Petrified Tree

Overview

A curiosity with big backstory, the Petrified Tree is a fenced, upright redwood trunk on a short spur road near Tower Junction. It’s the lone survivor of a once-notorious trio—two others were hauled off by souvenir hunters decades ago—so today it’s protected behind a fence. Expect a quick look, a few signs, and a neat window into Yellowstone’s deep past.

How It Came To Be

About 50 million years ago (Eocene), slurries of mud, ash, and rock from the Absaroka volcanoes raced across this landscape, burying living forests. Mineral-rich groundwater later permineralized the wood, preserving fine cellular details. Research on similar eruptions shows trees can be transported and then buried upright—explaining why Yellowstone’s fossil forests include standing stumps like this one.

What You’ll See

• A stout, upright petrified redwood trunk behind a protective fence, plus interpretive signs that explain the geology.
• A super-short walk from the small lot—most visits are 5–15 minutes.
• Occasional wildlife in the surrounding meadows; keep your distance and never approach.

Make It Worth the Stop

Pair this quick peek with the nearby Lost Lake Trail, which starts from the same parking area and makes a scenic loop through forest and sagebrush meadows. If you’re into photos, plan for quick context shots over the fence and bring a longer lens if you’re hoping for wildlife.

Wildlife Notes

The area sees regular wildlife—bison, coyotes, and both black and grizzly bears have been reported. Stay alert, make noise on trails, carry bear spray, and give all animals plenty of space.

Practicalities

• Parking: Small lot at the end of a short spur; it fills fast and is tight for RVs. High turnover, but you may need to wait. Some visitors report RVs using a separate area with a longer walk.
• Services: No restrooms or picnic tables here; plan your bathroom stop at major junctions/lodges nearby.
• Pets: Pets aren’t allowed on trails here.

Best Time to Visit

The spur is accessible by car when the road is open. To dodge the crunch, come early morning or late day; midafternoons are typically the busiest. Weekdays are easier than weekends. Most people spend under 15 minutes—perfect as a quick leg-stretcher between Tower–Roosevelt and Lamar Valley.