Snow falls again on the Petrified Forest

October 29, 5:13 PMPetrified Forest National Park ExaminerKaren Sweeny-Justice

Previous Next

2 comments Print Email RSS Subscribe

Subscribe

Get alerts when there is a new article from the Petrified Forest National Park Examiner. Read Examiner.com's terms of use.

Email Address   Include other special offers from Examiner.com Terms of Use

Snow flurries are falling again this afternoon at the Petrified Forest National Park. The snow that fell yesterday morning melted a bit, but another couple of inches fell in the wee hours today. While not enough to do more than coat the Painted Desert white, the snow did cause a short delay in the opening of the park's 28 mile drive.

When ice or snow is covering the road, the Park must send personnel out to check that the road is passable and not icy on overpasses, which tend to freeze before other surfaces. The Park's official winter policy is stated on their website.

Essentially, if Interstate 40 is open, then the Painted Desert Visitor Center at Exit 311, is open. Winter hours for the building are 8:00 am to 5:00 pm MST. In addition to information, visitors can purchase books and souvenirs, and watch the 20 minute film about the Petrified Forest. Visitors with internet access can check the status of Interstate 40 on the official ADOT website. One of the interstate cameras that ADOT operates is located close to the entrance of the park. Those with cell phones can call 511.