Wilderness Loop

This is Petrified Forest’s choose-your-own-adventure. Starting from the historic Painted Desert Inn, you drop steeply off the rim and leave the crowds behind for a lollipop-style loop through the Painted Desert Wilderness. There’s no constructed tread or signage—just multi-hued badlands, big sky, and long views across the Chinle Formation. Expect abundant 200-million-year-old petrified wood scattered across open benches and washes, plus the eerie quiet only true backcountry delivers.

Plan on roughly 7–8.7 miles total (most hikers land around 8) with about 1,000 feet of cumulative gain between the rim descent and climb back out. Surfaces are a mix of sandy wash, rocky sections, and open desert. Landmarks along common variants include the Black Forest Bed, stretches of Lithodendron Wash, and features like the Flat Iron Panel; some hikers add a side trip to Onyx Bridge. Distance varies with the exact line you choose—there is no single “right” route.

Navigation is the main challenge. The park offers a useful Wilderness Route handout at the visitor center with photos and GPS points, and many hikers also bring their own GPS. You’ll almost certainly lose and re-find your line a few times—part of the fun if you like exploration, a deal-breaker if you don’t. Cell service is unreliable, there’s no water, and sun exposure is total. Wear sturdy footwear and carry more water than you think you need.

Who will love it: experienced hikers who want solitude, route-finding, and hands-on geology. Who won’t: casual strollers and anyone who needs a signed, straightforward path. If you want colorful badlands on an easy, marked trail instead, consider sticking to the shorter frontcountry walks and viewpoints—this loop is decidedly backcountry.

Best time to hike: fall and spring for moderate temperatures and safer conditions. Summer heat here is serious with virtually no shade; winter can be blustery or snowy. Start early—park hours (typically 8 am–5 pm) compress your hiking window.

Practical tips: pick up the handout at the visitor center, confirm current closures, pack sun protection, and practice strict Leave No Trace in this fragile landscape. Pets are allowed on leash. No permit is required for day hiking; a free permit is needed only for overnight wilderness trips. The Painted Desert Inn at the trailhead is a worthy historic stop before or after your hike.