
Open the new year with a hike into the backcountry of Petrified Forest National Park/NPS
Open 2016 in the backcountry of Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona. A guided trek through the park is part of a nationwide event to encourage folks to take a hike on New Year's Day.
At Petrified Forest, avid hikers Gary and Connie Grube will be on hand to lead a four-hour hike into the park's backcountry. The area they're heading for, Martha's Butte, is well-known for its many petroglyphs etched into boulders. The Grubes have logged hundreds of miles hiking and volunteering with the park, according to park officials. Join them as they share one of their favorite gems of the Petrified Forest.
When: Friday, January 1st, 2016, 9 a.m.- 1 p.m.
Where: Martha’s Butte & Beyond
Distance: 4-5 miles
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Meet for the hike at: Dry Wash Bridge; park just south of milepost 22 on the main park road.
Hikes are free; regular park entrance fees apply. Dogs on leash welcome. Inclement weather or extreme mud will cancel. Participants must wear appropriate footwear and carry water. Hats, sunblock, snacks, and walking sticks are advised. Not able to attend? Ask at the visitor center to take an Off the Beaten Path excursion on your own. RSVP for the New Year's Day hike appreciated; contact Sarah Hervé at sarah_herve@nps.gov or 928-524-6228, ext. 264