Petrified National Forest

I wanted to share our vacation in order of activity, but it's not happening that way. It's all fun none the less. lol! Plus, with the the weather turning to snow again this weekend, AFTER a couple of 70 degree days, I need to revisit these photos to make me feel warm!!

As I had mentioned before, we took the time to visit the Petrified National Forest and Painted Desert. An amazing sight to see! I cannot remember how big the park really is but the driving part is a little less than 50 miles in length I think. It's beautiful and full of surprising History. To
think that this now barren desert used to be home to trees in every direction is awesome.

Izzy 'N Emmy, PNF, Arizona, March 2009

Emmy, PFN, Arizona, March 2009

Izzy, PNF, Arizona, March 2009

There are several little stops along the trail. Some point out various points in the Painted Desert (which I'll write about soon) and others lead into forests such as these. This one was the Crystal Forest and is one of the most dense areas of petrified wood. Most of the wood has turned to crystal, brilliant colors and smooth textures. It is estimated that this wood is from the Triassic Period, a little over 200 million years ago.

Izzy 'N Emmy had a nice time getting out and running the this forest. The stumps and logs were so much bigger than they were, not to mention so heavy! There are lots of little pieces lying around, but again, it's against the law to remove ANYTHING from this park. They actually search you and your vehicle when you leave. We saw a lot of the park but we missed out on getting into some of the best areas to walk around in. Traveling with kids sometimes has it downfalls. I do hope to venture back next year and venture into some of the other parts. Me and my lens would have a field day!

So, if you are ever in the area, we would recommend this as a nice day of fun with some fantastic photo opportunity's. Just make sure you were nice walking shoes! lol!

Other views of this forest and more facts can be found here, here and here.

More of our photos from this journey can be found over in FLICKR! Enjoy!