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Hikes/United States/Arizona/Petrified Forest National Park
Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
23 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
4.3 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
1h
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Martha’s Butte Hike Route Guide

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Table of contents

Martha’s Butte is a hike in Arizona’s Petrified Forest National Park that reveals ancient petroglyphs and the moonlike landscape of this unique park. This region was inhabited about 650 years ago, and depictions of animals, people, and shapes are carefully preserved on rocks around Martha's Butte. The origin of the name, or who Martha was, is unknown. Expect light traffic on this route, which will require some route-finding.

Route Description for Martha’s Butte Hike

The Martha's Butte hike reveals an incredibly well-preserved set of petroglyphs surrounding a butte in the lunar landscape of Arizona’s Petrified Forest National Park. This hike does require some route-finding, so we recommend downloading a GPS track ahead of time to help you find your way. This hike is moderately difficult and suitable for most skill levels.

Please remember not to touch the petroglyphs. The oils from our hands can affect the integrity of the images, and once they’re lost, they’re gone forever. Take as many photos as you like, though!

From the trailhead, hike to Dry Wash and follow the wash and then take a right where the trail pulls out of the wash. Hike west to the butte. The trail loops the butte before heading back. Take your time around the butte, admiring the people, animals, and shapes drawn on the rocks. When you’re ready, retrace your steps to the trailhead.

Getting to the Martha’s Butte Hike Trailhead

The trailhead for the Martha's Butte Hike is on Petrified Forest Road.

Route Information for Martha’s Butte Hike

  • Backcountry Campground:

    No

  • When to do:

    February-November

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    Poor

  • Crowd Levels:

    Low

  • Route Type:

    Loop

Martha’s Butte Hike Elevation Graph

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