|
|
The Petrified National Forest is one
of the most interesting natural phenomenons in the United States.
Dotted with cliffs, odd limestone formations, trees turned to stone,
and general desert scrub, you may get the sense you’ve stumbled
across an Arizona desert wasteland.
The opposite is in fact true. Petrified National Forest boasts a unique
environment with a strange array of Arizona wildlife. A hike here
has the potential to stick in the memory of Arizona adventurers.
The trees themselves, the park’s namesake, are said to have
floated downstream and come to rest here, in the midst of the desert.
Over time, the steady streams of volcanic ash eventually covered the
logs, altering the consistency of the wood. Silica formed and the
wood transformed slowly to a shiny, dense, stone like form. Petrified
Forest National Park contains the largest example of petrified wood
in the world and despite early pillaging, there is still an impressive
supply.
Wildlife also adorns the park, one of the most noteworthy species
being the bounding antelope that bound amidst the limestone cliffs.
For an impressive array of natural wonders, set aside some time to
explore Petrified National Forest and other unique Arizona natural
attractions.
|
|
|
|
