Petrified Forest

Hidden in the hills above Arrowtown, the Petrified Forest is a startling geological time capsule. What looks like a jumble of grey logs on a dusty slope is actually the remains of a subtropical rainforest that flourished here 20 million years ago, turned to stone by silica-laden groundwater. It's a short, steep walk to the site, but the reward is a tactile encounter with ancient tree trunks, their bark and growth rings perfectly preserved in rock. The surrounding schist outcrops and tussock landscape only heighten the sense of stepping back into deep time.

Highlights & What to See

• Fossilised tree trunks: Walk among the fallen giants, some up to 30 metres long, and run your fingers over the bark texture frozen in stone.
• Interpretive signs: Learn how the forest was buried by volcanic ash and slowly transformed into quartz-rich rock.
• Panoramic views: The trail offers sweeping vistas over the Arrow River valley and the surrounding mountains.
• Macetown Track: Combine your visit with a walk or 4WD trip to the historic gold-mining settlement of Macetown, which starts from the same trailhead.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow 1–2 hours for the return walk from the car park (the track is about 1 km each way, with a moderate climb). It's a half-day outing if you add a picnic or explore the Macetown Track further. The site is best in the morning or late afternoon light, when the fossilised wood glows warmly.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Arrowtown: Wander the charming gold-rush streets, visit the Lakes District Museum, and grab a coffee at one of the village cafés.
• Queenstown: Just 20 minutes away, this adventure hub offers bungee jumping, lake cruises, and world-class dining.
• Glenorchy: Drive 45 minutes north to this stunning lakeside settlement, gateway to the Routeburn Track and Paradise.
• Wanaka: An hour's drive over the Crown Range, Wanaka is famous for its lake views, That Wānaka Tree, and hiking trails.
• Cromwell: Explore the historic old town and sample stone fruit from the region's orchards, especially in summer.

Please check official sources for current details.