Sedona to Petrified Forest & Painted Desert Private Tour — Blue Mesa, Crystal Trees & Route 66
Take an 11‑hour private tour from Sedona along Route 66 to Petrified Forest National Park. Walk among 216-million-year-old crystalized trees, explore Blue Mesa’s alien badlands and learn the Native histories woven through the painted strata.
The Experience
Before You Go
Hydrate and top up often
High desert sun and elevation mean you should carry 2–3 liters of water and sip frequently; guides provide bottled water but bring your own refillable bottle.
Sun protection is non‑negotiable
Wide brim hat, sunscreen, and UV sunglasses make midday exploration comfortable; shade is scarce on most overlooks.
Respect cultural sites
Do not touch or photograph petroglyphs closely without asking; removing petrified wood or artifacts is illegal and damages cultural heritage.
Wear stable shoes
Trails are short but uneven—trail runners or hiking shoes are best for the Blue Mesa loop and Crystal Forest walk.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Early‑morning Blue Mesa for pastel light and near-solitude
- •Agate Bridge and smaller petrified log clusters off the main loop
Wildlife
- •Pronghorn and mule deer
- •Common ravens and coyotes
Conservation Note
Removing petrified wood is illegal and harms a non-renewable resource; stay on designated trails, pack out trash and follow park regulations to minimize impact.
The park preserves Late Triassic fossils and petrified wood; it's on ancestral Hopi and Navajo lands with archaeological sites like Puerco Pueblo and petroglyph panels.
Photographer's Notes
- • Blue Mesa overlook
- • Crystal Forest trailhead
- • Painted Desert Rim Road viewpoint near Puerco Pueblo
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking shoesEssential
Provides traction on slippery shale and uneven badland surfaces.
Sun hat & sunscreenEssential
Protects against intense high‑desert sun during midday stops.
Refillable water bottle (2–3L)Essential
Hydration through long stretches between services is critical.
Wide-angle lens or smartphone with panorama mode
Captures sweeping views of layered badlands and long log stretches.
Common Questions
Is park admission included?
The tour covers parking fees; however, national park entrance fees may apply — guides typically handle parking/pass costs as part of inclusions.
How far is the drive from Sedona?
Expect about 2.5–3 hours of driving round trip each way depending on pickup location and traffic; the full tour is approximately 11 hours.
Are children allowed?
Yes — infants and small children can join; stroller access is noted but trails may be uneven, so plan for short carries on some walk sections.
Can I leave the tour early or join late?
Pickup options are flexible but confirm with the operator; meeting at the office requires checking in 15 minutes before departure.
Is this tour physically demanding?
No technical demands, but the day is long and includes multiple short walks on uneven ground; suitable for those with moderate fitness.
What’s the best time of year to visit?
Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and softer light; summer gets hot and winter can be windy and cool at higher elevations.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
11 hours
Location
Holbrook, Arizona
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness—able to walk short uneven trails and stand for guided talks; long day of travel is required
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