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The Blue Mesa RoadThe Blue Mesa is one of the most beautiful areas of the Painted Desert and is found at the east centre section (yes you can tell by my spelling that I am not american) of Petrified Forest National Park by driving a loop road. You have arrived at your destination, here you can stretch your legs and take some pictures of a truly inspirational landscape. Can you see the different coloured layers in the rock formations?
The coloured bands that you see in the rock formations indicate many different sediment layers in the soil, dating all the way back to the triassic era (225 million years ago) give or take a few weeks. Yes this wonderful sight really is that old. You will not find any trails here, so you won't be able to go wandering off and self explore as the soil is very delicate. Many petrified logs can be seen scattered across the landscape half buried in the clay. Holbrook is the nearest location to find a hotel room near to the Petrified Forest where there is a Holiday Inn but the city of Flagstaff is not too far away and has more amenities if you are visiting other sites nearby.
I have included a map of the park to help you find your way around.
Amethyst and Citrine... Where as Amethyst has been found in petrified logs in the Painted Desert, you will not find any Citrine. Most of the citrine used in jewelry today is Amethyst which has been heated giving the gemstone it's lemon yellow colour. Citrine obtained by mining is very rare indeed.
Return from Blue Mesa to Painted Desert
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