My experience was similar to MMario's. I saw lots of roadway that cut through moderately colorful areas. I think it is fair to tell you that that slide, (and I think I must have had the same one,) must have been color enhanced - or at least shot with filters. The colors are generallyh much more subdued than those shown in many photos. However, it is important to note that a lot depends on how much sunlight is available. I would imagine that early morning and just before sunset would be the best times to see the colors - bright daylight being the least desirable.

BTW, I remember being greatly disappointed by the Petrified Forest. I don't know exactly what I was expecting, but it just didn't interest me very much. I saw all I needed to see in about five minutes. After all, just how many prone stone tree trunks does one really need to see?

The roadside flowers were far more interesting.