Goderdzi Petrified Forest Natural Monument

Goderdzi Petrified Forest is a protected natural monument in southern Georgia containing the mineralized remains of ancient plants. The site spreads across a mountainous area with preserved specimens scattered throughout the landscape, revealing what grew in this region long ago.

The area was shaped during volcanic eruptions millions of years ago when ash and lava buried tropical plants beneath the surface. This natural preservation process left behind stone casts and mineral forms that reveal how the climate and environment changed dramatically over time.

The site serves as an educational center where researchers and visitors examine fossilized specimens to understand prehistoric Georgian ecosystems.

The monument sits in a mountainous area and requires walking to view the petrified remains scattered across the terrain. Sturdy footwear and preparation for changing weather are important, as the elevation and exposed location influence conditions throughout the day.

The petrified plants here show a tropical environment that transformed into a much colder climate zone. Visitors can observe how different Georgia's past was and witness the dramatic shifts that shaped the landscape over millions of years.