Escalante Petrified Forest State Park Travel Guide — Utah

Our Escalante Petrified Forest State Park guide covers practical planning for Escalante Petrified Forest State Park Utah — best time to visit, getting there, and what to do on the ground.

For those seeking a unique geological experience amidst the striking landscapes of Southern Utah, Escalante Petrified Forest State Park Utah offers an unforgettable adventure. This remarkable park, nestled on the edge of the vast Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, is a treasure trove of ancient history, showcasing an incredible array of colorful petrified wood. Our team at Roam States has explored this captivating destination to bring you an independent and confident guide, ensuring your visit is as rewarding as possible.

Why Visit Escalante Petrified Forest State Park

Escalante Petrified Forest State Park is more than just a collection of ancient logs; it's a vibrant outdoor museum chronicling millions of years of Earth's history. Here, you'll discover fossilized trees that have transformed into dazzling, multi-colored stone, displaying hues of red, yellow, white, and black, thanks to the minerals present during the petrifying process. The park's elevation, around 5,900 feet, provides a unique ecological setting, with pinyon-juniper woodlands and lava flows adding to the scenic diversity.

Beyond the petrified wood, the park offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding slickrock country, the town of Escalante, and the Wide Hollow Reservoir. It serves as an excellent basecamp for exploring the broader wonders of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, with its endless hiking opportunities and dramatic slot canyons. Whether you're a geology enthusiast, a hiker, or simply looking for a tranquil escape into nature, the park's unique blend of ancient fossils and scenic beauty makes it a compelling destination.

Who It's Best For

Escalante Petrified Forest State Park caters to a diverse range of visitors. It's ideal for:

• **Families with Children:** The trails are generally manageable for most ages, and the visual wonder of the petrified wood captivates young and old alike. The Wide Hollow Reservoir also offers opportunities for swimming and paddleboarding, providing a refreshing break for kids.
• **Hikers of All Levels:** With trails ranging from easy loops to more strenuous, scenic climbs, there's something for every fitness level. You can opt for a shorter, accessible path or challenge yourself with steeper sections for more expansive views.
• **Photography Enthusiasts:** The vibrant colors of the petrified wood, combined with the striking desert landscapes, make for incredible photographic opportunities. Early morning and late afternoon light often enhance these natural wonders.
• **Nature Lovers & Geologists:** Those with an interest in natural history will be fascinated by the fossilized trees, some dating back over 150 million years to the Jurassic Period. The visitor center provides excellent exhibits to deepen your understanding.
• **Campers & RV Travelers:** The park offers well-maintained campgrounds with various hookup options, making it a comfortable base for extended stays in the region.

Our team finds that the park strikes a perfect balance between accessibility and rugged natural beauty, making it a rewarding experience for almost anyone venturing through Southern Utah.

Getting There & Parking

Escalante Petrified Forest State Park is conveniently located just a short drive from the town of Escalante, along Utah's Scenic Byway 12. To reach the park, head west from the town of Escalante on UT-12 for approximately 1.5 miles. Then, turn right onto Reservoir Road, which is clearly signed for Escalante Petrified Forest State Park. Follow Reservoir Road for about 1 mile to the park entrance.

Upon arrival, you'll find a fee station. As of 2026, the day-use fee is $10 per vehicle, with a reduced rate of $5 for Utah resident seniors aged 62 and older. Commercial groups are charged $5 per person. The visitor center and museum are open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM, year-round, except for Christmas and New Year's Day. We recommend checking the Utah State Parks website for any current conditions or alerts before your visit, especially regarding fire restrictions or water levels.

Parking is readily available at the trailhead, located just behind the entrance building. The lot is generally sufficient for visitors, accommodating about a dozen vehicles. For those staying overnight, the campgrounds also offer dedicated parking for camping units and additional vehicles, though extra fees may apply for second vehicles.

Top Things to Do

When considering things to do at Escalante Petrified Forest State Park, the focus is undoubtedly on the geological marvels and outdoor recreation. Our team suggests prioritizing these activities to make the most of your visit:

• **Hike the Petrified Forest Trail:** This is the park's signature experience. The Petrified Forest Trail is a 1-mile loop that winds through ancient lava flows and showcases thousands of pieces of petrified wood. It's a moderate hike with about 200 feet of elevation gain, offering scenic views of the town of Escalante and Wide Hollow Reservoir. Be sure to pick up an interpretive pamphlet at the trailhead to learn more about the geology and history.
• **Explore the Sleeping Rainbows Trail:** For a more challenging and rewarding experience, take the optional 0.75-mile (or 0.8-mile, depending on source) Sleeping Rainbows Trail loop off the Petrified Forest Trail. This section is steeper and may require some scrambling, but it leads to the highest concentrations of petrified wood in the park, often described as shining like rainbows in the sunshine. It offers expansive views of the slickrock country to the north. Allow approximately two hours to complete both the Petrified Forest Trail and the Sleeping Rainbows Trail.
• **Visit the Visitor Center and Museum:** Before hitting the trails, stop at the visitor center. It houses fascinating exhibits of petrified wood, petrified dinosaur bones, ammonite, and shell fossils, providing valuable context for your hike. The museum is open from 9 AM to 6 PM.
• **Enjoy Wide Hollow Reservoir:** The 130-acre Wide Hollow Reservoir is a popular spot for water activities. Visitors can go boating, canoeing, kayaking, fishing (stocked with rainbow trout and bluegill), and swimming. Canoe rentals are available in the summer. However, as of July 2, 2026, the boat ramp at Escalante Petrified Forest State Park is currently closed due to low water levels and drought conditions, so plan accordingly if you intend to launch a boat.
• **Stargazing:** Given the remote location and typically clear skies, Escalante Petrified Forest State Park offers excellent opportunities for stargazing.

Remember, it is illegal to collect or disturb petrified wood within the park. Take only photographs, as some local legends even suggest bad luck befalls those who remove pieces.

Best Time to Visit

Our team recommends visiting Escalante Petrified Forest State Park during the shoulder seasons of **late spring (April-May) and early fall (September-October mid)**. During these months, the weather is typically mild, with comfortable temperatures, low humidity, and mostly clear skies, making it ideal for hiking and exploring.

• **Spring (March-May):** Offers mild conditions for camping and hiking, with fewer temperature extremes. Highs can range from the 60s to 80s Fahrenheit.
• **Summer (June-August):** While popular, summer can be very warm, with average daily highs reaching into the 90s, and occasionally exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Limited shade on trails means you'll need to bring plenty of water and start hikes early. Thunderstorms can also pop up quickly.
• **Fall (September-November):** Often considered the most comfortable time, with daytime highs between 55-80°F and nights dropping into the 30s-40s. September and October offer lower crowds than peak summer and excellent light for photography.
• **Winter (December-February):** Temperatures drop below freezing at night, and light to moderate snowfall is possible. While less ideal for extensive hiking, the park remains open, and you might experience a unique, quiet beauty. Showers in the campground are closed seasonally from mid-November to mid-March.

Regardless of when you visit, always check the current weather forecast and park conditions, as temperatures can change quickly in Southern Utah.

Where to Stay Nearby

For Escalante Petrified Forest State Park lodging, you have several excellent options both within the park and in the nearby town of Escalante. Staying close allows for easy access to the park's trails and other regional attractions.

In-Park Camping:

Escalante Petrified Forest State Park offers a range of camping facilities, making it a convenient choice for those who want to immerse themselves in nature.

• **Wide Hollow Campground:** This campground offers 13 standard sites and three sites with partial hookups (30-amp electric service). Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 40 feet in length, and each includes a fire pit and picnic table. Restrooms and hot showers are available in Loop A.
• **Lake View Campground:** Offers three partial hookup sites (30-amp electric service) right next to Wide Hollow Reservoir, also accommodating rigs up to 40 feet.
• **Group Overnight Camping:** The Lake View Group Campsite can accommodate up to 50 people and 10 vehicles, with a fee of $100 per night. It includes one water and electric RV hookup.

Camping fees range from $29 to $50 per night for individual sites, depending on hookups. All campsites are reservable online up to four months in advance, and the group site can be reserved up to one year in advance. The park is open year-round for camping, though showers are closed seasonally from mid-November to mid-March. Generators are not allowed in the campground. Firewood is available for purchase at the park, but gathering it from around the park is prohibited.

Hotels and Lodges in Escalante:

The town of Escalante, just 1.5 miles from the park, provides numerous lodging options, from budget-friendly motels to more upscale lodges. Our team highlights a few highly-rated options and those undergoing recent improvements:

• **Ofland Escalante:** A 3-star holiday park rated highly by guests, located just 0.8 miles from the park.
• **Entrada Escalante Lodge:** A charming lodge about 1.6 to 2 miles from the park, offering free parking, WiFi, kitchenettes, and spa services.
• **Escalante Canyon Inn (formerly Circle of Destination Motel):** Under new ownership and undergoing renovations in 2026 and 2027, this pet-friendly inn offers an on-site restaurant and laundry facilities, located about 1 mile from the park.
• **Escalante Grand Resort:** Offers RV sites, tent camping, and vacation home rentals with 360-degree red rock views, an on-site coffee shop, and spa.
• **The INN of Escalante:** A well-regarded 3-star property.
• **Escalante Yurts:** For a unique experience, consider staying in climate-controlled yurts, which often include kitchen facilities and breakfast.

Hotel prices near Escalante Petrified Forest State Park typically range from $108 to $371 per night, varying by season and amenities.

Sample 2-Day Itinerary

To help you plan your adventure, our team has crafted a sample 2-day itinerary for Escalante Petrified Forest State Park and its surroundings:

Day 1: Petrified Wonders & Reservoir Recreation

• **Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM):** Arrive at Escalante Petrified Forest State Park. Start your visit at the Visitor Center and Museum to gain context about the petrified wood and local geology. Then, embark on the combined Petrified Forest Trail and Sleeping Rainbows Trail loop. Allow 2 hours to fully appreciate the colorful petrified wood and panoramic views.
• **Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM):** Enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the park's picnic areas or head back to the town of Escalante for a meal at a local cafe.
• **Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM):** Head to Wide Hollow Reservoir for some relaxation and water activities. Depending on conditions, you can swim, fish, or rent a canoe or paddleboard. Remember to check current boat ramp conditions.
• **Evening:** Check into your chosen lodging. Enjoy dinner in Escalante, perhaps at a restaurant with local fare. If skies are clear, consider some stargazing within the park or at your campsite.

Day 2: Grand Staircase & Slot Canyons

• **Morning (8:00 AM - 1:00 PM):** Dedicate this day to exploring the vast Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Consider a hike to the iconic Lower Calf Creek Falls, a 6-mile round-trip trail leading to a 126-foot waterfall in a desert oasis. *Note: The Calf Creek Recreation Site, including the trailhead for Lower Calf Creek Falls, is scheduled to close from July 8, 2026, for up to two months for infrastructure enhancements. Check current closure information before planning.* Alternatively, explore Devil's Garden, a natural playground of unique rock formations and arches, which is family-friendly and easily accessible off Hole-in-the-Rock Road.
• **Lunch (1:00 PM - 2:00 PM):** Pack a picnic for your Grand Staircase adventure, or return to Escalante.
• **Afternoon (2:00 PM - 5:00 PM):** For the adventurous, consider a guided tour into one of the famous slot canyons near Escalante, such as Peek-A-Boo, Spooky, or Zebra Slot Canyon. These require careful planning and often a 4x4 vehicle for access. Many local outfitters offer guided trips. If slot canyons aren't your speed, take a scenic drive along a portion of Hole-in-the-Rock Road or explore the Escalante Heritage Center in town.
• **Evening:** Enjoy a final dinner in Escalante and reflect on your Southern Utah adventures.

This itinerary provides a good balance of the park's highlights and the broader regional attractions. For more extensive exploration of Utah's natural wonders, consider extending your trip to include nearby Zion National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park, both within a reasonable drive. You can find more inspiration for your US trip planning on our site, including guides to other incredible places in Utah like Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and Capitol Reef National Park.

Is It Worth Visiting?

Our team confidently asserts that Escalante Petrified Forest State Park is absolutely worth visiting. While it might not have the same national park recognition as its more famous neighbors, it offers a unique and intimate encounter with ancient geological history that stands on its own. The sheer volume and vibrant colors of the petrified wood found here are truly remarkable, providing a tangible link to a prehistoric world.

Beyond the petrified wood, the park's diverse offerings — from scenic hiking trails to water recreation on Wide Hollow Reservoir — ensure there's something to engage every type of traveler. Its proximity to the town of Escalante and the vast Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument also makes it an excellent and convenient base for broader exploration of Southern Utah's unparalleled natural beauty. For those seeking a blend of natural wonder, outdoor activity, and a touch of ancient mystery, Escalante Petrified Forest State Park delivers a truly rewarding experience.

How to Get There

Accessing Escalante Petrified Forest State Park is straightforward, making it an easy addition to any Southern Utah road trip. The park is situated just west of the town of Escalante, which itself is a key stop along Utah's All-American Road, Scenic Byway 12.

From the town of Escalante, head west on Highway 12 for approximately 1.5 miles. You will then see clear signage for Escalante Petrified Forest State Park, directing you to turn right onto Reservoir Road. Continue on Reservoir Road for about 1 mile, and you will arrive at the park entrance. The park's GPS coordinates are approximately 37.78778°N, 111.62861°W.

If you're coming from other major national parks:

• **From Bryce Canyon National Park:** Drive east on Scenic Byway 12. The drive is approximately 1.5 hours, covering about 60 miles.
• **From Capitol Reef National Park:** Drive south on Scenic Byway 12. The drive is roughly 90 minutes, covering about 67 miles.
• **From Zion National Park:** The drive is longer, approximately 3-4 hours, depending on the route. You would typically take UT-9 East to US-89 North, then connect to Scenic Byway 12 East.

While the main roads to the park are paved and well-maintained, if you plan to explore more remote areas of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, a high-clearance or four-wheel-drive vehicle is often recommended, especially on unpaved roads like Hole-in-the-Rock Road, which can become impassable after rain.

Escalante Petrified Forest State Park Hiking Trails

The Escalante Petrified Forest State Park hiking trails are the park's main draw, offering visitors an up-close look at its namesake geological wonders. Our team has detailed the primary trails:

• **The Petrified Forest Trail:** This is the most popular and accessible trail, an interpretive 1-mile loop (or 1.1-mile according to some sources) that winds through a landscape dotted with thousands of pieces of petrified wood. The trail begins with a moderate climb to a mesa top, offering views of Wide Hollow Reservoir and the town of Escalante. It's generally considered an easy hike for most, taking about an hour to complete. Interpretive pamphlets are available at the trailhead to guide your exploration. Dogs are allowed on this trail but must be on a leash and cleaned up after.
• **The Sleeping Rainbows Trail:** An optional, more challenging extension off the Petrified Forest Trail, this loop is approximately 0.75 to 0.8 miles long. It's significantly steeper and involves some scrambling over rocks, leading to the highest concentration of the park's most vibrantly colored petrified wood. The name "Sleeping Rainbows" comes from the way the multi-hued petrified logs appear to shimmer in the sunlight. Combining this with the Petrified Forest Trail typically takes about two hours.
• **Escalante Petrified Forest – Petrified Wood Trail Loop:** Some sources refer to a 1.5-mile or 1.7-mile loop that combines elements of the main Petrified Forest Trail, offering a comprehensive viewing experience. This trail provides scenic views of the Escalante area and showcases various sections of petrified wood, including a large cross-cut section with visible bark and tree rings.

The trails traverse diverse terrain, including pinyon-juniper woodlands (often referred to as a "pygmy forest" due to the stunted growth of centuries-old trees in the arid environment) and ancient lava flows. Erosion has exposed these vibrant fossilized trees, which are the primary geological feature throughout the park. Remember to wear appropriate footwear with good traction, especially on steeper sections, and always carry plenty of water, particularly during warmer months.

Escalante Petrified Forest State Park camping

Camping at Escalante Petrified Forest State Park is a fantastic way to experience the area. The park offers two main campgrounds: Wide Hollow Campground and Lake View Campground, which collectively provide 22 campsites with various hookup options. Sites range from $29 to $50 per night, with full hookup sites available. All sites include a fire pit and picnic table, and many are paved and level, accommodating RVs and trailers up to 40 feet. Hot showers and flush toilets are available in Loop A of Wide Hollow Campground. Reservations for individual campsites can be made up to four months in advance, and the group site up to one year in advance, via the Utah State Parks reservation system. The park is open year-round for camping, but showers are closed seasonally from mid-November to mid-March. Generators are prohibited in the campground, and firewood must be purchased at the park or harvested in Utah.

things to do in Escalante

Beyond the State Park, the town of Escalante serves as a gateway to a wealth of activities within the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Our team recommends exploring the famous slot canyons like Peek-A-Boo, Spooky, and Zebra, which offer unique, tight squeezes and stunning striped walls (guided tours are highly recommended for these). Hiking to Lower Calf Creek Falls is another popular option, leading to a beautiful 126-foot waterfall (check for current closures as of July 2026). You can also drive scenic backroads like Hole-in-the-Rock Road or Cottonwood Canyon Road for incredible vistas and access to remote formations like Devil's Garden. The Escalante Heritage Center offers insights into pioneer history, and the Wide Hollow Reservoir within the State Park provides opportunities for fishing, swimming, and paddleboarding.

Escalante Petrified Forest State Park with kids

Escalante Petrified Forest State Park is an excellent destination for families with kids. The Petrified Forest Trail is a manageable 1-mile loop that is engaging for most ages, allowing children to marvel at the colorful petrified wood. The visitor center and museum feature fascinating exhibits of fossils and petrified bones that can spark young imaginations. Additionally, Wide Hollow Reservoir offers a refreshing break with opportunities for swimming, fishing, and paddleboarding, making it a well-rounded experience for families. The park's campgrounds are family-friendly, with amenities like hot showers and picnic tables. Remember to bring plenty of water, wear sturdy shoes, and keep children on designated trails to protect the fragile petrified wood.

best hotels near Escalante Petrified Forest State Park

When searching for the best hotels near Escalante Petrified Forest State Park, several highly-rated options are available in the town of Escalante, just a short drive away. Top choices include Ofland Escalante, praised for its quality and proximity (0.8 miles from the park), and Entrada Escalante Lodge, known for its excellent guest ratings, amenities like kitchenettes and spa services, and being about 1.6 to 2 miles from the park. Other well-regarded options include Escalante Grand Resort, The INN of Escalante, and Escalante Canyon Inn (formerly Circle of Destination Motel), which is undergoing renovations in 2026-2027 and offers an on-site restaurant and pet-friendly stays. For a unique experience, consider Escalante Yurts, offering climate-controlled lodging. Prices typically range from $108 to $371 per night.

Escalante Petrified Forest State Park tips

Our top tips for visiting Escalante Petrified Forest State Park include: **Visit during late spring or early fall** for the most comfortable weather. **Start your day at the Visitor Center** to understand the geology before hitting the trails. **Carry plenty of water**, especially during warmer months, as trails offer limited shade. **Wear sturdy hiking shoes** with good traction, particularly if you plan to tackle the steeper Sleeping Rainbows Trail. **Do not collect petrified wood** – it's illegal and preserves the park's beauty for future visitors. **Check current park conditions** on the Utah State Parks website before you go, as fire restrictions and water levels (like the current boat ramp closure) can impact your plans. Finally, if camping, **make reservations in advance**, especially during peak seasons.

where to stay near Escalante Petrified Forest State Park

For lodging near Escalante Petrified Forest State Park, you have excellent choices both within the park and in the nearby town of Escalante. Inside the park, Wide Hollow Campground and Lake View Campground offer RV and tent sites with various hookups, hot showers, and amenities, with reservations available up to four months in advance. In Escalante, just 1.5 miles away, options range from highly-rated hotels and lodges like Ofland Escalante, Entrada Escalante Lodge, and The INN of Escalante, to unique experiences like Escalante Yurts. Many accommodations offer convenient access to the park and other regional attractions, making Escalante an ideal basecamp for your Southern Utah adventures.

Our team at Roam States firmly believes that Escalante Petrified Forest State Park, with its dazzling petrified wood and diverse recreational opportunities, offers an enriching and memorable experience for any traveler. We encourage you to plan your visit, embrace the ancient wonders, and explore the captivating landscapes that define this unique corner of Utah.

Last updated: 2026-07-08 by the Roam States team.