This hike begins on the north side of scenic Utah State Route 24 in the western section of this underrated park. The distance of this moderate to strenuous hike is 3.6 miles in total. Give yourself two hours to hike up to and around the scarlet-rock plateau behind prominent Chimney Rock. The panoramic views here, especially of Waterpocket Fold, a 100-mile-long “geological wrinkle”, are incredible. It’s also a great place to see the sunset.
The Painted Desert is officially a part of the Petrified Forest National Wilderness Area. This moderately difficult backcountry hike begins at the historic Painted Desert Inn. There’s not exactly a clear official trail here but give yourself at least an hour to complete an out-and-back hike of at least two miles through the largely pristine wilderness of a petrified forest. You can camp here with a free permit.