This State Park Is Home to the ‘Grand Canyon of Texas’—How to Visit

Arizona isn’t alone in having a stunning canyon. Virginia and Kentucky share the nearly 1,000-foot deep canyon. Breaks Interstate ParkPalo Duro Canyon is often referred to as the second largest canyon in the United States. This wondrous natural formation—which measures in at 120 miles long and up to 800 feet deep—is known as the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” and it’s the main draw to Palo Duro Canyon State Park. 

The canyon is older than the park, which opened in 1934. Its formation is said to have started around a million years ago, as the headwaters of the Prairie Dog Town Fork of the Red River carved out its path—but the exposed rock layers date back more than 240 million years. Researchers have found evidence that Indigenous peoples lived in the canyon. from 12,000 years ago. 

Travel to the Texas Panhandle area to experience this natural wonder and historical landmark. It’s only about 30 minutes from Amarillo to the park entrance, but it is worth the trip. Palo Duro Canyon State Park, which is second in popularity only to Grand Canyon, offers a similar number of opportunities to experience the canyon, according to Kristen Czudak. Yonderlust Ramblings. She adds that the best part is “you get to enjoy Palo Duro Canyon State Park’s best features without having to deal with the crowds or the overwhelming logistics at the Grand Canyon.”

What to do

Palo Duro Canyon State Park offers a variety of hiking trails for those who love the outdoors. Bikes and horses are welcome on some of the trails. You can start with a half-mile. Pioneer Nature Trail—or opt for Czudak’s more challenging favorites. “The best hike at the park is definitely the Lighthouse Trail“She says. When you reach its end at the bottom of this incredible red rock formation, you’ll see why the trail is named. Don’t miss out on climbing the last steep portion to explore and rest at the base of ‘the lighthouse.’ The views from the top are some of best in the whole state. 

The other option for experienced hikers looking to do something more challenging than this six-mile-round-trip hike is the Rock Garden Trail. It’s slightly shorter, but it has some similar features. “You can hike along a lofty mountain ridgeline with stunning views of a boulder field beneath you,” explains the woman. AllTrails has rated both trails moderate. However, the boulder field trail is more difficult. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department The latter is noted for its “difficult trail to the rim.”

Czudak advises that you research the trail before hiking it, as it is all too easy for people to underestimate its rating. “A few of these hikes are quite challenging, and they should be given the size of this canyon. She says that you should only hike trails for which you are physically ready. You should also do research on the trails of your choice. 

Enjoy some outdoor activities in addition to hiking stellar camping Czudak says, “Texas has some of the best skies at night.” There are various campsites Visitors can reserve some of the (some with power) but they can also take things a step further by renting one. park’s cabins Book a glamping tent. Czudak says that the Palo Duro Canyon State Park’s amphitheater also hosts seasonal performances. TEXAS Outdoor MusicalFrom early June to mid-August, performances are usually held from Tuesdays through Sundays.

When is the best time to visit?

Visitors who don’t plan to attend the musical should avoid the summer months. Czudak says that the best time to visit Palo Duro Canyon State Park would be between November and April. Summer months are not ideal because of the high temperatures in this part of Texas, and the fact that the canyon is exposed to the sun. 

She warns that the heat and humidity can be a real shock to visitors who are not native Texans. If you’re visiting during the summer, it is important to start hiking early with plenty of water and the proper gear.