The Blue Mesa Trail at Petrified Forest National Park is a 1 mile (1.6km) loop on a steep path that winds through vibrant blue, purple and gray badlands dotted with colorful petrified wood.
The Blue Mesa Trail
Badlands are a dry terrain where softer sedimentary rocks and clay-rich soils have been eroded extensively by wind and water. They are characterized by steep slopes and minimal vegetation; they commonly include canyons, ravines, gullies, buttes, mesas and hoodoos. They are often difficult to navigate by foot.
Luckily there is a paved walkway here that makes it easy to explore.
The Blue Mesa Trail
bands of blue, gray and purple
The Blue Mesa Trail
The Blue Mesa Trail
The striped slopes have a subdued palette.
blue bands
close-up of sediment
Blue Mesa Trail
From the higher elevations, I find great views of the surrounding area of Billing’s Gap and various washes.
view from top of Blue Mesa Trail to the surrounding area
Blue Mesa Trail
view from top of Blue Mesa Trail to the surrounding area
view from top of Blue Mesa Trail to the surrounding area
view from top of Blue Mesa Trail to the surrounding area
*Tuesday, May 15, 2018*
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On Sundays, I post about hikes or walks that I have taken in my travels; I may also post on other unrelated subjects. I will use these posts to participate in Jo’s Monday Walks or any other challenges that catch my fancy.
This post is in response to Jo’s Monday Walk: The Last Lap.
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