Fashion Castle

I recently had some time to visit Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona. It’s an unexpected gem in the desert. I must admit, it’s never been at the top of my “must see” list but since I am trying to visit every National Park in the U.S. I wanted to stop by on our most recent road trip through Arizona. I am in the process of moving across the country (California to Michigan) and wanted to stop at some new places along the way. I actually made this drive twice in one month and this was during the second trip. During the first drive I stopped at White Sands National Park. Check that post out if you missed it!

I didn’t have the highest expectations when visiting this park just because I didn’t really know what to expect and photos don’t do it justice. I was pleasantly surprised after visiting, however. My favorite part of this park was one of the trails that we hiked. It’s called the Blue Mesa Trailhead. The trail was so amazing. The path goes through an area with lots of blue, purple, red, and white formations. The path itself is super curvy and hilly. I reminds me of a place that would be in a Dr. Seuss book. I also really loved seeing the petrified logs from ancient trees. They were so pretty. I hadn’t seen a lot of up-close photos of what they look like but they have basically been turned to stone and look like they crystalized. They are multicolored and beautiful. Another thing that you mush see is the petroglyphs that are carved into rocks. There is a little path that leads to them. You really shouldn’t miss them. If you ever get the chance to stop by this park, I highly suggest it.