How Long Is The Crystal Forest Trail?

Introducing the Crystal Forest Trail

The Crystal Forest Trail is located in Petrified Forest National Park in northeastern Arizona, about 20 miles from the north entrance off Interstate 40. The park protects one of the world’s largest and most colorful concentrations of petrified wood, and the Crystal Forest Trail offers a convenient loop for visitors to see these striking fossils up close.

The Crystal Forest Trail is roughly 1 mile long and circles through an area dense with petrified wood, where ancient logs and fragments in vivid hues of red, orange, and purple lie scattered across the badlands terrain. The Civilian Conservation Corps constructed the trail, along with a picnic area, in the 1930s to provide access to this “crystal forest” of petrified wood. The trail traverses the north end of the park’s designated wilderness area.

Today the paved and wheelchair-accessible Crystal Forest Trail remains one of the most popular hikes in Petrified Forest National Park. Its convenient loop layout and interpretive signs allow visitors to easily admire and learn about the park’s many examples of petrified wood up close. The striking logs and fragments scattered around the trail make this area a highlight of Petrified Forest National Park. The Crystal Forest Trail offers a family-friendly introduction to the park’s landscape and geology.

Trail Length and Duration

The Crystal Forest Trail is a 0.8 mile loop trail near Holbrook, Arizona in Petrified Forest National Park, according to the National Park Service Crystal Forest Trail page. It generally takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour to complete the hike, depending on pace.

AllTrails indicates the trail is 0.8 miles long and usually takes about 45 minutes to finish their loop Crystal Forest Trail, Arizona – 1514 Reviews, Map. The route is considered relatively easy.

According to a hike review on DWHike.com, the Crystal Forest loop is 0.8 miles total and took about 45 minutes to complete at an easy pace Petrified Forest National Park – Crystal Forest Trail (0.8 mile).

Trail Difficulty

The Crystal Forest Trail is considered an easy hiking route. According to AllTrails, the trail has a difficulty rating of 1 out of 5, with 5 being very challenging. The terrain is relatively flat and smooth along the route.

The trail is rated easy because there are minimal elevation changes. The highest point is around 5,740 feet and the lowest is 5,720 feet, for a total elevation gain of only 20 feet over the entire 0.8 mile loop. With such little climbing, the trail can be comfortably hiked by most ages and fitness levels.

Terrain and Route

The Crystal Forest Trail winds through colorful, otherworldly terrain in the northern region of Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona. The trail surface is sandy with some loose gravel, which can be slippery in spots, but it is mostly flat and easy to navigate. The trail passes by the park’s most concentrated collection of petrified logs, many made up of vibrantly hued quartz crystals.

After the trailhead, the path curves around a small hill covered in petrified wood fragments. The trail then opens up to a sprawling badlands landscape where you’ll spot whole fallen trees that shimmer in the sunlight. Some of the notable landmarks along the route include Rainbow Forest Museum, Jasper Forest, Agate Bridge, Crystal Forest itself, and Long Logs. The trail forms a 0.8 mile loop that begins and ends at the same trailhead parking area.

The various “forests” refer to the unique concentrations and colors of petrified wood in each area. At Jasper Forest, logs are tinted red from iron oxide. Rainbow Forest contains logs streaked in multi-colored quartz crystals. Crystal Forest is named for its sparkling clear quartz logs. And Long Logs, true to its name, is home to some of the longest intact petrified tree specimens in the park.

When to Hike

The best time to hike the Crystal Forest Trail is in the spring, fall, and winter. Spring (March through May) brings moderate temperatures and the possibility of wildflowers blooming along the trail. Fall (September through November) offers cool, mild weather and is less crowded. Winter months (December through February) can be brisk but offer solitude on the trail.

Summer brings extreme heat, with temperatures over 100°F being common June through August. Hiking is not recommended during these months due to the risk of heat stroke and dehydration. The park receives monsoon rains July through September which can cause flash flooding in slot canyons.

The Crystal Forest Trail and parking lot are open year-round, from sunrise to sunset. The main park road leading to the trailhead is not plowed in winter, so deep snow can cause closures from December through March. Always check the park’s website or call ahead for current conditions before visiting.

Permits and Regulations

The Crystal Forest Trail is located within Petrified Forest National Park, so hikers must abide by all park rules and regulations. No permits are required for day hiking, but overnight backpacking requires a free backcountry permit obtained at the Painted Desert Visitor Center.

All visitors must pay the entrance fee to access the park and trail. The current fee is $25 per vehicle for a 7-day pass. The annual pass is $45.

Please practice Leave No Trace ethics on the Crystal Forest Trail. Stay on marked trails to avoid damaging delicate geological formations and ancient petrified wood. Do not collect wood, rocks, plants, fossils, artifacts, or remove any natural materials. Respect wildlife and keep a safe distance.

Pets must be leashed at all times. Cycling and drones are prohibited on the trail. Be considerate of other hikers and keep noise to a minimum. Pack out all trash and waste.

Safety Considerations

The Crystal Forest Trail is relatively safe, but there are some hazards to be aware of. According to sources at Tripadvisor and AllTrails, some key safety considerations include:

– The trail is uneven in parts, so watch your footing to avoid tripping.

– The rocks can be slippery when wet, so hike with care after rain.

– Summer heat can be intense, so carry plenty of water, wear sun protection, and avoid hiking midday.

– Beware of snakes and scorpions along the trail.

– Let someone know your hiking plans and expected return time.

– There is no cell phone service in parts of the park, so do not rely on mobile phones.

Recommended gear and precautions:

– Sturdy hiking shoes with good traction.

– Trekking poles for stability.

– Sunglasses and sun protective clothing/hat.

– Ample drinking water and snacks.

– First aid kit.

– Insect repellent and long pants to avoid snake/scorpion bites.

– Flashlight if hiking near sunset.

– Bear spray as a precaution.

Taking basic safety precautions can ensure you have an enjoyable hike on the stunning Crystal Forest Trail.

Facilities and Services

The Crystal Forest Trail has basic facilities available for hikers, some located at the north gap parking lot near the trail entrance. There are vault toilets located in the parking lot that are kept stocked and cleaned regularly throughout the day (Crystal Forest Trail). For water, you’ll need to bring your own as there are no potable water sources at the trail or nearby. The north gap parking lot has approximately 30-40 parking spots for vehicles. If parking is full, overflow parking is located just north of the lot – follow the signs.

Cell service is unreliable throughout the park. There is no service at the Crystal Forest Trail parking lot or along the trail route. The nearest amenities like restaurants, gas stations, and stores are located in the town of Holbrook, about 26 miles south of the trail. Limited amenities like packaged snacks and maps are sold at the Rainbow Forest Museum and visitor center, 14 miles south of the parking lot.

Fees and Reservations

Accessing the Crystal Forest Trail within Petrified Forest National Park does require paying an entrance fee. As of 2023, the fee is $25 per vehicle, $20 per motorcycle, and $15 for individuals on bike or foot. These fees allow access for up to 7 consecutive days. Annual and lifetime passes are also available. Parking at the trailhead is included with the entrance fee. Overnight camping is allowed only in designated backcountry sites, which require a free permit obtained at the Visitor Center. Backcountry camping permits must be reserved at least 48 hours in advance, either by phone or in person at the Visitor Center. Only 15 permits are issued per night. Campsites have no water and vault toilets only. Fires are not permitted.

Tips for Hiking the Crystal Forest Trail

Planning and preparation are key for an enjoyable hike on the Crystal Forest Trail. Be sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes, bring plenty of water, and pack sun protection like a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately for the conditions.

Make sure your camera or phone is fully charged to capture the beautiful petrified wood along the trail. Tripods can help you take clear photos of the wood grains and crystal formations. Bring a picnic lunch or snacks to enjoy at one of the benches or scenic spots.

Take your time walking the loop trail and observing the fascinating petrified logs up close. Take care not to remove or disturb any specimens. Make sure children don’t climb on or break off pieces of the ancient crystal wood.

Stop at the Rainbow Forest Museum before or after your hike to learn more about the history and geology of the Crystal Forest. Their knowledgeable rangers can answer any questions you have.

Allow 1-2 hours to comfortably complete the fairly flat and easy 0.75 mile loop trail. Go early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat.