When it comes to ancient forests, Mississippi has got one of the best around — and that’s because it’s home to one of the only petrified forests in the U.S. The land the forest occupies is privately owned. Luckily, though, it’s maintained as a National Natural Landmark and open to the public year-round. Dubbed a “natural phenomenon,” the forest is a must-visit for all ages. Take a look:
Like many of Mississippi’s best sites, the Petrified Forest is located in a small town. You’ll find it in Flora, which is about 30 minutes north of Jackson.
James C/TripAdvisor The forest is open year-round (except Thanksgiving and Christmas). During the summer season, which is April 1st to Labor Day, it’s open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The rest of the year, it’s open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Bound to be unlike any other forest you’ve visited this one is full of ancient trees that have been transformed into stone through the process of petrification.
Sheila M/TripAdvisor The stone trees are millions of years in the making! It all began with severe floods, which tore down everything in their paths, including large fir and maple trees. Over the years, more flooding deposited sand and silt over these sunken giants, setting the petrification process in motion.
According to experts, the trees were “ancient giants when they were alive.”
Geart Bakker/Google It’s estimated that some of the trees were at least 1,000 years old and over 100’ tall when toppled by the flood waters.
A paved nature trail winds through the ancient forest, making it easy to explore.
Steve Saxton/Google According to the forest’s website, the self-guided trail spans just “6 blocks.”
The trail is lined with various points of interest, like Caveman’s Bench. The popular spot offers a unique glimpse into pre-historic times.
delorey1/TripAdvisor It’s also a great photo-op, so be sure to bring your camera.
Lots of informative signage makes the hike as educational as it is unique.
Chris Gaun/Google
At the end of the trail, you’ll find a museum that contains an impressive collection of fossils…
AdamAK47/TripAdvisor
….petrified wood, and minerals from around the world.
Steve Saxton/Google
There’s also a gift shop, where you can purchase a piece of petrified wood to remember your journey through time.
Steve Saxton/Google
Learn more about the forest and how it came to be in the video below.
James C/TripAdvisor
The forest is open year-round (except Thanksgiving and Christmas). During the summer season, which is April 1st to Labor Day, it’s open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The rest of the year, it’s open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sheila M/TripAdvisor
The stone trees are millions of years in the making! It all began with severe floods, which tore down everything in their paths, including large fir and maple trees. Over the years, more flooding deposited sand and silt over these sunken giants, setting the petrification process in motion.
Geart Bakker/Google
It’s estimated that some of the trees were at least 1,000 years old and over 100’ tall when toppled by the flood waters.
Steve Saxton/Google
According to the forest’s website, the self-guided trail spans just “6 blocks.”
delorey1/TripAdvisor
It’s also a great photo-op, so be sure to bring your camera.
Chris Gaun/Google
AdamAK47/TripAdvisor
The Petrified Forest is located at 124 Forest Park Rd., Flora, MS 39071. For more information, call (601) 879-8189. You can also visit the Petrified Forest website or Facebook page.
So, ever been to Mississippi’s Petrified Forest? Know of another incredible natural wonder worth exploring? Tell us in the comments section.
This isn’t the only place in Mississippi where you’ll find ancient trees. Learn about another here.
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