Where's the forest, oh it's petrified

One of the last destinations I had planned to see was the Petrified Forest National Park.  I had heard of the park and read about some of the things that were there but I had no idea how vast and extensive the area was.  I entered from the lesser known south entrance and proceeded into the park without much knowledge other than the map they gave me at the gate. 

Let me stop here and say how much I am a fan of the National Park systems Annual pass!  This pass that I paid $80 for has gotten me into every single national park I have entered for free.  Yes I know I bought the pass but it has paid for itself and then some.  Today's park for example was to have been $25.  Grand Canyon was $35 for each side and Yellowstone was $30.  I have been to other lesser know parks too so the savings is invaluable.  This pass not got me in but if I had my family with me, they would have been included too for the same pass!

Ok, back to the Petrified Forest NP.  This place is so barren and full of mounds and hills.  The "forest" has long been gone but you can see the remnants of the trees everywhere!  Some look like they were cut for cord wood many millions of years ago and left laying on the ground.  It was mesmerizing! 
There were many places to turn off the main path and go trail hiking for a bit.  I could have explored the area all day.  Then I came to the painted hills area that was like nothing I have ever seen before.  Now throughout this whole trip, I keep seeing things that amaze me and this didn't disappoint.  Hope you agree!  Next up... Eastbound and down!