Have you ever wondered what it is like to be surrounded by remnants of an ancient volcanic eruption? Well, you do not have to wonder anymore… Welcome to Petrified Forest, conveniently located not too far away from Calistoga, California!

What to Expect at the Petrified Forest in Calistoga?

The forest is just outside Calistoga, in the heart of Napa Valley. It is easy to find, with plenty of parking and clear signs. A road with a telling name, "Petrified Forest Road," leads from downtown Calistoga to the forest. The forest is open every day, with gates closing at 5 pm. We recommend coming early because there is more to see than you might initially expect.

Here is what you will notice right away:

• Easy access and good parking
• Dog-friendly (just keep your furry pal on a leash)
• Clean restrooms near the entrance.

Here, you are entering the site of a prehistoric disaster. A massive eruption from Mount St. Helena buried an ancient forest in volcanic ash—an astonishing 3.4 million years ago. It is a rare opportunity to witness Earth's dynamic past, frozen (quite literally) in time.

Walking the Petrified Forest Trails

The forest has two main trails: the Main Trail and the Meadow Trail. Both are easy to follow and packed with fascinating sights.

Main Trail (1/2 Mile Loop):

1) See giant petrified redwoods up close
2) Read signs with information on the petrification process along the way
3) Check out volcanic ash deposits and learn about how trees turn to stone
4) Look for the "Tunnel Tree" (it is 6 feet wide and 120 feet long). This is one of the world's best-preserved petrified trees

Meadow Trail (1/2 Mile Out and Back):

1) Ends with the ash fall deposit that you can climb as far as the "Do Not Go Beyond This Point" sigh
2) Pass the meadow with a beautiful view of Mount St. Helena
3) There are several benches near the Ash Fall, where you can rest and enjoy the view.

The trails are made of compacted dirt – make sure you wear comfortable shoes. Winters tend to be muddier than the rest of the year – make sure you account for that, too. This is an overall gratifying and educational experience with a time-traveling vibe.

The Story of Calistoga's Petrified Forest

This forest was knocked flat and buried by an ancient volcano. An eruption from nearby Mount St. Helena blasted white rhyolite ash, lava, and pumice. As the ash cooled in the air, it settled gently over the redwoods, preserving them beneath layers of volcanic material.

Over time, water filtered through the ash, carrying minerals into the buried trees. This process—called permineralization—transformed the wood into stone, capturing even the tiniest details like growth rings and bark texture. In some places, druzy quartz crystals formed within the fossilized trunks, adding a glittering touch of beauty.

Discovering the Petrified Forest

The story of the Petrified Forest is not only about its creation (the one that dates back to the volcanic eruption in the Pliocene Epoch) but also the story of its discovery, which is relatively recent.

It all started with "Petrified Charley" (Charles Evans), a farmer who discovered the first fossilized log in 1870 while clearing his pasture. That accidental find sparked scientific curiosity, attracting experts from all over, including O.C. Marsh of Yale and renowned paleobotanist Ralph Chaney from UC Berkeley.

Robert Louis Stevenson, the author of Treasure Island, visited the forest and wrote about it in The Silverado Squatters.

Even Luther Burbank, a famous plant expert, explored these trails. Now, you have the chance to walk the same grounds.
More Fascinating Finds:

• 🌳 Some of the valley oaks here are over 500 years old

• 👑 The "Queen" tree—a petrified redwood—is 8 feet wide and 65 feet long. It was about 2,000 years old when the volcano hit

• 🌲🌲 The "Twins" are two redwoods that might have once grown in the same fairy ring.

The 2017 Wildfire: Nature's Power and Recovery

In October 2017, a wildfire swept through this area with terrifying speed. Winds hit 70 miles per hour, and flames raced from Napa into Sonoma County.

But here’s the wild part: fire doesn’t just destroy—it can also renew. As I walked the trails, I saw signs of regrowth everywhere.

Shopping at the Petrified Forest Nature Shop: Petrified Wood, Crystals, Fossils, and Gifts

Before you leave, make sure you visit the Nature Shop, which is right by the entrance. The shop is full of treasures, including petrified wood and fossils from around the world, crystals, jewelry, books for all ages, and fun, unique gifts for rockhounds and nature lovers.

I picked up a piece of petrified wood and a shiny quartz crystal. It's a cool way to remember your adventure.

Tips for Visiting the Petrified Forest

Here are a few things we would recommend keeping in mind:

• Wear sturdy shoes - the trails are not paved
• Bring a water bottle - it can get warm
• Give yourself at least an hour - there is a lot to see!
• Take photos - but do NOT collect rocks or wood here because ROCKHOUNDING IS PROHIBITED.

The Petrified Forest is by no means the only adventure in the Calistoga area. Below, we will give you some suggestions for exploration.

Discover Calistoga

Imagine a place where you can soak in natural hot springs, sip world-famous wine, and watch a real geyser erupt—all in one day, maybe even simultaneously? Welcome to Calistoga! A charming town at the northern edge of California's Napa Valley, where all that is possible!

In Downtown Calistoga, everything is just a short stroll away. Walk from your hotel to boutique shops, local art galleries, cozy cafés, and the lively weekend farmers' market along Lincoln Avenue. Starting your stroll, you cannot tell what you will discover -- a handmade gift, a freshly baked pastry, or a unique piece of local art.

The Town of Calistoga – From Petrified Forests to Perfect Pools in Wine Country

Just a short drive from downtown, there is one of the three "Old Faithful" geysers (the other two are in Yellowstone National Park and in New Zealand). It is a spectacular natural show, with bursts of steam shooting skyward every 30 to 40 minutes. The site also has picnic tables, friendly goats and alpacas, and fun geology exhibits. It is a perfect place for families or anyone who loves a bit of earth science with their sightseeing.

Old Faithful Geyser of California

Calistoga is known for its soothing mineral pools, rejuvenating mud baths, and boutique spas. If you are looking to relax in geothermal waters, you can choose from several hot spring resorts just minutes from downtown. Each is unique, offering its own take on the classic Calistoga experience.

Indian Springs Resort: Swim in a vast, warm, Olympic-sized mineral pool and try a classic Calistoga mud bath.

Calistoga Spa Hot Springs: Four different mineral pools and a variety of spa treatments. Great spot for families.

Golden Haven Hot Springs: Private indoor mineral tubs and soothing mud baths. It is perfect for couples or solo relaxation.