The Painted Desert is a vast expanse of desert land in the Four Corners region of the United States. It is located in northern Arizona and extends into parts of New Mexico, Utah, and Colorado. The area is known for its colorful landscape, which features hues of red, orange, yellow, and purple. The colors are caused by the oxidation of iron and other minerals in the soil. The Painted Desert also features unique geological formations such as hoodoos, mesas, buttes, and canyons. Visitors to the area can explore the many trails that wind through the desert or take a scenic drive along one of its highways. There are also several national parks and monuments located within the Painted Desert that offer visitors an opportunity to learn more about its history and geology.