Natural AttractionFort Yellowstone Overlook
Travertine terraces from Mammoth Hot Springs; calcium carbonate deposition in action.
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Petrified Tree
Last Updated: January 2026
Type
Geological Formation
Accessibility
Drive-up view; short easy path to the tree; slight incline noted
Best Season
Summer and Fall
Busiest Season
Summer (July–August)
Features
Single petrified tree; fence-protected viewing area; nearby Tower Fall and Specimen Ridge area
Elevation
6,740 ft
Overview
About This Attraction
A lone petrified tree stands behind a protective fence, its once-wooden form now stone. Silica-rich groundwater replaced the organic wood over time, a process called permineralization that occurred after volcanic lahars buried the forest 50–55 million years ago. Yellowstone houses one of the largest, best-preserved petrified forests, offering a tangible record of past climates and ecosystems. The scene is a direct glimpse into Deep Time, carved by volcanic activity and forest regrowth.
Quick Facts
Type
Geological Formation
Elevation
6,740 ft
Access
Drive-up view; short easy path to the tree; slight incline noted
Main Features
Single petrified tree; fence-protected viewing area; nearby Tower Fall and Specimen Ridge area
What You'll See
A stout petrified trunk preserved in stone with an interpretive panel nearby; a short, accessible approach from the parking area
What Makes It Special
One of the largest, best-preserved petrified forests globally; trunks up to eight feet in diameter and some heights over 20 feet; circumference of a noted stump 26.5 feet
Best Time to Visit
Summer and Fall (June–September/October) after snowmelt; morning light minimizes glare and crowds peak in mid-summer.
Safety Considerations
Wildlife awareness required; stay in designated areas; fences protect the petrified tree; larger petrified forests like Specimen Ridge involve steep, loose footing; bears and wolves may be encountered in surrounding terrain
Visitor Tips
- Park early or expect limited parking during peak season.
- The short path is easy, but a slight incline may appear.
- Use interpretive signs to read the petrified wood’s mineral replacement.
- For broader petrified-forest exploring, consider Specimen Ridge hikes with proper gear and bear spray.
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ℹ️ Data Sources
yellowstone.org answersingenesis.org usgs.gov youtube.com carleton.edu petrifiedwoodmuseum.org swau.edu nps.gov yellowstonepark.com 10adventures.com a-z-animals.com 51centadventures.com wikipedia.org creation.com npshistory.com icr.org Google Reviews National Park Service YourNPGuide Editorial
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