If you’re into fossils and exploring geologic history, look no further than Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park. This is one of the most diverse fossil forests in all of North America, featuring trees petrified after they were trapped in a lake during the Ginkgo lava flow 15 million years ago. The ancient forest had trees that today you can only find in central or southeastern U.S., including elm, sycamore, and walnut. The park is named for a petrified Gingko tree Professor George Beck discovered in the area back in 1932, a species no longer native to North America. Although much of the ancient forest lies beneath the park, there is plenty to explore, including an interpretive trail with 20 petrified logs, the Gingko Petrified Forest Interpretive Center, and the Gingko trailside museum constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Other popular activities at this park include birding, wildlife spotting, and camping at the Wanapum Recreation Area down the road.
630 Gingko Ave, Vantage, WA 98950
