La Leona Petrified Forest

Overview

La Leona Petrified Forest is a unique geological site featuring ancient petrified wood and fossils. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's prehistoric past.

The site provides valuable insights into the geological history of the Santa Cruz area and the process of petrification.

Geological Outdoor Educational

Location

Address

Santa Cruz

Neighborhood: Natural Bridges

Coordinates

37.000000, -122.000000

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

saturday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

sunday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$15

Children

$8

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds and cooler temperatures

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

2-3 hours

Full Experience

half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild and pleasant

• wildflowers
• green landscapes

summer

hot and dry

• extended visiting hours

autumn

cool and pleasant

• fall colors

winter

cold and rainy

• holiday lights

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book ahead
Bring ID
Check weather
Wear comfortable shoes

What to Bring

essential

ID water tickets

seasonal

jacket umbrella sunscreen

not allowed

pets drones large bags

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate

• uneven terrain
• dehydration risk

Medical facilities: first aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, credit cards

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

entry $15

parking $5

food $10

souvenirs $15

Dress Code

casual and comfortable, comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, hiking shoes or comfortable walking shoes, inappropriate clothing, high heels

Booking Tips

• 2 weeks
• official website
• 48 hours
• available

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

La Leona Petrified Forest App

Size: 60 MB

Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets, Educational content

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe

Charging Stations: Rest areas

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: San Jose International Airport

Distance: 45 km

Travel Time: 45 minutes

taxi

$60 45 min

public_transport

$10 1 hour 15 min

From City Center

Distance: 3 km

bus

$2 10 min

taxi

$10 5 min

bicycle

$0 15 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Historic importance and unique geological features

Historical Significance: Important geological history of the region

Insider Tips

Free entry early morning for local residents
Best food at the nearby Santa Cruz cafes
Guided tours offer great insights

Local Recommendations

• Try local cafes in Santa Cruz
• Ask for guide Sarah
• Visit nearby Natural Bridges State Beach

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello

thank_you Thank you

where_is Where is

how_much How much

beautiful Beautiful

ticket Ticket

help Help

map Map

Guide Languages: English, Spanish, French

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main entrance

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Low angle for dramatic shots

Result: Great shot

#petrifiedforest #geology #santacruz

Fossil display area

Best Time: Morning

Tips: Macro shots for details

Result: Detailed close-ups

#fossils #geology #santacruz

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas, designated paths

prohibited areas restricted zones, indoor exhibits

flash photography not allowed in indoor exhibits

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy prohibited

tripod policy restricted to certain areas

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Natural Bridges State Beach

Distance: 1km

Walking: 15 min

Type: Beach

Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History

Distance: 2km

Walking: 25 min

Type: Museum

Seabright State Beach

Distance: 3km

Walking: 40 min