There is no direct train service from the park to El Paso.

How long is the drive?

It is a 7-hour drive covering 700 kilometers.

Yes, the route is well-traveled and safe.

What is the best stop?

Las Cruces is a great place to stop for a day or two.

Petrified Forest

El Paso

Driving

Petrified Forest to El Paso

Updated: 28 May 2026

The drive from Petrified Forest to El Paso is a 700-kilometer journey. You will travel east on I-40 to Albuquerque and then south on I-25 through the heart of New Mexico. The drive takes approximately 7 hours. This is a fascinating drive, passing through some of the most historic and culturally rich areas of the American Southwest. It is a long drive, so plan for multiple stops.

Total Distance: 700 km driving distance; 600 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via I-40 and I-25 takes 7 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving your own vehicle is the only practical option.

Compare Petrified Forest to El Paso Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

7 hours

Avg Price

$90-$120 in fuel

Operator

Personal Vehicle

Route

I-40 East to Albuquerque, then I-25 South.

Stop in Las Cruces for a meal to break up the drive.

Travel Tips

Traffic
El Paso traffic can be heavy; plan your trip to avoid peak hours.
Dining
Try the local Tex-Mex cuisine; it is some of the best in the country.
Weather
El Paso is very hot in the summer; stay hydrated.
Border
Be aware that you are near the international border; carry your ID.
Public Transit
The Sun Metro bus system is a great way to get around the city.

Safety Tips

Fatigue
The drive is very long; take regular breaks.
Emergency
Keep a basic emergency kit in your car.
Cell Service
Expect long stretches with no signal in rural New Mexico.
Driving
Be cautious of aggressive drivers on the highways leading into the city.