Palo Duro Canyon State Park
The Grand Canyon of Texas
End of May, there had been flooding, and we were dodging the rain. These pictures do not do the canyon justice. Palo Duro Canyon is the second largest canyon to the Grand Canyon in Arizona. The canyon is 120 miles long and over 20 miles wide. At its deepest point, over 800 feet. Because of Palo Duros vastness, it’s one of the most visited state parks in Texas. There is so much to explore in this park that one day won’t be enough to experience all Palo Duro has to offer. However, if you have a day, or a couple days, here’s what you can expect.
Most likely, you’ll first head to the visitor center to get your maps and passes for your visit. At the visitor center, you’ll find videos, exhibits, and pretty much a small museum. You can learn about the geology and formation of the canyon and the indigenous people who have inhabited the area for thousands of years with prehistoric animals. There’s even some history on the battle of Palo Duro. A guest shop inside the visitor center has southwest-themed apparel, Navajo rugs, postcards, and other handcrafted items.
The iconic lighthouse
When it comes to hiking, the park has over 30 miles of hiking trails. The most hiked being the iconic Lighthouse Trail. The formation itself is 300 ft high. The trailhead access is on the canyon loop road. A parking lot makes it accessible and the trail is 5.6 miles round trip. Depending on your hiking level or those hiking with you (we had toddlers) should take about three hours to complete. Along the trail, you’ll find intervals of benches to rest little ones as they take a nap.
Another favorite is the CCC trail which the trailhead is located near the visitor center and descends all the way to the canyon floor. This is a hike you want to ensure you’re in the right weather. The canyon is always much hotter than the rim. In fact, the canyon floor can reach a temperature of 120*. During the CCC trail, you’ll see some of the original bridges constructed in 1934.
If you have time, another well-known trail is the Cowboy Dugout Trail. In the end, you’ll find a historic cabin built into the side of a hill.
Mountain bike enthusiasts are also welcome at this state park as there are many gorgeous views with challenging terrain. Capitol Peak Trail has been the recommended trail for mountain biking.
If you’re taking a single day to explore the glorious landscape or aren’t much of a hiker, you can opt for the scenic drive. The Palo Duro Canyon loop road is around 16 miles long and goes from the anyone rim to the floor (800 ft deep) and leads you to end again at the visitor center. Allow yourself 2 to 3 hours on this drive as there are points where you can park for photos or take in the scenery. One thing to note: the canyon is known to flood after heavy rains. Make sure to check the status at the visitor center before you go.
You’ll find the trading post on the canyon floor, where you can grab a bite to eat. Along with their “world famous burger,” there are many supplies and souvenirs.
If you decide to visit in the summer, there is the famous Texas Musical Show at the Pioneer Amphitheater. A family-friendly show focused on the 1800s and Texas Panhandle settlers. The show involves music, dancing, stories, and humor. Included is a fantastic firework show. The show can be seen from June 1st through mid-August.
Other activities and things to note:
Palo Duro Canyon State Park is home to some of Texas’ Official Longhorn Herd. The Longhorn Pasture is located at the park entrance. The pasture is on the left-hand side when you pass through the gates. There are a few parking spots you can stop at or along the road for photo opportunities.
Beyond hiking, you can take in the vast canyon while zip-lining across Palo Duro Canyon State Park. Check out Palo Duro Canyon Zip Line Adventure Park for more information.
Palo Duro is also known as one of the most horseback riding-friendly Texas state parks. Book a trail ride through Old West Stables if you can't bring your horse.
To enter the park, you’ll need to pay a day-use fee ($8 per person 12 and under are free). I always recommend booking ahead of time for camping or day use to eliminate any chance of the park being at capacity. If glamping is more your style, you can rent a few cabins on the rim. The cabins are perfect for picturesque views right out your front door. Again, book those in advance as they book out months in advance.
The kiddos can earn their Ranger patch by completing a booklet filled with facts to find as they go through the visitor center.
Looking for more to do in the area? 90 miles away from Palo Duro Canyon is Caprock Canyons State Park. Known to be home to the last Bison herd in Texas. Check out this post on Caprock Canyons and our visit here
