The Petrified Forest National Park (PFNP) provided a look into their agenda for the first part of 2020. PNFP’s Public Information Officer Sarah Herve announced that there will be changes in entrance fees, upcoming construction and no shortage of things to do at the park.
Herve said the park will be rebuilding a few bridges and providing maintenance to some of the roads. Due to the much-needed construction, Herve explained that starting Thursday, Jan. 2, only half of the park will be accessible without having to travel through Holbrook to view the other side. “The park will be accessible from the interstate to the Blue Mesa Loop and those who want to see the other half will have to enter through the south end of the park from Highway 180,” said Herve.
Though it may be a surprise for some visiting the area, it could mean extra traffic and revenue for Holbrook and its businesses. Depending on their agenda, visitors could wind up utilizing some of the many lodging and dining accommodations on their way through town.
Visitors will be able to access Rainbow Forest Museum, Giant Logs, Rainbow Forest Lodge Giftshop, Long Logs, Agate House, Southern Wilderness Area and Crystal Forest Trail from Highway 180. “It will be a little strange but it’s to make our bridges safer and hopefully it will go quickly.” According to PFNP, most of the major construction is expected to be complete by March 28, weather permitting.
Also, on the list of changes to come is PNFP entrance fee. Before Jan 1, the fee to enter the park was $40 for an annual pass, $20 per vehicle, $10 per person or bicycle and $10 for a single motorcycle pass each good for seven days. Beginning Jan. 1, each fee will increase by five dollars. According to PFNP, the increase is to continue the preservation and protection of the park. Superintendent Jeannine McElveen stated that the last increase was in 2015 and the funds are used towards the development of new programs, site maintenance, exhibits and many other projects aimed at preserving the park.
Herve also provided the new hiking schedule for the new year. Beginning Jan. 18, Matt and Dorenda Walters will be leading those who sign up on back country hikes through various locations across the park. The hikes will take place on select days with the last hike scheduled on Jan. 26. Anyone seeking more information can call (515) 724-4493.
Herve also announced that the cultural demonstrations in the Painted Desert Inn will continue. Herve said the park has volunteers who make a variety of things related to their culture while visitors are given the opportunity to ask questions. “Generally, it’s Native Americans making jewelry or making some kind of craft, and they talk with them (visitors) about what they’re doing.” Herve said they offer a diverse selection of demonstrations including Navajo, Hopi and Zuni.
Also continuing this year is PFNP’s Paleontology Labs. Visitors will get to view the process of cleaning fossils. PFNP has staff that will provide education to onlookers while they demonstrate their techniques. Those interested can participate on Sundays, Wednesday and Thursdays.
All schedules and fee scales can be located on their website at www.nps.gov.
