Petrified Forest National Park and Zion National Park are two of America’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. Both parks offer a unique and unforgettable experience, but which one is the best for you? In this article, we will explore the similarities and differences between these two parks and help you decide which one to visit first. With breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and a rich history, Petrified Forest and Zion will leave you in awe and make you want to come back for more.
Petrified Forest National Park is located in northeastern Arizona and is home to one of the largest and most colorful concentrations of petrified wood in the world. The park is also home to a diverse array of wildlife, including pronghorns, coyotes, and rattlesnakes. The park’s vibrant colors and unique geological formations will leave you in awe.
Zion National Park, on the other hand, is located in southwestern Utah and is known for its towering cliffs, deep canyons, and breathtaking views. The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including mountain lions, black bears, and bighorn sheep. Whether you’re a hiker, a climber, or just a nature lover, Zion has something for everyone.
Hiking Trails in Petrified Forest National Park and Zion National Park
Petrified Forest National Park and Zion National Park are both popular destinations for outdoor enthusiasts and offer unique hiking experiences. Petrified Forest National Park is located in northeastern Arizona and is known for its fossilized trees and other geological formations. Zion National Park is located in southwestern Utah and is known for its towering red rock cliffs and narrow canyons.
In Petrified Forest National Park, the easiest hike is the Giant Logs Trail, which is a 0.3-mile boardwalk trail that takes visitors past some of the park’s largest petrified logs. The longest and most challenging hike in the park is the Blue Mesa Trail, which is a 6-mile round-trip hike that takes visitors through a badlands landscape.
In Zion National Park, the easiest hike is the Riverside Walk, a 2.2-mile round-trip trail that takes visitors along the Virgin River to the foot of the park’s famous cliffs. For more experienced hikers, the toughest trail in the park is the Angels Landing Trail, a 5.4-mile round-trip hike that takes visitors to the top of a 1,488-foot rock formation with spectacular views of the surrounding canyons. In addition, the Narrows Trail is another challenging hike, which is a 9.4-mile round-trip hike that takes visitors through a narrow slot canyon.
Most Popular Hiking Trails in Petrified Forest National Park
| Name | Length | Elevation | Type | Difficulty | Visitor Ratings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Mesa Trail | 1448.406 | 32.9184 | Easy | loop | 4.5 |
| Crystal Forest Trail | 1448.406 | 10.9728 | Easy | loop | 4.5 |
| Painted Desert Rim Trail | 1770.274 | 11.8872 | Easy | out and back | 4 |
| Petrified Forest Scenic Drive | 46027.124 | 297.7896 | Moderate | point to point | 4.5 |
| Giant Logs Trail | 965.604 | 10.9728 | Easy | loop | 4 |
| Onyx Bridge Trail | 7402.964 | 134.7216 | Moderate | loop | 4 |
| Long Logs and Agate House Loop Trail | 3379.614 | 24.9936 | Easy | loop | 4 |
| Puerco Pueblo Trail | 482.802 | 2.7432 | Easy | loop | 4 |
| Devil’s Playground Loop | 12070.05 | 144.78 | Moderate | loop | 4.5 |
| Old Jasper Forest Road | 4184.284 | 53.9496 | Easy | loop | 4.5 |
Most Popular Hiking Trails in Zion National Park
| Name | Length | Elevation | Type | Difficulty | Visitor Ratings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angels Landing Trail | 6598.294 | 492.8616 | Hard | out and back | 5 |
| The Zion Narrows Riverside Walk | 2896.812 | 62.7888 | Easy | out and back | 4.5 |
| Zion Canyon Overlook Trail | 1609.34 | 64.9224 | Moderate | out and back | 4.5 |
| The Watchman Trail | 4988.954 | 196.9008 | Moderate | loop | 4.5 |
| The Subway Trail | 11265.38 | 397.764 | Hard | out and back | 5 |
| Weeping Rock Trail | 482.802 | 23.7744 | Easy | out and back | 4 |
| Zion Narrows Trail to Imlay Temple and Big Spring | 13840.324 | 1268.8824 | Hard | out and back | 5 |
| Lower Emerald Pool Trail | 2092.142 | 34.7472 | Easy | out and back | 4 |
| Emerald Pools Trail | 4667.086 | 184.7088 | Easy | out and back | 4 |
| Hidden Canyon Trail | 4828.02 | 283.7688 | Moderate | out and back | 4.5 |
Wildlife in Petrified Forest National Park and Zion National Park
Petrified Forest National Park and Zion National Park are two of the most popular national parks in the United States. Both parks are known for their breathtaking landscapes, stunning geological formations, and diverse wildlife. However, there are some differences in the wildlife you’ll see at each park.
At Petrified Forest National Park, visitors can see a variety of interesting animals, including pronghorns, coyotes, and elk. The park is also home to a variety of bird species, including golden eagles, roadrunners, and turkeys. In addition to the wildlife, Petrified Forest National Park is also known for its unique plant life, including the iconic petrified wood that gives the park its name.
Zion National Park is known for its diverse array of wildlife, including mule deer, bighorn sheep, and mountain lions. The park is also home to a variety of bird species, including peregrine falcons, red-tailed hawks, and ravens. In addition, Zion National Park is also known for its stunning plant life, including a variety of wildflowers, trees, and cacti.
In conclusion, Petrified Forest National Park and Zion National Park are both unique and beautiful parks that offer visitors the opportunity to see a variety of interesting wildlife. Whether you’re a birder, animal lover, or just appreciate the beauty of nature, both parks are sure to leave a lasting impression on you.
Below are lists of the most commonly spotted wildlife at Petrified Forest National Park and Zion National Park. However, you can see a full list of wildlife at each national park here.
Birds
| Petrified Forest National Park | Zion National Park |
|---|---|
| Peregrine Falcon | Peregrine Falcon |
| Northern Harrier | Northern Harrier |
| Sharp-Shinned Hawk | Sharp-Shinned Hawk |
| Osprey | Osprey |
| Tree Swallow | Tree Swallow |
| Mallard | Mallard |
| Canada Goose | Canada Goose |
| Lincoln’s Sparrow | Lincoln’s Sparrow |
| Ruby-Crowned Kinglet | Ruby-Crowned Kinglet |
| American Robin | American Robin |
| Great Horned Owl | Great Horned Owl |
| Red-Tailed Hawk | Red-Tailed Hawk |
| Northern Flicker | Northern Flicker |
| Merlin | Merlin |
| Barn Swallow | Barn Swallow |
| Savannah Sparrow | Savannah Sparrow |
| Great Blue Heron | Great Blue Heron |
| Hermit Thrush | Hermit Thrush |
| American Kestrel | American Kestrel |
| Bald Eagle | Bald Eagle |
| Song Sparrow | Song Sparrow |
| European Starling | European Starling |
| Northern Pintail | Northern Pintail |
| American Wigeon | American Wigeon |
| Green-Winged Teal | Green-Winged Teal |
Mammals
| Petrified Forest National Park | Zion National Park |
|---|---|
| Coyote | Coyote |
| Big Brown Bat | American Beaver |
| Bobcat | Muskrat |
| Striped Skunk | Big Brown Bat |
| Little Brown Bat | Bobcat |
| Deer Mouse | Striped Skunk |
| Raccoon | Little Brown Bat |
| Black Bear | Deer Mouse |
| Porcupine | Raccoon |
| Silver-Haired Bat | Black Bear |
| Hoary Bat | Porcupine |
| Red Fox | Silver-Haired Bat |
| Long-Tailed Weasel | Hoary Bat |
| Mountain Lion | Red Fox |
| Mule Deer | Long-Tailed Weasel |
| Gray Fox | House Mouse |
| Wolf | Mountain Lion |
| Long-Legged Myotis | Mule Deer |
| Badger | Gray Fox |
| California Myotis | Long-Legged Myotis |
| Fringed Myotis | Long-Eared Myotis |
| Brazilian Free-Tailed Bat | American Badger |
| Pacific Townsend’s Big-Eared Bat | Ermine |
| Bushy-Tailed Woodrat | California Myotis |
| Western Harvest Mouse | Fringed Myotis |
Reptiles
| Petrified Forest National Park | Zion National Park |
|---|---|
| Gopher Snake | Gophersnake |
| Western Terrestrial Garter Snake | Terrestrial Gartersnake |
| Western Rattlesnake | Ring-Necked Snake |
| Sagebrush Lizard | Common Sagebrush Lizard |
| Hernandez’s Short-Horned Lizard | Greater Short-Horned Lizard |
| Side-Blotched Lizard | Side-Blotched Lizard |
| Common Kingsnake | Common Kingsnake |
| Nightsnake | Nightsnake |
| Long-Nosed Leopard Lizard | Long-Nosed Leopard Lizard |
| Milksnake | Striped Whipsnake |
| Striped Whipsnake | Smith’s Black-Headed Snake |
| Southwestern Black-Headed Snake | Tree Lizard |
| Eastern Collared Lizard | Western Whiptail |
| Eastern Fence Lizard | Western Skink |
| Glossy Snake | Desert Spiny Lizard |
Amphibians
| Petrified Forest National Park | Zion National Park |
|---|---|
| Northern Leopard Frog | Northern Leopard Frog |
| Tiger Salamander | Tiger Salamander |
| Woodhouse’s Toad | Woodhouse’s Toad |
| Red-Spotted Toad | Red-Spotted Toad |
| Plains Spadefoot | Canyon Treefrog |
Fish
| Petrified Forest National Park | Zion National Park |
|---|---|
| Rainbow Trout | |
| Brook Trout | |
| Brown Trout | |
| Speckled Dace | |
| Channel Catfish | |
| Goldfish |
Beautiful Landscapes in Petrified Forest National Park and Zion National Park
Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona is famous for its petrified wood, colorful badlands, and ancient Native American petroglyphs. The park boasts over 200 million-year-old fossilized trees that visitors can admire, including long-dead species of conifers and ferns. The Painted Desert, located in the park, displays amazing colors and formations that make it one of the most beautiful landscapes in the world.
Zion National Park in Utah is characterized by its towering red cliffs, deep canyons and diverse landscape, including the iconic Narrows hike, where visitors walk through a slot canyon along the Virgin River. The park also has a large number of natural arches, including the famous “The Watchman,” a massive rock formation that overlooks the central part of the park. The park’s diverse landscape also includes lush forests, high plateaus and a stunning river gorge, making it popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds.
Things To-Do and Activities in Petrified Forest National Park and Zion National Park
Petrified Forest National Park and Zion National Park are two of the most popular national parks in the United States, attracting millions of visitors each year. Both parks offer a unique and breathtaking experience, but there are some key differences between the two.
In Petrified Forest National Park, visitors enjoy exploring the unique landscape of petrified wood and colorful badlands. Hiking, backpacking, and scenic drives are popular activities, and visitors can also enjoy ranger-led walks and campfire programs. The park is also home to a number of historic sites, including the Painted Desert Inn, which has been restored to its original 1930s appearance.
In contrast, Zion National Park is known for its towering sandstone cliffs and spectacular canyons, which can be seen from popular trails like the Narrows and Angels Landing. Rock climbing and canyoneering are popular activities, and visitors can also take a scenic drive through the park or enjoy a horseback ride. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, mountain lions, and bighorn sheep.
Both Petrified Forest National Park and Zion National Park offer a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors, and the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences and the type of activities you are interested in. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful hike or an adrenaline-fueled adventure, these two parks have something for everyone.
Best Time to Visit Petrified Forest National Park and Zion National Park
Petrified Forest National Park and Zion National Park are two of the most popular national parks in the United States. Both parks offer unique landscapes, but the seasonal weather patterns can greatly affect the experience of a visit.
Petrified Forest National Park is located in Arizona and has a hot, arid climate with temperatures ranging from the low 90s in the summer to the mid-40s in the winter. Winter is the best time to visit if you want to avoid the heat, but be prepared for occasional snow and rain. Summer is the peak tourist season, but it can be extremely hot with temperatures reaching well over 100°F.
Zion National Park, in Utah, has a milder climate with temperatures ranging from the high 80s in the summer to the mid-30s in the winter. Summer is the most popular time to visit, but it can also be quite crowded. Spring and fall are the best time to visit for milder temperatures and fewer crowds. Winter can bring snow and ice, making some trails and roads impassable.
The weather patterns in these parks can greatly affect the experience of a visit, so it is important to consider the weather when planning your trip. If you enjoy hot, dry weather, Petrified Forest National Park may be the best choice. But if you prefer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, then Zion National Park may be the better choice. Regardless of the season, both parks offer unique and breathtaking landscapes that are worth a visit.
Family Friendliness of Petrified Forest National Park and Zion National Park
Petrified Forest National Park and Zion National Park are two popular destinations for families looking for an outdoor adventure. When it comes to family-friendliness, both parks have a lot to offer.
Petrified Forest National Park offers a range of educational and interactive opportunities for families. The park has several well-marked trails that are great for children, including the Giant Logs Trail, which takes visitors past some of the largest petrified tree trunks in the park. In addition, the park offers ranger-led programs and junior ranger activities that help children learn about the history and geology of the area.
Zion National Park is also a great choice for families. The park has several easy hikes that are suitable for children, such as the Riverside Walk and the Weeping Rock Trail. In addition, families can take a scenic drive through the park, stopping at various overlooks to take in the stunning views. The park also has a junior ranger program, which allows children to learn about the park’s unique geology and wildlife.
In conclusion, both Petrified Forest National Park and Zion National Park are great options for families, but if you’re traveling with children, Zion National Park may be the better choice. With its easy hikes and scenic drives, it provides a well-rounded outdoor experience for children of all ages.