Devil’s Playground trail is a remote hike located in the southern part of Petrified Forest National Park. The trail is a moderate 4.2-mile loop that takes hikers through a landscape of petrified wood, badlands, and colorful hills. Here is how to hike Devil’s Playground trail.
How to get a permit for Devil’s Playground hike.
Petrified Forest National Park implemented a permit system for Devil’s Playground hike. You can only apply for permit in person at the park’s visitor center with only two permits issued per week. So, if you are planning to do this hike, arrive to the park visitor center early. You can find detailed information on how to apply for hiking permit here.
How to hike Devil’s Playground trail.
Tips for hiking the Devil’s Playground trail in Petrified Forest National Park
- Check the weather: The trail can be hot and exposed, so check the weather forecast before heading out and plan accordingly. Be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and appropriate clothing.
- Stay on the trail: The petrified wood in the park is a protected resource, and visitors are not allowed to take or remove any pieces. Stay on the designated trail and avoid touching or climbing on any of the petrified wood.
- Hiking shoes: The trail is sandy and rocky in places, so wear comfortable hiking shoes with good traction.
- Plan for the distance: The Devil’s Playground trail is 4.2 miles long, so plan accordingly and bring snacks or a light lunch.
- Start early: The trail is less frequently traveled than other trails in the park, so consider starting your hike early in the morning to avoid the heat and to ensure that you have enough time to complete the trail before dark.
- Respect wildlife: The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including snakes and lizards. Keep a safe distance from any wildlife you may encounter and do not disturb their habitat.
- Leave no trace: Follow Leave No Trace principles and pack out all of your trash and belongings.
Devil’s Playground hike
You will need to follow the dirt road to get to the trailhead. Once you get to the fork, keep left and then uphill, park by the ridge and follow down to the wash then cross the wash to follow the trail markers.
One of the highlights of the Devil’s Playground hike is the opportunity to see some of the park’s most impressive petrified wood. Along the trail, hikers will encounter several large logs that have been transformed into colorful stone. The trail also offers views of the Blue Mesa Formation, a unique geological feature composed of multicolored hills that have been eroded into a series of canyons and gullies.
Overall, Devil’s Playground is one of the best remote hikes in Petrified Forest National Park due to its unique and stunning landscapes, as well as its relatively low foot traffic. The trail is moderate in difficulty, making it accessible to hikers of various experience levels. Hiking this trail was the highlight of our visit to the park.
