Nizhoni Point overlooks the unconformity between the Petrified Forest Member of the Chinle Formation and the Bidahochi Formation, located about 4 miles from the north entrance of Petrified Forest National Park. The overlook is right next to the parking area and is accessible to mobility devices. There is a wayside exhibit.

Nizhoni means beautiful in Navajo, and the name is perfect for Nizhoni Point, which offers breathtaking views of the broad drainage of Lithodendron Wash coursing across the bold reddish colored and layered badlands far below.

This scenic vista point had a wide sandy area that narrowed into somewhat of a trail that extended into the badlands and my kids couldn’t resist exploring it! While the kids took off into the desert, Brian and I a nice break to sit down, relax, and enjoy the beautiful desert view.

Petrified Forest was set aside as a national monument in 1906 to preserve and protect the petrified wood for its scientific value. It is recognized today for having so much more, including a broad representation of the Late Triassic paleo-ecosystem, significant human history, clear night skies, fragile grasslands ecosystem, and unspoiled scenic vistas.

Scientific studies are ongoing at the park. Paleontologists find new fossils, including new species of plants and animals, each year. Biologists study living plants and animals, including vegetation surveys and reptile, amphibian, and mammal projects. Air quality, weather, and seismic monitoring stations constantly generate new data.