Stop 6: Old Faithful
This giant of Giant Logs measures 35 feet (10.6 m) long and weighs approximately 44 tons (39,900 kg).Previously called names like “The Monarch” and “Major Domo,” this impressive log has been a favorite visitor attraction for years. In the late 1920s, the park superintendent’s wife said the log was to Petrified Forest what the Old Faithful geyser is to Yellowstone National Park. From this the name “Old Faithful” stuck.

Notice that fragments at the base are mortared together? In 1962, lightning struck and fractured the log. At that time, the National Park Service repaired the damage and built a retaining wall to slow erosion. Attitudes about resource management in our national parks have changed over the years; a log would not be glued back together today.

YOUR OWN REPHOTOGRAPHY SHOOT
Petrified Forest has hosted many great scientific minds. Perhaps you recognize the face of this visitor? Just like your trip, Dr. and Mrs. Albert Einstein’s March 1, 1931 visit would not be complete without seeing Old Faithful. Use the photo at left and you can stand right where the famous scientist stood so many years ago.