Have you ever imagined walking through a forest where the trees are no longer wood but colorful stone?

Escalante Petrified Forest State Park in southern Utah is a hidden gem with a unique mix of ancient history, hiking trails, and outdoor adventure.

This small park in Garfield County is packed with natural wonders, including petrified wood over 150 million years old. It is a perfect destination for a peaceful getaway with breathtaking views and fun activities.

Let's explore everything it has to offer.

What Makes Escalante Petrified Forest State Park Special?

Escalante Petrified Forest State Park was established in 1976 and covers 1,350 acres at an elevation of 5,900 feet.

The park is famous for its colorful petrified wood, formed millions of years ago when ancient trees were buried in sediment and slowly turned to stone.

Here's what makes this park a must-visit:

Petrified wood: The park's main attraction is the multicolored stone pieces, which showcase shades of red, yellow, black, and white.
Scenic hiking trails: The Petrified Forest Loop Trail and the Trail of Sleeping Rainbows will take you along the stunning views of the desert landscape.
Wide Hollow Reservoir: This reservoir is perfect for fishing, boating, and swimming.

The Petrified Wood: A Rainbow of Stone

One of the most fascinating things about this park is its petrified wood. Here is how it was created.

Millions of years ago, this area was a floodplain. When trees fell, they were buried under mud and sand. Mineral-rich water slowly seeped in, replacing the wood with quartz and turning it into colorful stone.

When you visit, you'll notice that the petrified wood comes in a variety of colors:

Red and orange hues come from iron.
Yellow and white tones are caused by silica.
Black and gray shades are due to carbon.

Walking the trails, you'll see these stone pieces scattered across the ground, each one telling a story of Earth's ancient past.

It's hard not to marvel at how nature can turn something as ordinary as a tree into such a beautiful relic.

Best Things to Do at Escalante Petrified Forest State Park

Hiking Trails in Escalante Petrified Forest State Park

If you enjoy hiking, the park has two main trails that let you explore its geological wonders up close.

Petrified Forest Loop Trail - This 1.1-mile loop trail is a moderate hike with some uphill sections. Along the way, you'll see plenty of petrified wood and get stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape.

Trail of Sleeping Rainbows - This 0.8-mile extension of the main trail is steeper and more challenging, but it's worth the effort. The Trail of Sleeping Rainbows is where you'll find the most vibrant petrified wood in the park.

Pro Tip: Wear sturdy hiking shoes, bring water, and take your time to enjoy the scenery. The trails are not too long but rocky in some areas.

Relax at Wide Hollow Reservoir

Wide Hollow Reservoir is a great place to relax or have fun in the water. Here, you can:

Fish for bass, bluegill, or trout.
Boat or canoe, rent one or bring your own.
Swim in the clear, cool water.
Picnic at shady tables by the shore.

This spot has something for everyone. Spend the day fishing, paddling, or enjoying lunch with a beautiful view.

Camping and Stargazing in the Park

If one day isn't enough, why not stay overnight? The park has a well-maintained campground with modern conveniences. You can pick between RV and tent sites with picnic tables and fire pits. Hot showers and restrooms make camping more comfortable.

The park is a great spot for stargazing. The clear skies at night reveal countless stars, and you may even see the Milky Way.

Fun Facts About Escalante Petrified Forest State Park

Here are a few interesting facts to know before your visit:

The petrified wood here is believed to be from conifer trees that lived 150 million years ago.
The park sits 5,900 feet above sea level, with cooler temperatures than lower desert areas.
The petrified wood's fossilization process took millions of years and involved water, minerals, and lots of time.

Why Visit Escalante Petrified Forest State Park?

If you're planning a trip to Utah, this park is a great addition to your itinerary. It's quieter and less crowded than the state's famous national parks, like Zion National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park, but just as fascinating in its own way.

Here's why you'll love it:

Geological wonders: Learn about the fascinating process of petrification.

Outdoor activities: Hike, fish, camp, or relax by the reservoir.

Family-friendly: The park is small and easy to navigate, making it perfect for both kids and adults.

Plan Your Visit to Escalante Petrified Forest State Park

Here are some tips to help you plan your trip:

Best time to visit: Spring and fall is the best time because of the weather. Summers can be hot, while winters are cooler but manageable.
What to bring: Water, sunscreen, sturdy shoes, and a camera.
Park rules: Don't take any petrified wood home. NO ROCKHOUNDING IS ALLOWED IN THE PARK

The park is open year-round, and the entrance fee is affordable, making it an easy stop on any southern Utah road trip.