blue mesa

Like the other spots in this park, not overwhelming but best enjoyed slowly and thoroughly. So glad we had plenty of time this day, as it was an unplanned detour and we were able to appreciate the colors and textures of the terrain.

Of the things we did in petrified forest national park this loop drive was the best part. The views are great. We were trying to beat a blizzard to the Grand Canyon so we did not have a lot of time but this loop is a must do. You don't even need to get out of the car if you do not want to but I definitely would get out.

What complete and utter perfection. I have never seen anything like the colors of the mesa. Amazing formations. If you had days you still couldn't take it all in. I will look forward to a return visit.

The desert really does appear blue here and pops out at you with the surrounding red sandstone. Great for pictures in the late afternoon early evening

Do not bypass The Blue Mesa Loop. It is INCREDIBLE!!!! It features a one way loop with various overlook scenic views of the banded badlands with pieces of petrified logs scattered about. There is also a one-mile, asphalt, loop trail that descends into the hills of the badlands (Hiking Difficulty: according to the park's official informative pamphlet, it is considered moderate to strenuous). If you have time and if your body is able to cooperate with the hike, do it. Opinion and Recommendations: Out of all the natural scenic attractions that Petrified Forest National Park offers, I believe this one was the most spectacular. As you drive the scenic loop, it just keeps getting better and better. In addition, the hiking trail at the end of the loop was the cherry on top of this "cake". We were amazed at the blues, reds, and grey colors of sediment layers that are visually stunning, which can be seen up close if you take the hike. Some recommendations: take plenty of water, a camera, sun protection (eye glasses, hat, sunscreen), good walking shoes, and be watchful for snakes. We encountered one underneath a bush, next to the trail. According to another hiker, he said it was a baby rattler (see picture). An important factor to keep in mind, the hike uphill is strenuous, at least in my opinion. Overall, I highly recommend that you visit The Blue Mesa, you will not be disappointed.

The title says it all. Lots of petrified logs tumbling down ravines. Loose small chunks that begged to go home with me--but be assured, stealing these will result in a big fine. There are plenty of places to buy your petrified souvenirs. This trail has a steep beginning/end.

The Blue Mesa was my favorite spot in a truly spectacular National Park. The colors and shear beauty of this area is amazing. Blue Mesa is approximately mid way in the park on a turn off side road. We almost drove past it, which would have been a real shame. While there be sure to also hike along the trail, which meanders down from the top. The views change and get more spectacular with each turn. If you plan on hiking the trails, please be sure to bring plenty of water and wear a hat and use sunblock.

Incredible! I don't know what else to say about the blue mesa. The colors are amazing and see how perfectly the layers are you would think that it was manmade. I was completely unaware of this place at the park but after seeing it, I want to make sure everyone knows. Make sure you hit the Blue Mesa trail and walk down to the Blue Badlands. You will be blown away staring at the mounds and their layers of color. It is truly a sight to see and one you don't want to miss!

I read about Blue Mesa on Tripadvisor and decided that I didn't want to miss it. We're so glad we took the time to check it out. So gorgeous and very different from the Painted Desert reddish colors. We wanted to hike a two mile loop trail, but were only able to go about a half a mile since it was over 100 degrees that day. We plan to return in spring when the weather should be more tolerable. It's that beautiful that we want to go back!

The landscape in this area has quite different colors than in the Kachina point. Here the layers of the little hills are mostly white and blue (that´s the reason for the name), while in the Kachina point the layer are reddish and brownish.But they are equally beautiful to see.The trip to get in the Blue Mesa is a bit longer them we thought, but it was worthy. I though interesting specially to see some petrified wood (logs) quite close to the visitor´s/parking area.There was a board explaining that a log had once fell from the top of a hill, showing that the forest is a living entity in continuous change.

One of the most interesting parts of the park. Do not miss it. If you pick only one turnout, make it this one. One of the best photo ops though has no pull off so keep your eyes open and pull over on the side to get good shots.

This one is off the main path south to the Petrified Forest but it does offer a nice view. If you have time definitely make the jaunt out to it otherwise your time is better spent roaming the trails near the main visitors center.

As we entered Petrified Forest National Park, we asked the park ranger which sites we should be sure to see. He highly recommended Blue Mesa and Giant Logs Loop. Both were good recommendations.Blue Mesa is uniquely beautiful – unlike anything we’ve ever seen. The colors and varying levels of the terrain provide beautiful views. One must leave the main drive in the park to drive a loop road to Blue Mesa. If time and physical ability allow, taking the short 1-mile trail gives a different perspective. If not, stop at the viewpoints and enjoy the amethyst, white, and tan colors of the terrain. This is a must see site.

Stunning formations and color. The access to this formation is pretty challenging but you get a great view of it from the road as well. Don't miss it!

As the title says. It is worth the time, a beautiful sight. The loop doesn't take to long, if the traffic is low, and it is a nice view.