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Hikes/United States/Arizona/Petrified Forest National Park
Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
135 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
7.4 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
1.5-2.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Onyx Bridge Trail

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Table of contents

The Onyx Bridge Trail is a stellar hike in Petrified Forest National Park. It shows off the petrified wood fossils this park is known for in addition to the dramatic mesas, riverbeds, and red desert landscapes that comprise this park. It’s a moderately difficult hike that’s suitable for strong beginners and active children, but you’ll want to have a downloaded route available to you to help with navigation.

Route Description for Onyx Bridge Trail

Get a taste of everything that makes Petrified Forest National Park special on the Onyx Bridge Trail, a great hike to try if you want to see the ancient fossilized petrified wood that gives the park its name. In addition to the fossils, you’ll explore mesas, hoodoos, riverbeds, and the unusual desert landscape that makes this park so fascinating.

This hike does present some navigational challenges. Download your GPS route ahead of time to help you find your way. If you’re hiking here in the summertime, ensure you have water and sun protection with you. As mentioned, it’s extremely important that you leave each and every fossil as it is. Moving, lifting, or taking petrified wood with you is illegal and you can be prosecuted for it. Should you see anyone attempting to take fossils, contact the park rangers at 928-524-6228.

From the trailhead near the inn (which is actually a museum, not an inn), take the trail that switchbacks down the mesa. The route heads away from the mesa before splitting into a long counterclockwise loop. The route isn’t always well-defined. In fact, it’s more of a make-your-own-trail experience than anything, so refer to your GPS if you’re unsure of the way.

Getting to the Onyx Bridge Trail Trailhead

The trailhead for the Onyx Bridge Trail is off Petrified Forest Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    No

  • When to do:

    February-November

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    Poor

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Lollipop

Onyx Bridge Trail Elevation Graph

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