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    The Petrified Forest

    3.6 (172 reviews)
    Closed 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
    Updated 2 months ago

    The Petrified Forest Photos

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    A very old tree
    Lauren S.

    I read all the reviews about it not being worth the money and my husband still wanted to come. So - is it worth the money (As of Jan 2025 - $14 per adult)? No. But seriously, what tourists sites are worth the money these days, esp ones that are privately owned and currently for sale? Is it enjoyable nonetheless, yes. Petrified trees aren't the most sexy items of nature but they are really interesting. They do have some tree stumps placed, but most are clearly where they were found. More are being revealed as the days go by. The person complaining about no coverage of the native tribes seems like they are looking for criticism--there's honestly also very little about 'Charlie' the homesteader who supposedly discovered the trees. The hike is about 1-1/2 miles total. Not really wheelchair or stroller friendly, esp in winter. Overall, if you aren't looking for an intense history lesson and you don't mind the price, it's worth it for a stop on the way to Calistoga, where you can also pay too much to see the geyser. ;) Ps. Sometimes they have Groupons.

    Plaque
    Sam B.

    I am so happy I finally stopped by the Petrified Forest. It was extremely interesting to learn about the history and support this local gem. There are two main trails to follow, both about a half a mile. The ticket to enter was only $14 and they offer free guided tours!! I highly recommend going to the free guided tours which are offered daily at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm. This makes the experience much more informative! It is definitely worth taking the time to stop by and learn about this petrified forest!

    Charee G.

    Visited here on an early weekday morning. Was the first to arrive right when they had open. Staff was warm and welcoming. We did the entire self guided tours and the views were gorgeous. Heads up, definitely bring refillable water bottle and wear comfortable footwear. I saw some people wearing flip flops and the walking paths are not flat surfaces.

    Trina H.

    This place was magical. There is ample parking and the self-guided map is helpful to understand what you see. Easy parking. Absolutely amazing!

    Sandy L.

    While our family was in the area, we spotted a sign for the Petrified Forest and, out of curiosity, decided to stop by and check it out. It's a small forest with a short hike that takes you up to see hardened lava flow and a few petrified trees. For the price, we felt there wasn't much to see. However, the staff was incredibly kind, and the gift shop was charming with a nice selection of souvenirs. Overall, it's not a must-see attraction, but it's interesting if you want to learn more about petrified trees and see some history.

    Map
    Maria R.

    This was a super fun place to come! There are not many petrified forests in the world so if you are in the area, I highly recommend you stop by! Tickets were very reasonable, and adult ti key was $15. They have an excellent map that takes you on a route though the loop to see the different trees of importance. It also gives you a little blurb about each tree. It feels very good for kids because it's not too long of walk. The main route takes about 20 minutes and is not very strenuous. There is a part that you can't go on with a wheel chair, however most of it you can go on with a wheel chair. Then there is also a bonus hike that I think is 3 miles round trip that we couldn't go on because it was raining but seemed like a fun one to do if you want to see a little extra. There is nothing around it so eat before you go. They do have a cooler with drinks you can buy however. This is not a place to spend too too long at and it is not far from downtown Calistoga- maybe 10 minutes. So it's a nice little trip to see something very unique. To my understanding this is a privately owned forest, it is not a state park. They do have a parking lot that has plenty of room!

    Mike M.

    Recommend.... You get there early when it cool... Very educational. We read all the backstories behind each key points of interest. We had a great time.

    Mark P.

    Some will no doubt see this as small hokey roadside collection of rocks that look like trees but they'll also be missing out the opportunity to really see and maybe feel something awe inspiring. I think it's one of those bucket list places, especially should be part of any redwood tour. Good God man, some of these petrified trees are thought to be upwards of 2,000 years old when they fell over ....three and a half million years ago!!! Just think of that. Was fun exploring the grounds and interesting and very thought provoking. Was a beautiful rainy day when I came and while I didn't do the tour I was able to hear enough of it and adventure about on my own. And what a beautiful drive in.

    Petrified trees
    Mariaté G.

    Great live history of Mount St Helena volcano exploding 3.4 million years ago. About a 45 minute self guided tour unless you sit on one of the benches and enjoy the views. Nice gift shop at entrance. Picnic area up front to sit and breath in fresh air and drink your water or coffee before hitting the road again. About a 15-20 minutes ride from Calistoga-up a mountain. Worth a visit.

    Entrance
    Navin K.

    Easy place to take a young family to if you're in the Calistoga area. They offer a few daily tours, or you can do a self-guided one. Parking is free, admission is $12 for adults, $6 for kids 6-11. We joined the 3 pm tour Friday after Thanksgiving and were glad we did - because we saw so much more that we'd have otherwise seen. Some of my highlights included learning about the 3.4 million year old volcanic eruption that created the petrified forest, clambering up a steep ash fall, a gorgeous view of Mount St. Helena, and seeing manzanita shrubs, with their smooth red bark, up close. They also have a nice gift shop and the ladies in our party enjoyed shopping for pretty pendants, chocolate rocks, chunky minerals, and fine jewelry. We will be back next time we are in the area.

    Lava flow
    Robert C.

    This was on the bucket list for mo other reason than having driven psst it sooo many times, saying "one day" I have to check it out. So my wife and I headed over at opening time, a year after the deadly Santa Rosa (Tubbs Fire). As it turns out they were evacuated, lost a water tank and a small outbuilding, and selective spots burned all around the property. What is remarkable is that the fire got close to the main building, hot enough to melt glass shelves inside (and the windows) and scorched the 400 year old oak in the courtyard...but there it was, fully leaved a year later. We opted for the self-directed tour, although there is a much more informative guided tour available. The walk was easy, the paths well marked and some of the views, terrain and stories on the plaques along the route were interesting. The petrified trees are simply amazing. Stone you would swear. The gift shop has plenty of touristy stuff, gems, books and petrified wood pieces (expensive), plus some nice people. It's not going to blow you away, but it is worth the visit.

    Main building g
    Amanda L.

    This was over priced for what it was worth. Parking is free it's $15 per adult for walking around. There is a gift shop and a few Plaques that talk about different types of trees in the history of them. It's semi kid friendly but there isn't a lot very engaging and less you just want a nice walk.

    Petrified rocks.

    Do not waste your money!!! It's $12 a person to get in. There is very little to see , and there are better ways to spend your money. I have enclosed two pictures so you don't have to go.

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    Page 1 of 5

    Ask the Community - The Petrified Forest

    I have difficulty walking due to lumbar issues...are there places to rest/sit on the trails?

    Yes, there are places to stop and sit along the trail.

    How much time is needed to explore...a couple of hours or is this a half day/all day thing?

    I would recommend allocating an hour to explore the trails and gift shop. More if you wish to picnic or relax on trail.

    Are the trails stroller friendly?

    Sort of. Part of the trail is also supposed to be ok with wheelchairs, but I really don't see how. If you have a sturdy yet light weight stroller (and child), it would probably be doable. I would try to have a Plan B, though, like one of those… Read more

    Is it dog friendly?

    Yes! Must be on leash though

    View All 5 Questions

    Review Highlights - The Petrified Forest

    Informative as it beautiful, this little place in an awesome locale held amazing examples of petrified wood in natural settings.

    Mentioned in 13 reviews

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    Russian River Railbikes

    Russian River Railbikes

    4.9(27 reviews)
    26.2 mi
    Large group friendly
    Budget friendly

    We had a blast on the Russian River Railbikes. This was something that I have been wanting to do…read moreand we were so glad that we went this weekend! The railbikes seat up to 4 people. Russian River Railbikes is part of the Golden Gate Railroad Museum, a non-profit organization whose purpose is to maintain, restore and run historically significant railroad equipment from the San Francisco Bay area. The guides are all volunteers from the Golden Gate Railroad Museum. The guides were friendly, helpful, and informative. You will get somewhat of a workout, although this is not strenuous. This is an activity that you can really do at any age and they are kid friendly. One of the guides stated that they have had someone in a car seat before (they have seat belts on them similar to a car) and a couple in their 80's has gone multiple times and they arrange ahead of time to have two guides on the railbike to help with pedaling. This truly is a great adventure for all ages! It's about 1 1/2 or two hours total and you will pass by a vineyard and farm. You will also go through a tunnel and stop half way where you will get out and stretch your legs. You can relax at a shaded table, dip your toes in the Russian River, or view a collapsed tunnel at this half way point. You will also have the option when you book this to purchase lunch ahead of time that you can enjoy at the half way point if you would like. It's recommended that you wear comfortable clothes, wear sunscreen, and bring any water and snacks with you on the railbike. We each brought a water bottle that came in very handy. You will have plenty of time afterwards to explore Cloverdale. An all around great experience that I highly recommend!

    Cool experience. Not many places can you ride a rail bike w 3 other people. Views were nice,…read moreweather accommodating and the vineyards were incredible.

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    Russian River Railbikes
    Russian River Railbikes
    Russian River Railbikes

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    Divine Luxury Car Service

    Divine Luxury Car Service

    5.0(7 reviews)
    8.3 mi

    From start to finish, my ride with Divine Luxury was nothing short of exceptional. I had planned a…read morespecial evening--dinner reservations in San Francisco--and I wanted the journey to feel just as memorable as the destination. Divine Luxury and the incredible Raquel, who turned what would've been a simple drive into an experience I'll remember for a long time. Raquel arrived right on time in a pristine black Suburban that looked like it just rolled out of a showroom. From the moment I stepped outside, she greeted me with a genuine smile and opened the door like I was someone important--which, for that night, I was. The vehicle was immaculate--clean leather seats, subtle luxury fragrance, and perfectly set ambient lighting. Waiting for me inside were chilled bottles of water and a carefully curated assortment of snacks, from granola bars to gourmet trail mix, tucked into a premium leather tray. I knew right away: this wasn't just transportation. This was an experience. As we pulled out of Santa Rosa, the energy in the vehicle felt calm and effortless. Raquel's driving style is composed, safe, and incredibly smooth. She handled every curve of the highway and every pocket of traffic with confidence and ease. I never once had to glance at the GPS, check the clock, or wonder if we were on schedule. I could fully relax, enjoy the views, and just be present in the moment. There's something to be said about the power of letting go of all logistics and simply enjoying the ride--and Raquel gave me that gift. What stood out even more was how in tune Raquel was with the vibe of the evening. She matched my mood perfectly. When I wanted to chat, she was engaging and warm. When I needed to zone out and mentally prepare for the night ahead, she gave me that space without a word. It was effortless on her part, but deeply appreciated on mine. When we rolled up to the restaurant in San Francisco, I stepped out feeling like a VIP. People actually looked over to see who was getting out. It wasn't about showing off--it was about feeling taken care of, respected, and elevated. Divine Luxury didn't just get me to dinner. They gave me a sense of presence, peace, and pride walking in that door. And for someone who usually juggles their own driving, parking, and planning--it made all the difference. After dinner, Raquel was right outside at the exact time we had arranged. The car was warm, the music was set to a mellow playlist, and I slipped into the back seat without a single worry in the world. The ride home was just as perfect. I even dozed off for a bit--something I'd never risk doing in a regular ride-share. That's how much trust I had in her. The best part? For the level of professionalism, comfort, and elegance Divine Luxury provides, the pricing was surprisingly competitive. It felt like an investment in a memory--and one I would gladly make again. So if you're looking for high-end, reliable, safe, and personalized transportation in Santa Rosa, Napa, Sonoma, or San Francisco, don't waste time looking elsewhere. Book with Divine Luxury. Ask for Raquel. You'll be treated like royalty, arrive in style, and most importantly, feel like the night you planned is already something special--before you even get there.

    Divine Luxury Car Service truly lives up to its name. Every experience I've had riding with Raquel…read morehas been nothing short of exceptional -- from the first text to the final drop-off. Raquel, the owner and driver, brings a rare blend of professionalism, punctuality, comfort, and effortless luxury to every ride. Her car is always pristine, her energy is laid-back and calming, and she somehow manages to offer all of this at an extremely affordable price. You feel like you're being chauffeured by someone who genuinely cares -- not just about your destination, but your entire experience. ****Booking is easy, communication is smooth, and Raquel's local knowledge adds another level of depth to the ride. Whether it's wine country tips or off-the-beaten-path gems, she knows Sonoma, Napa, and the Bay like the back of her hand. Every time Raquel drives me, it's hands down an enriching, elevated, and stress-free experience. She's not just a driver..she's a vibe.**** Highly, highly recommend Divine Luxury to anyone looking for reliable, affordable, luxury-level transportation that comes with great conversation, positive energy, and absolute peace of mind. Raquel has set a new gold standard in private transport.

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    Divine Luxury Car Service - We have an option where we drive your vehicle for a better rate

    We have an option where we drive your vehicle for a better rate

    Divine Luxury Car Service - Wine tasting in Sonoma California has never been better

    Wine tasting in Sonoma California has never been better

    Divine Luxury Car Service

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    Old Faithful Geyser of California - Old Faithful Geyser of California

    Old Faithful Geyser of California

    2.9(419 reviews)
    3.5 mi

    Did you know that the Old Faithful Geyser of Calistoga is only one of 3 Old Faithful Geysers in the…read morewhole world? So named because of the regularity in which it erupts? Well it is. For the price of $15 per adult and $9 for child, you get the privilege of watching it erupt for about 3 minutes per hour or so. There are constantly available Groupons for this place so do yourself the favor of seeking one out before you come so you can save a few pennies. There are some other attractions on site, like horses and donkeys, maybe a llama, but it was warm the day of our visit so I took part in none of that and just sat in the shaded seating areas resting and waiting. I suppose if I wanted to stay closer to 2 hours, or 3, I could have watched this thing erupt for a second time but of course I did not do that. I will say that the Old Faithful Geyser in Rotorua, New Zealand requires someone to pour in a surfactant to prompt an eruption and this one requires no similar stimulus so I guess this one in Calistoga is more....unprompted? Authentic? I am no geologist, just musing. All in all, this was a relatively family-friendly thing to do while we were already in Calistoga and I'm pleased to announce I have visited all three Old Faithful Geysers in the whole world. This was not a goal of mine but I inadvertently accomplished this feat by stopping by here so Five Stars for that alone.

    Aweful! Waste of $$. Hardly any animals and the grounds aren't very clean. Not exciting to watchread more

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    Old Faithful Geyser of California - Old Faithful Geyser

    Old Faithful Geyser

    Old Faithful Geyser of California - Old Faithful Geyser of California

    Old Faithful Geyser of California

    Old Faithful Geyser of California - Old Faithful Geyser of California

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    Old Faithful Geyser of California

    The Petrified Forest - parks - Updated May 2026

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