If you’re planning a trip to Petrified Forest National Park in November, you’re in for a real treat. Tucked into the high desert of northeastern Arizona, this stunning park is home to one of the largest collections of petrified wood in the world, plus surreal badlands, ancient petroglyphs, and wide-open desert views that stretch for miles.
November is actually one of the best times of year to explore Petrified Forest—cooler temps, fewer crowds, and clear desert skies make it perfect for a calm and scenic adventure. Whether you’re road-tripping through Arizona or planning a quick getaway, this complete guide will help you make the most of your visit in November.
🌤 What’s the Weather Like in Petrified Forest in November?
Here’s what to expect:
- Daytime temperatures: Usually between 50°F and 65°F (10°C to 18°C)
- Nights and early mornings: Can drop to 25°F to 35°F (-4°C to 2°C)
- Humidity: Very low and dry
- Rain/snow: Rare, but possible (bring a light waterproof jacket just in case)
In short: chilly in the mornings and evenings, but pleasant during the day—especially with the sun shining. November is a shoulder-season sweet spot, making it ideal for hiking and sightseeing without overheating or fighting through peak-season crowds.
🎟️ Entrance Fees & Visitor Info
Park Hours:
- Open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM
- The gates close promptly at 5 PM, so plan accordingly
Fees:
- Private vehicle: $25 (valid for 7 days)
- Motorcycle: $20
- Per person (bike, walk): $15
- Annual Parks Pass: $80 (America the Beautiful pass)
You can pay at the entrance or purchase passes online ahead of time through the National Park Service website.
📍 Pro Tip: Get there early to beat any small crowds and enjoy the morning light—especially beautiful for photos.
📍 Top Things to See and Do in November
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/fun-things-to-do-november-2000-71657a3538fa46c587b25d1649369001.jpg)
1. Painted Desert Viewpoints
The northern part of the park is where you’ll find the stunning, multi-colored layers of the Painted Desert. In November, the low-angle autumn sun brings out even richer reds, purples, and oranges in the landscape.
Must-see stops:
- Tiponi Point
- Tawa Point
- Kachina Point (next to the Painted Desert Inn)
- Chinde Point
📸 Bring your camera or phone—the lighting this time of year is perfect for wide shots and panoramas.
2. Painted Desert Inn National Historic Landmark
Step inside this beautifully restored 1920s inn-turned-museum to explore Native American art, WPA-era murals, and exhibits on Route 66 and the park’s cultural history. The inn also serves as a scenic overlook.
3. Blue Mesa Trail
This 1-mile loop trail is a favorite for a reason—imagine walking through alien-looking badlands surrounded by colorful hills and petrified wood.
- Difficulty: Moderate (a few steep spots)
- Time: About 45 minutes
- Tip: Go in the morning to beat the sun and get the best lighting for photos
4. Crystal Forest Trail
This short 0.75-mile loop offers some of the best close-up views of petrified wood in the park—crystal formations, rainbow colors, and ancient logs frozen in time.
- Flat, easy trail—great for all ages
- Look but don’t touch—it’s illegal to take petrified wood from the park
5. Giant Logs & Rainbow Forest Museum
Located near the south entrance, this area is home to the largest and most colorful petrified wood specimens in the park.
- Giant Logs Trail: Short loop with interpretive signs
- Rainbow Forest Museum: Learn about the park’s geology, fossils, and ancient ecosystems
6. Agate House Trail
Take a 2-mile round-trip walk to see the ruins of an ancient pueblo built entirely from petrified wood. This unique structure is a glimpse into how people once lived in this region over 700 years ago.
7. Route 66 Alignment & Car Wreck Exhibit
Did you know Route 66 once passed through the park? You can still visit the spot where it crossed—look for the old 1932 Studebaker installation and imagine the golden days of road-tripping America.
🥾 What to Wear & Bring in November
Desert weather in November can flip fast—sunny and warm one hour, windy and cold the next. Dress in layers and be prepared for temperature swings.
👕 Wear:
- Moisture-wicking base layer
- Insulated fleece or hoodie
- Lightweight jacket or windbreaker
- Comfortable hiking pants or leggings
- Sturdy hiking shoes or trail runners
- Hat & sunglasses (yes, even in November—sun glare is real)
🎒 Bring:
- Refillable water bottle or hydration pack – It’s dry out there!
- Snacks or a packed lunch
- Sunscreen & lip balm
- Camera or phone for photos
- Park map or downloaded trail info (cell signal is limited)
- Binoculars if you’re into birdwatching
🚰 Important: There are no food vendors inside the park, so bring everything you’ll need for the day—especially water!
🐾 Wildlife & What to Watch For
November is a great time for spotting wildlife because the cooler temps bring animals out during the day.
Animals You Might See:
- Pronghorn antelope
- Ravens and hawks
- Jackrabbits
- Lizards (on warm days)
- Coyote (rare, but possible)
Don’t worry—there are no bears or mountain lions here. Just remember to observe all wildlife from a safe distance and never feed them.
🧭 Travel Tips for Visiting in November
- ✅ Arrive early – You’ll want a full day to explore the park’s north and south ends.
- ✅ Check weather ahead – While snow is rare, it’s not impossible in late November.
- ✅ Fill up on gas – There are no gas stations inside the park.
- ✅ Plan your route – The main scenic drive through the park is about 28 miles long and connects both entrances. Give yourself 2–3 hours minimum for a relaxed visit.
📌 Nearby Places to Explore
If you’re extending your road trip, check out these nearby stops:
- Holbrook, AZ – A quirky Route 66 town with diners and dinosaur statues
- Meteor Crater – One of the best-preserved impact craters on Earth
- Winslow, AZ – Stop and take that famous “standin’ on the corner” photo
- Canyon de Chelly National Monument – Gorgeous red rock canyons and Native American history, about 2 hours northeast
❓ FAQs: Petrified Forest National Park in November
🕓 How long does it take to visit the whole park?
If you just drive through with a few stops, you can do it in 2–3 hours. But for a full experience—hikes, museums, and photo ops—give yourself at least 4–6 hours.
❄️ Is it too cold to visit in November?
Not at all! November is a great time to go. Mornings and evenings are chilly, but daytime temps are usually ideal for hiking. Just dress in layers and bring a warm jacket for sunrise or sunset.
📷 Can I take petrified wood or rocks home?
No—it’s illegal to take any natural materials from the park. Instead, stop by a local gift shop in Holbrook for ethically sourced petrified wood souvenirs.
🐕 Can I bring my dog?
Yes—leashed pets are allowed on paved roads, trails, and picnic areas, but not inside buildings. Always clean up after your dog and keep them under control.
🏨 Are there places to stay inside the park?
There are no hotels or campgrounds inside the park, but you’ll find lodging options in nearby towns like:
- Holbrook (20 minutes away)
- Winslow (45 minutes)
- Gallup, NM (1 hour)
🌄 Final Thoughts: Why November is a Hidden Gem at Petrified Forest
If you’re craving wide-open skies, otherworldly landscapes, and a peaceful desert experience, Petrified Forest in November is a fantastic choice. The cooler temperatures make hiking and sightseeing comfortable, and the soft light of late fall brings out incredible colors in the Painted Desert and petrified wood.
You’ll avoid the summer heat, skip the crowds, and enjoy a quiet, reflective visit to one of the most unique national parks in the country. Just remember to layer up, pack water, and give yourself time to explore both ends of the park—you’ll leave with unforgettable memories and a camera full of stunning photos.