You Can Explore An Ancient 'Rainbow' Tree Grove At This Park In Utah
If you want to turn your adventures up a notch, this destination will fill your day with wonder. Escalante Petrified Forest State Park in Utah is a surreal escape filled with dazzling colors and living historical relics. You can get your daily dose of 'wow' on your next road trip.
Escalante Petrified Forest State Park is just under a five-hour drive from Salt Lake City, making it the perfect day time adventure.
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Inside the park, you can find colorful petrified wood pieces in any direction you look.
The winding trails will lead you through stunning forests filled with pieces of the Earth's past.
There are multiple trails, including the Petrified Forest trail, which runs in a one-mile loop.
Entry fees only cost $8, and you can even camp in the nearby sites for a unique night under the stars.
Camping costs range from $25 - $85, with three different areas to choose from, including a group site.
According to the Forest Park brochure, the petrified remains were caused by a flood that buried the trees 135 to 155 million years ago.
Due to a lack of oxygen and flooding of groundwater under the mud, their cells were altered.
This process left behind the colorful pieces you can see today.
The website also notes that visitors should only leave with photographs because "Some say the petrified wood is haunted and removing a piece brings the taker nothing but bad luck."
Yikes. No souvenirs from the forest then!
You can find this magical spot just two miles away from the small town of Escalante to the northwest along State Route 12.
If you love surreal expeditions mixed with a little history, you will want to check this place out ASAP.
Escalante Petrified Forest State Park
Price: $8
Address: 710 N. Reservoir Rd., Escalante, UT
Why You Need To Go: You can explore these incredible forests from millions of years ago that offer pastel colors and dreamy landscapes.
We strongly advise that before you go swimming or visit any location, you check the most recent updates on potential hazards, security, water quality, and closures. If you do plan to visit a location, respect the environment.