One Of The Most Breathtaking Wonders In America Is Hiding Right Here In Northern California
By Courtnie Erickson|Published April 13, 2023
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Courtnie Erickson
Author
From Southern Utah to the Panhandle in Idaho, Courtnie Erickson has lived in what she believes are the best (and the most beautiful!) areas in the country. She graduated with a journalism degree from Utah State University and has more than 15 years of professional writing experience. You’ll likely see her with a Dr. Pepper in her hand and a pair of running shoes on her feet. Courtnie is a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState.
There is no shortage of natural wonders in Northern California. From Lake Shasta to the Half Dome in Yosemite National Park, there are some truly awe-inspiring scenes to admire. But, one lesser-known natural wonder in Northern California is truly breathtaking. In fact, it may be one of the most remarkable in America. It is the Petrified Forest in Calistoga.
The Petrified Forest in Calistoga, California is home to fascinating petrified redwood trees. If you travel more than 3 million years back in time, you would see these trees in all of their glory.
This petrified forest is considered one of the finest examples in the entire world of a preserved ancient forest. Just seven miles northeast of the property is an extinct volcano called Mt. St. Helena. Its powerful blast buried the trees and caused their petrification.
This petrification process took thousands of years and the forest remained buried for millions of years before it was discovered in 1870 by a Swedish homesteader. Throughout the years, individuals from all over the country have visited this forest, including writers and others looking for a little inspiration.
Today, when you visit the Petrified Forest, you can admire this remarkable natural wonder on one of the many trails. The main trail is a 0.5-mile loop that takes you to several petrified tree exhibits and provides information along the way about the petrification process and the discovery of the trees.
If you’d like to capture views of Mt. St. Helena, the Meadow Trail is an absolute must. This short 0.5-mile trail takes you through small meadows and ends with a view of the extinct volcano that created this remarkable forest.
You can easily spend an afternoon exploring this incredible area. The petrified trees may be the highlight of this area but the forest views are just as beautiful.
The Petrified Forest in Calistoga, California is open daily. There is a small admission fee based on age and children under the age of six are free. You can learn more about this incredible natural wonder in Northern California on the Petrified Forest’s website.
Have you ever explored the Petrified Forest in Calistoga, California? What did you think of this natural wonder? Please share your experiences with us in the comments.
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