One of the eight Painted Desert overlooks located across Petrified Forest National Park, Tawa Point provides spectacular views of the Martian-like terrain. Before you, deep reds and black basalt make up the otherworldly scenery, which is engrained in the folklore of the Hopi people. Embark on the Tawa Trail for 1.2 miles (1.9 kilometers) and take in the remarkably colorful surroundings on the way to the visitor center.
Snap a photo of your family sitting on the stone ledge, with the bumps and plateaus of the Painted Desert making up an awe-inspiring backdrop.
Stay into the late afternoon to see the sun begin to descend toward the cliffs. Sunrise makes the scenery unforgettable. Get a permit for backcountry camping to catch a sunset and sunrise. This is the best way to avoid crowds, as the park closes overnight.
Make your way to some of the other nearby observation points for different views of the Painted Desert. Find picnic tables at Chinde Point. Visit the Painted Desert Inn National Historic Landmark at Kachina Point, where you can pick up traditional handicrafts and spot a retro soda fountain from the 1930s. A little south, enjoy a meal at the Painted Desert Diner and watch a free orientation film in the Painted Desert Visitor Center.
Note that the black basalt forming the rim of the overlook comes from the Bidahochi Formation, which in turn lies on the red Chinle Formation.
Petrified Forest National Park opens daily year-round from early morning until early evening. When walking in the park, bring enough water for your group to stay hydrated in the extremely dry conditions at high altitude.
To reach Tawa Point, travel by car north from the Painted Desert Visitor Center for 1 mile (1.6 kilometers), passing Tiponi Point on the way.
While in the area, make sure to visit other nearby lookouts including Whipple Point, Chinde Point and Pintado Point.
