Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Did you know that the second largest canyon in the country lies in the Panhandle of Texas? Palo Duro Canyon State Park has so much to offer in terms of views, activity, and history. Find out why Palo Duro Canyon State Park is one Texas’ most popular state parks.
Location
Canyon, TX
Palo Duro’s location in Texas’ Panhandle makes it quite a trek from the most populous cities in Texas. However, don’t let this dissaude you from a visit. The travel time is well worth the experience.
From Austin- 484 mi (7 ½ hours)
From DFW- 358 mi (5 ½ hours)
From Houston- 613 mi (9 hours)
From Lubbock- 111 mi (1 ½ hours)
Accommodations
Water and Electric Campsites
Backpacking Areas
Equestrian Sites
Cabins
Glamping (Canvas Tents)
Vibes
Breathtaking Views
As soon as you start winding into the canyon, an overwhelming feeling of awe passes through you. The light reflects off the canyon walls and creates a symphony of colors. This really doesn’t stop anywhere you drive, hike, or ride throughout the canyon.
Great Trails
There are over 30 miles of hiking trails in the park for a range of abilities. Each trail offers a different perspective of the park. The variety of trails was superior to many other Texas State Parks in our opinion. Here were the 3 wonderful hikes we were able to accomplish in our time at the park:
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2.8 mi (one way)
5.5 mi (round trip)
There are a variety of ways to get to Lighthouse Rock. This trail was flat and easy until the last .5 mi where there were some steep grades and mild scrambling. It boasts a stunning view of the canyon and the iconic Lighthouse Rock.
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2.4 mi (one way)
4.8 mi (round trip)
This hike felt the most difficult of the 3 hikes we did. The climb is slow and steady. You have a great view of the canyon most of the way up.
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3.3 mi (one way)
6.6 mi (round trip)
There were many different connecting paths to get to this trail, so you can see a variety of landscapes. This trail was long, but we did not find it especially difficult to traverse.
Delicious Food
Not many state parks have a restaurant within the park limits, much less one with amazing food. The Palo Duro Trading post had the most delicious burgers! We brought enough food to cook breakfast, lunch, and dinner the whole time we were there but opted to eat there twice instead.
Whacky Weather
The Texas Panhandle is known for its unpredictable weather. Palo Duro Canyon is no exception. We personally experienced a tornado, sunshine, and a blizzard all within our 4 day stay.
What Would We Do Differently?
Check the weather before arriving
Be prepared for anything
Not stand outside during a tornado
Capitol Peak Trail (3.5 mi) difficulty level varies
Upper Comanche Trail (3.3 mi) to Lower Comanche Trail (4.4 mi)
Bring less food and eat more burgers
Zip-line through the canyon- Palo Duro Adventure Park is right outside of the state park entrance, and they offer zip-line adventures!
