Are dogs allowed on Painted Desert Rim Trail?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Painted Desert Rim Trail but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

Do I need a permit to hike Painted Desert Rim Trail?

No, Painted Desert Rim Trail does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Painted Desert Rim Trail?

Painted Desert Rim Trail is rated easy. It is 1.1 miles long with 295 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

What is the best season to hike Painted Desert Rim Trail?

Painted Desert Rim Trail is best hiked in spring and fall. Conditions vary year to year — check the trail status and weather forecast before your visit.

Is Painted Desert Rim Trail suitable for kids?

Yes, Painted Desert Rim Trail is considered kid-friendly. As always with children, bring water and snacks, pace yourself, and watch for weather changes and wildlife.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

We don't have current condition data for this trail. Check with the land manager before you go.

See Arizona trail conditions

EasyOut and Back

Petrified Forest National Park/Arizona

Painted Desert Rim Trail

Chambers, Arizona

1.1 mi

Distance

295 ft

Elev. Gain

23m

Est. Time

Out & Back

Route Type

Easy

Difficulty

About This Trail

The Painted Desert Rim Trail, located in Petrified Forest National Park near Chambers, Arizona, offers hikers a relatively short 1.1-mile round trip journey through stunning desert landscapes. The trail traverses along the edge of the Painted Desert, providing panoramic views of the colorful badlands, a highlight of this unique region. With an elevation gain of approximately 295 feet, this out-and-back dirt trail is moderately easy, catering to a wide range of hikers although it is not wheelchair accessible.

Trail Conditions

Unknown

We have no current condition data for this trail. Check with the operator before you go, and submit a report below if you've been recently.

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Hazards & Warnings

exposure to sununeven terrain

Elevation Profile

Min:1,768 ft

Max:1,782 ft

90 ft

Trail Details

Route Type: Out & Back
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

Managed by National Park Service

Verify before you go

Source of truth

National Park Service unit page
Alerts, conditions, and the unit's plan-your-visit page.

Verify by phone or mail

Operator:928-524-6228
Address:Exit 311, Interstate 40 · Petrified Forest, AZ · 86028

Best Seasons

Spring Fall

Highlights

desert vistascolorful badlands

Reviews

No reviews yet

Be the first to share your experience and help others plan their visit.

Legacy import — verify before navigating

Path geometry came from our pre-launch legacy database. Routes have not yet been re-verified against the operator and may differ from the actual trail.

Hunt context