Hiking The Petrified Forest and Sleeping Rainbow Trails At Escalante Petrified Forest State Park
Escalante Petrified Forest State Park is located in southern Utah.
We needed a place to dump and fill up water between our boondocking spots at Bryce Canyon National Park and Capitol Reef National Park and this state park fit the bill.
The park is known for its stunning collection of petrified wood so we decided to hike the two trails they have to see what we could find.
The Petrified Forest Trail is a one-mile loop. You can do that trail by itself or add the Sleeping Rainbow Trail which is a 0.75-mile loop. The Petrified Forest Trail is considered moderate and the Sleeping Rainbow Trail is considered strenuous.
Most of the petrified wood is seen on the Sleeping Rainbow Trail so I highly recommend hiking the trail if you can.
The Petrified Forest Trail is an interpretive trail and you can pick up a guide for it at the office. The guide gives you information about the geology of the trail.
Look for the markers as you hike and refer to the guide for more information.
The trails are well-marked and maintained, ensuring a pleasant hiking experience. Hikers will be able to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area while traversing the trail.
The Petrified Forest Trail begins with some steep switchbacks but eventually levels out.
The Sleeping Rainbow trail has some steep inclines and descents so be prepared for a workout. It is also a rockier and more primitive trail so watch where you step.
Also, be sure to wear a really good pair of hiking shoes. There is an abundance of loose stones and sand and even with my good Chacos on I slipped quite a lot.
Please, do not remove any petrified wood from the park. It is illegal and you could get a fine if caught. Take only pictures, leave only footprints
This is a nice hike through Juniper trees and a great opportunity to see a bunch of petrified wood. Learn about the geology of the area and have some fun during your visit to the park.
