Petrified Forest
37 miles north of Dubois

The Washakie Wilderness north of Dubois has within its boundaries an area of particular interest to the scientist and amateur geologist. 30 to 40 million years ago this area was covered by massive volcanic ash deposits. The wood cells were replaced by minerals and water before they could rot creating petrified wood. The varying colors and textures of the petrified wood are the result of varying colors and textures of certain minerals in the stone. As the petrified forest is within boundaries of the Wilderness, all travel is restricted to foot and horseback. Petrified wood can not be taken from the area. For the rock hounds, the regions around the lower end of the creeks flowing into the Wind River are excellent places to hunt for pieces of the petrified wood which have been washed down from the slopes of the Wilderness area.
Source: Dubois Chamber of Commerce brochure