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    Hikes/United States/Arizona/Petrified Forest National Park

    Martha’s Butte Hike

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Moderate
    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
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    4.3 km
    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
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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    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.

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    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

    • 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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    Martha’s Butte Hike Reviews

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