If you’re looking for a unique adventure, travel to Flora, Mississippi, and visit the Mississippi Petrified Forest. The Forest is located just twenty miles north of Jackson, off highway 49, and provides visitors with the opportunity to travel through time. This destination is perfect for anyone interested in geology, history, or just an exceptional day trip out in nature.
What is a Petrified Forest?
The Mississippi Petrified Forest is a protected area made up of ancient trees that have been preserved through a natural process of fossilization. The trees in this coverage date back to the early Cenozoic age, around thirty-six million years ago. While petrification has transformed the wood to stone, the original texture of the trees has remained intact, providing rare views of what our world looked like millions of years ago.
The History of the Petrified Forest
The opening of the Mississippi Petrified Forest dates back to the 1960s. The forest was initially located on a private property that had been set to become a housing development. However, the discovery of the petrified trees led to the creation of the Mississippi Petrified Forest in 1963. The land has since been owned and managed by the Mississippi Forestry Commission.
Amazing Fossils and Scenery
The Mississippi Petrified Forest covers over forty acres of land with trails that take you through an array of terrain and fossils. Visitors will encounter a significant number of petrified wood logs, branches, stumps, and even some large pieces of petrified palm. There are also other fossils on view such as ammonites, which are extinct marine animals that would have lived millions of years ago.
As you hike through the forest, you will get a chance to witness the most important and exciting aspect of the petrified wood: The Colors. The natural minerals surrounding the tree’s wood provide unique and vibrant colors like red, yellow, and green. The highest concentration of colors can be seen where the trunks were longest since they were prone to mineralization the most.
Guided Tours and Activities
The Mississippi Petrified Forest offers guided tours for those who want an educational experience. While on tour, you will get to learn about the geology of why the trees petrified and the history of the area. During the tour, visitors will also get to see the exhibits at Ranger Station near the entrance.
You can’t mention the Mississippi Petrified Forest without talking about the picnicking opportunities. With plenty of picnic tables, chairs and spaces available, enjoy your lunch or snack amidst the trees’ beautiful scenery. It’s an excellent way to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings with family and friends.
Plan Your Visit
Before setting out on your trip to the Mississippi Petrified Forest, keep in mind that the forest is closed during the winter season. However, it’s open year-round and daily from the beginning of April to the end of October.
The park’s admission fee is nominal, and you may also rent equipment such as binoculars to get a better view while exploring the park. When visiting, wear comfortable walking shoes, and bring a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery and petrified features.
Conclusion
There you have it! The Mississippi Petrified Forest is a trip through history, and there are plenty of adventures to be experienced there. If you’re looking for a unique and educational experience, travel to Flora, Mississippi, and book a guided tour of the Mississippi Petrified Forest.