The area designated Petrified Forest National Park has been occupied on and off for over 2000 years. While best known for its scenic natural wonders, the park also has several fascinating cultural sites. Among these are Newspaper Rock Petroglyphs Archeological District which includes a significant collection of pre-Colombian Indian petroglyphs. A great variety of design elements is found inscribed on the rocks, including numerous human and animal forms. Also of note are Puerco Ruin and Petroglyphs, an Anasazi pueblo village compound (1250 to 1350 A.D.) containing over 100 rooms and kivas. Petroglyphs on the boulders lead to structures within the compound. Painted Desert Inn, a National Historic Landmark, is an original inn/trading post built in 1924 and rebuilt in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). The style of the building is heavily influenced by the dwellings of the Pueblo Indians and features beautiful painted murals by prominent Hopi artist Fred Kaboti. While no longer a functioning inn, the building is open for public tours.

Petrified Forest National Park's north entrance and the Visitors Center are situated between Navajo and Holbrook, Arizona, on I-40. The south entrance as well as the Rainbow Forest Museum are off US 180. A 28-mile drive traverses the park. The park is open daily from 8:00am to 5:00pm. Please call 928-524-6228, or visit the park's website for further information.

Credits and Sources:

National Park Service. "Discover Our Shared Heritage American Southwest, A National Register of Historic Places Travel Itinerary: List of Sites." http://www.nps.gov/nr/travel/amsw/sitelist.htm.