109: Exploring Petrified Forest National Park: Best Tips + Activities

Alright, buckle up friends, because we're diving headfirst into the quirky charm of Petrified Forest National Park! Let’s forget those big-name parks for a minute and talk about this hidden gem that deserves to be more than just a pit stop on your Route 66 adventure. 

This is such a cool park but it is often overlooked. We're here to spill all the secrets and share why this park is absolutely worth visiting and everything that makes it so cool! 

Here’s what we’ll cover:

• The colors of the Painted Desert and how they'll make you feel like you're in a Kung Fu movie
• The iconic Route 66 pullout, where you can literally stand on a piece of Americana and snap a pic with a vintage Studebaker
• The lowdown on Holbrook, Arizona, the ultimate Route 66 town, and why it's basically Radiator Springs in real life (plus, John's genius diner idea!)
• The Blue Mesa trail, where you can hike through a landscape of blue badlands and petrified wood (just watch the clock!)
• The secret to exploring the Jasper Forest off-the-beaten-path routes and why you need to grab a map from the visitor center

Petrified Forest is a park that demands a little extra attention, but trust us, it’s worth it. There really is something for everyone at this park! And hey, if you’re feeling inspired to open that Route 66/Pulp Fiction/Cars diner, you know where to find us! 

Your task for today: Tell us what you are more excited about when you go to Petrified Forest? Is it the Route 66 experience or the petrified wood? Head over to the Dirt In My Shoes Facebook or Instagram page and let us know! 

For a full summary of this episode, links to things we mentioned, and free resources/deals to get your trip planning started, check out the full show notes here.