Across the Painted Desert on Route 66
The iconic Route 66, a ribbon of asphalt that once connected the American heartland, continues its westward journey from New Mexico into the vast expanse of Apache County, Arizona. Here, travelers find themselves immersed in the heart of Navajo Nation, a landscape rich in history, culture, and breathtaking geological formations. This stretch of the Mother Road offers a captivating journey through the Painted Desert, the Petrified Forest National Park, and a scattering of small towns, each with its own unique story to tell. Some remain vibrant trading posts, while others stand as silent reminders of a bygone era, ghostly relics along the historic highway.
This section of Route 66 offers a glimpse into a landscape shaped by time, wind, and water. The Painted Desert, with its kaleidoscope of colors, is a prominent feature of this drive, inviting travelers to explore its geological wonders and appreciate its natural beauty. Beyond the desert, the Petrified Forest holds ancient secrets etched in stone, showcasing the area’s rich history.
The Painted Desert, a sprawling badlands region, is located in the Four Corners area, extending from the Arizona-New Mexico border towards the eastern edge of the Grand Canyon National Park. What sets this landscape apart is its striking palette of colors. While the familiar red rock formations are abundant, the Painted Desert also boasts hues of lavender, gray, orange, and yellow, creating a surreal and mesmerizing vista. These vibrant colors are the result of mineral-rich layers of sediment that have been exposed over millions of years through erosion.
The name "Painted Desert" dates back to the 16th century, during Francisco Vazquez de Coronado’s expedition in 1540 in search of the mythical Seven Cities of Cibola. Coronado, upon witnessing the area’s colorful expanse, christened it "El Desierto Pintado," which translates to "The Painted Desert." This name has endured for centuries, capturing the essence of this remarkable region. A significant portion of the Painted Desert lies within the boundaries of the Petrified Forest National Park, offering visitors easy access to its wonders. Additional sections of the desert extend north of Interstate 40, within the Navajo Nation, where off-road exploration is permitted with the appropriate permits.
As travelers cross the Arizona state line, they are greeted by dramatic vermilion cliffs lining both sides of the highway. These vibrant formations set the stage for the colorful journey ahead, offering a taste of the geological wonders that await. This section of Route 66 provides a tangible connection to the Mother Road’s glory days. The towns remain small, retaining their historic charm. Many Native Americans continue to rely on traditional trading posts for their livelihoods, preserving cultural heritage. And, perhaps most evocative, sections of the original pavement, though often weathered and worn, still exist, whispering tales of a time when Route 66 was the primary artery connecting the East and West.
The original alignment of Route 66 between Lupton and Chambers largely parallels Interstate 40, primarily to the north. However, some segments of this original road are in disrepair, transitioning to gravel or dirt surfaces, making navigation challenging. From Chambers westward toward Holbrook, the old road either disappears altogether or traverses private property, rendering it inaccessible to the public. Given these limitations, the most practical approach for travelers seeking to explore the Painted Desert is to utilize Interstate 40, taking advantage of the exits that provide access to points of interest along the way. This allows for convenient exploration of the region’s highlights without the challenges of navigating fragmented or deteriorated sections of the original Route 66 alignment.
Delving Deeper: Geology and History of the Painted Desert
The Painted Desert‘s mesmerizing colors are a direct result of its unique geological composition. The area is primarily composed of stratified layers of sedimentary rock, including shale, mudstone, and sandstone. These layers were deposited over millions of years during the Triassic Period, a time when the region was a vast floodplain traversed by meandering rivers. The varying colors are due to the presence of different minerals within the rock. Iron oxides, for example, are responsible for the red, orange, and brown hues, while manganese creates shades of purple and lavender. The constant forces of erosion, including wind and water, have sculpted these layers into the dramatic mesas, buttes, and canyons that characterize the landscape.
The Petrified Forest National Park, which encompasses a significant portion of the Painted Desert, offers visitors a chance to witness another remarkable geological phenomenon: the petrified wood for which the park is named. Millions of years ago, trees were uprooted by floods and carried downstream, eventually becoming buried in sediment. Over time, the organic material of the wood was replaced by minerals, primarily silica, resulting in the formation of colorful petrified logs. These logs, scattered across the landscape, are a testament to the area’s ancient past.
Beyond its geological significance, the Painted Desert holds a rich human history. Native American tribes have inhabited the region for thousands of years, leaving behind a legacy of cultural heritage. The Navajo Nation, which surrounds the Petrified Forest National Park, continues to maintain strong ties to the land. Visitors can experience Navajo culture through trading posts, art galleries, and cultural centers.
Experiencing the Painted Desert Today
Today, the Painted Desert offers a variety of opportunities for exploration and discovery. The Petrified Forest National Park provides well-maintained hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and educational exhibits that allow visitors to learn about the area’s geology, paleontology, and human history. The park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild.
For those seeking a more immersive experience, off-road travel within the Navajo Nation is permitted with the necessary permits. This allows for access to remote areas of the Painted Desert and the opportunity to discover hidden gems. However, it is important to respect the land and the culture of the Navajo people by following all regulations and guidelines.
Whether you are a seasoned Route 66 enthusiast, a nature lover, or a history buff, a journey through the Painted Desert is sure to be an unforgettable experience. The vibrant colors, dramatic landscapes, and rich cultural heritage of this region offer a glimpse into the heart of the American Southwest. As you traverse this section of the Mother Road, take the time to appreciate the beauty and wonder that surrounds you, and to reflect on the stories that have shaped this remarkable landscape.
Practical Tips for Traveling Through the Painted Desert
- Plan your trip: Research the area and identify the points of interest that you want to visit. Check the operating hours and entrance fees for the Petrified Forest National Park.
- Pack appropriately: The desert environment can be harsh, so be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat. Wear comfortable shoes for hiking.
- Respect the environment: Stay on designated trails, avoid disturbing the petrified wood, and pack out all of your trash.
- Be aware of the weather: The desert can experience extreme temperature fluctuations, so be prepared for both hot and cold conditions.
- Respect Navajo culture: If you plan to visit the Navajo Nation, learn about their culture and customs. Obtain the necessary permits for off-road travel.
- Take your time: Allow yourself plenty of time to explore the Painted Desert and the Petrified Forest National Park. There is much to see and discover.
- Capture the memories: Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and vibrant colors of the Painted Desert.
- Support local businesses: Stop at trading posts and art galleries to support the local economy and learn about Navajo culture.
- Stay safe: Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid hazards such as wildlife and extreme weather.
- Enjoy the journey: A trip through the Painted Desert is a unique and unforgettable experience. Take the time to appreciate the beauty and wonder of this remarkable landscape.