There is no direct train service from the park to San Diego.

How long is the drive?

It is an 8-hour drive covering 800 kilometers.

Yes, the route is well-traveled and safe.

What is the best stop?

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

Petrified Forest

San Diego

Driving

Petrified Forest to San Diego

Updated: 28 May 2026

The drive from Petrified Forest to San Diego is an 800-kilometer journey. You will travel west on I-40 to Barstow and then south on I-15 through the heart of Southern California. The drive takes approximately 8 hours. This is a popular drive, passing through some of the most iconic landscapes in the American West. It is a long drive, so plan for multiple stops.

Total Distance: 800 km driving distance; 650 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via I-40 and I-15 takes 8 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving your own vehicle is the only practical option.

Compare Petrified Forest to San Diego Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

8 hours

Avg Price

$100-$130 in fuel

Operator

Personal Vehicle

Route

I-40 West to Barstow, then I-15 South.

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

Travel Tips

Traffic
San Diego traffic can be heavy; plan your trip to avoid peak hours.
Dining
Try the local fish tacos; they are a San Diego staple.
Weather
San Diego has perfect weather year-round; enjoy it.
Parking
Parking in downtown San Diego can be expensive; use public transit.
Public Transit
The San Diego Trolley 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 California.
Driving
Be cautious of aggressive drivers on the highways leading into the city.