Onyx Bridge Trail

Why hike it

If you want Petrified Forest beyond the boardwalks, this is the ticket. The Onyx Bridge route drops from the Painted Desert rim into colorful badlands and follows washes to the remains of a once‑spanning petrified log. Expect solitude, big sky, and a whole lot of fossilized wood underfoot.

The gist

Plan on roughly 4–5 miles total (we estimate about 4.5 miles round trip), with around 300 feet of descent and re‑ascent. It’s an out‑and‑back, but not a signed or maintained trail—more a waypoint‑guided route. The navigation and exposure make it moderately challenging.

Route overview

Start at Painted Desert Inn (near Kachina Point). From the side opposite the flagpole, descend steep, loose switchbacks onto the desert floor. Immediately below the rim you’ll weave among small, vivid red hills sprinkled with groves of petrified wood—already a highlight. Continue across badlands benches and into broad washes. Many hikers follow the unmistakably wide Lithodendron Wash for a stretch, then make a key left into a narrow side drainage that’s easy to miss as the main wash curves away—bring the NPS waypoints or a GPX you trust. The destination, Onyx Bridge, is the dark petrified log that once bridged a wash; it’s now fractured but still photogenic and geologically fascinating. Some hikers report petroglyphs on a short detour along the way, but don’t count on them without solid directions.

What you’ll see

Classic Painted Desert layers in reds, purples, and grays; sprawling badlands; and “countless” wood fragments leading to the bridge area. It’s a true wilderness feel beyond the initial descent: little to no signage, no water, and minimal shade.

Best time to hike

Spring and fall are the sweet spot—cooler temps and lower heat risk. Summer can be dangerously hot; avoid midday. Winter can work, but bring layers for cold wind and occasional ice on the switchbacks. Early morning or late afternoon brings kinder light on the banded hills.

Tips and honesty

• Navigation matters: use NPS waypoints or a reliable GPX and pay attention to that subtle left into the side drainage after the wash bends.
• Footing: the rim switchbacks have loose gravel; sturdy shoes help.
• Essentials: full sun protection, plenty of water, and self‑reliance—cell service is spotty to none.
• Leave No Trace: do not collect or move petrified wood or disturb archaeological sites.
• Pets are allowed on leash. Amenities (parking, restrooms, water, picnic tables) are at Painted Desert Inn before you drop in.

If you want to go farther, some hikers extend toward Angel’s Garden via the same wash network, but that’s a longer day and ups the navigation stakes.