Friday 28 March 2008
We observed large red rock formations and a native Indian wayside at this rest area. We decided to stay for awhile (overnight in the clean rest area you can see just behind the Welcome to Arizona sign) and take pictures of the rocks and their noted painted hillside. The animals in the pictures are statues. (Yes, I like rocks & you should see the collection I am bringing home...don't tell John, he may not be pleased with the added weight in the coach.) Time to roll westward...ho!
Later on that morning....
As we are driving west, still on Hwy 40, when we start seeing signs for the Petrified Forest and Painted Desert. Why not? We soon learn it is a 28 mile drive and camping is not allowed. For us, we exit Hwy 40 and when finished with the drive end up on Hwy 180 for a few miles and then junction back into I40. What's a 28 mile drive take? Well, about five hours if you are very picky about the trails you select. We stopped at every marker of the park map, walked most of the trails, took hundreds of pictures, visited the park center/museum and took home souvenirs from the gift shop. Note: At the entrance you are warned not to pick up any of the petrified wood, there are signs posted at every stopping point, the $325 fine for stealing is everywhere, and upon departure; you may be pulled to the side for an inspection. Joe said he would kick my butt if I even thought about it. I didn't and I wouldn't. I like to follow the rules...things are easier that way. Besides that is what a gift shop is for. After visiting the Crystal Forest, we noticed an armed ranger standing by the path. He did not look happy and was looking past us, so we did not offer any greetings. We had barely reached our truck when a lady was being arrested. Ouch! I only spent $15 in the gift shop; her bill is at least $325 and she still does not have a souvenir.
The park is a 'must see' if you have not already been there. Since overnight camping is not allowed, we asked about backpacking. Yes, that is fine. Perhaps in a future time we will return here again and do some hiking. It is difficult to pick out just a few pictures as I would rather sit with you, share a cool beverage, and let you enjoy a slide show of our 28 mile drive. In lieu of that, please enjoy a few of the pics.
