The Ultimate Guide to Palo Duro Canyon State Park in Texas

Everyone’s heard of Arizona’s Grand Canyon, but have you ever wondered where the 2nd largest canyon in the United States is located? This rugged, remote, and stunningly beautiful corner of west Texas conceals a humble and surprising secret – the home of the “Grand Canyon of Texas”! This is the nickname lovingly given by locals to Palo Duro Canyon State Park, which is, in fact, the largest canyon after the Grand Canyon.

This red rock haven houses endless outdoor adventures, from hiking trails, camping and glamping, wildlife watching, participating in informative ranger programs, catching an outdoor musical, and much more. It is no wonder why this underrated state park is a closely guarded secret by native Texans!

What to Know Before You Go

Entrance Fees: $8 per person (under 12 years old free)

Hours: open daily from 7 am – 9 pm

Best Time of Year to Visit: spring and fall

Camping: there are several developed campgrounds as well as backcountry primitive campsites and an equestrian campground.

Lodging: there are glamping options within the park, including the Rim Cabins and Cow Camp Cabins, as well as additional glamping options near the entrance to the park.

Pet Policy: leashed pets are welcome on park trails

Background on Palo Duro Canyon

As previously mentioned, Palo Duro Canyon’s main claim to fame is its title of second largest canyon after the mighty Grand Canyon, and that is no small feat! As far as the Lone Star State goes, it ranks near the top of the 5 best canyons in Texas in terms of sheer beauty! Despite these accolades and titles, Palo Duro Canyon is still draped in seclusion, intrigue, and a touch of mystery, as it has managed to stay out of the type of bright spotlight that draws an average of 5 million annual visitors to its older sibling, the Grand Canyon.  Palo Duro Canyon State Park’s average number of annual visitors hovers around 400,000, which is great news for those seeking unmatched canyon beauty and adventure with fewer crowds!

Palo Duro Canyon’s immense gorge results from lengthy water erosion, created by a fork of the Red River slowly carving and leaving its mark over time. Palo Duro Canyon was chiseled into a region known as the “Caprock Escarpment,” where the immensely flat great plains collided with this upheaval of the surrounding red rock, creating a canyon home filled with varied terrain and surprising elevation changes. Palo Duro Canyon itself is approximately 120 miles long, almost 1,000 feet at its deepest, and with average widths of 6 miles, but up to 20 miles in some locations. This kaleidoscope of plateaus, chasms, riverbeds, canyons, vistas, and cliffs creates a diverse environment to explore, nearly 20,000 acres across the entire state park!

Palo Duro Canyon’s history is as colorful as its scenery.  It has long been a place of shelter for various prehistoric peoples and Native Americans, whose evidence can still be seen today in cave art and prehistoric tools. Coronado’s Spanish expedition even explored Palo Duro Canyon during the 1500s, which may have given root to the canyon’s current name.  In Spanish, Palo Duro means “hardwood,” a reference to the surprising abundance of trees in an otherwise treeless region. In Palo Duro Canyon, there were natural resources like water, wood, plants, and game, including the buffalo herds. There was also shelter from the wind and elements inside the canyon walls.  

Palo Duro Canyon has also been home to more somber moments in early Texas history, as the site of a major battle of the Indian Wars in 1874, the Battle of Palo Duro Canyon. Ultimately, early frontiersman and iconic rancher Charles Goodnight brought the first commercial ranch to Palo Duro Canyon in 1876, and then the state of Texas purchased the land in 1933.  

Location of Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Palo Duro Canyon State Park is located outside the small Texas town of Canyon, in the west Texas Panhandle. Other larger towns nearby include Amarillo to the north and Plainview and Lubbock to the south. The closest airports are Amarillo International Airport and Lubbock International Airport. If you are not lodging inside the park borders, there are plenty of additional hotels and vacation rentals in all of these nearby towns, plus amenities like restaurants and shopping.

When Should You Visit Palo Duro Canyon State Park?

The shoulder seasons of spring and fall are the best times of year to visit Palo Duro Canyon State Park since those are the most hospitable seasons in west Texas. Spring and fall contain more moderate temperatures for exploring the outdoors. The park is still open and accessible in winter, though there can be frigid, below-freezing temperatures both during the day and at night, as well as gusty winds. The occasional winter ice and snowstorm do pass through Palo Duro Canyon as well.

Summer is arguably the least recommended time to visit the park due to the excessively hot and often dangerous daytime temperatures. Much like the interior of the Grand Canyon, Palo Duro Canyon’s interior can also skyrocket to temperatures near 120 degrees Fahrenheit in the heart of summer. If you do visit in the summer, plan to start early in the day and finish early, and ensure you always have plenty of water and all the day hiking gear essentials you need.  The one advantage to a summer visit is catching a production of the Texas Musical, which runs seasonally in the summer.

Tips for Visiting Palo Duro Canyon State Park

• Choose the timing and the season of your visit carefully — this state park is home to some extremes in terms of weather and temperatures
• Consider your hike carefully — if you are planning to hike, choose a hike that suits your preferences and abilities and be familiar with the trail itself. Certain trails contain almost zero shade due to their canyon environment, which makes them more or less suitable depending on the season. The varied terrain of the canyon also means that some hiking trails have considerable elevation gain.  
• Make reservations in advance — Palo Duro Canyon State Park has its own busy seasons, particularly when the TEXAS Musical is playing or during holiday breaks like spring break week and Thanksgiving week. If you are seeking out some of the glamping options in particular, like the 3 Rim Cabins, including the iconic Goodnight Cabin, these cabins can be filled up far in advance. During busy times, it is also recommended that you buy a state park day pass in advance, which can be done online.  
• Bring plenty of water — regardless of the season, there is a lot of sun exposure in Palo Duro Canyon.  Always make sure to bring plenty of water!
• Respect wildlife — while Palo Duro Canyon is home to plenty of “cute” critters, like mule deer and cottontail rabbits, it is also home to animals, including venomous snakes and various predators.  Always give animals space, do not approach, and never feed!
• Stay on designated trails — this is not only for the safety of the fragile areas of the canyon but also to prevent getting lost in this vast wilderness.

Top Things to Do in Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Hiking Trails

Texas has a bit of an unfair reputation when it comes to hiking trails. While it is true that Texas is mostly flat in many areas, which makes it somewhat difficult to find rugged, diverse trails with a decent amount of elevation gain and loss, an exploration of Palo Duro Canyon’s hiking trails will immediately dispel the myth that Texas is ALL flat!

There are over 30 miles of trails in Palo Duro Canyon State Park, many of which are considered challenging, with around 1,000 feet of elevation gain. This essentially equates to scaling the entire elevation difference between the canyon floor and the rim, which many of the hiking trails in Palo Duro do. There are also moderate and easy rated trails as well, which means there is something for everyone! Here are a few of the standout trails in the park:

#1: The Lighthouse Trail

The Lighthouse Trail is named for the iconic rock formation that towers above the canyon, visible for several miles.  Upon arriving, it will be abundantly clear why it was named the “Lighthouse.” The panoramic views from this vantage point are unforgettable, and it is arguably the best seat in the house when visiting Palo Duro Canyon State Park.  

This is a moderately rated trail approximately 6 miles in roundtrip length, with almost all the elevation gain occurring in the final push-up to the formation. It is a suitable trail for those looking for a mid-level hike in terms of length and difficulty. For those uncomfortable with the final climb, there are still superb views from the base of the Lighthouse. Also, remember that this is a fairly exposed hike with minimal shade, so bring plenty of water and carefully consider the season and time of day you intend to hike. The park makes a point to state that most heat-related injuries and deaths occur on this trail, so while it remains the park’s most popular trail for a good reason, it should be hiked with careful preparation.

#2: The Rock Garden Trail

The Rock Garden Trail is an appropriately named trail and a favorite among visitors who like a little scrambling and added adventure on their hikes. It is 5 miles in roundtrip length and rated difficult, mostly due to trailing the large boulder field. This hike is engaging, riveting, and brimming with beautiful viewpoints, but it is not recommended for those groups with young children. With almost 800 feet of elevation gain, it also climbs from the canyon floor to the top of the canyon rim, passing plenty of bouldering opportunities along the way.  

#3: The CCC Trail

This trail is named after the Civilian Conservation Corps, which conducted work within the canyon and state park. This 2.8-mile-long, moderately rated trail traverses a canyon ridge before delving down the side of a canyon wall.  It’s a healthy mix of both flat and steep portions of terrain. From certain points along the trail, you can overlook the site of the Pioneer Amphitheatre and the home of the TEXAS Musical.  

#4: The Palo Duro Caves Trail

This mysteriously named trail is short and sweet, just under a mile in length, and rated easy. It is great for kids and adults alike, and the obvious highlight is exploring caves!  

#5: The Pioneer Nature Trail

Another shorter, easier hiking option is the half-mile Pioneer Nature Trail, which proceeds from the Pioneer Amphitheatre down to the river for relaxing views.  Depending on the season, you may spot wildlife and wildflowers along the trail.

#6: The Comanche Trails

The Comanche Trail is a lengthy and challenging hike, with significant elevation gain and a roundtrip distance of around 8 miles. It comprises two individual sections, the Upper and Lower Comanche Trails, which connect near the Soapberry Day Use Area. It is also possible to hike them individually. On either portion, expect challenging trails that cross rivers, climb canyon walls, and bask in the shadow of formations like Fortress Cliff.  

#7: The Kiowa Trail

While it is possible to connect both the Comanche Trails above and the Kiowa Trail for an even longer hike, the Kiowa Trail is very different from the Comanche Trail. It is much shorter, at just under 3 miles roundtrip, with minimal elevation gain, earning it an easy rating. It also contains immense and expansive views of the surrounding desert.  

Riding and Biking Trails

While hiking is the main activity on Palo Duro Canyon’s trails, some also serve as multi-use trails for mountain biking and horseback riding. The Capitol Peak Mountain Bike Trail is a bike-only trail located in the park. There is also a 2.5 mile long Equestrian Trail, that also doubles as a primitive backcountry camping trail. You can bring your own horses, utilize the Equestrian Campground, or take a guided tour from the onsite Old West Stables. 

Camping

Seven developed campgrounds in Palo Duro Canyon are reservable online up to 6 months in advance:

• Sagebrush Camp Area (electric and water)
• Hackberry Camp Area (electric and water)
• Fortress Cliff Camp Area (tent-only sites with water only)
• Juniper Camp Area (electric and water)
• Mesquite Camp Area (electric and water)
• Wolfberry Camp Area (group camp area only)
• Group Camp Area (youth only)

There are also backcountry sites available with the proper backcountry permit, which are awarded on a first-come, first serve basis

Cabins

Palo Duro Canyon State Park also offers reservable cabins within the park in two locations:

• The Rim Cabins near the park headquarters and Visitor Center
• The Cow Camp Cabins located in the interior of the park

The 3 Rim Cabins are some of the most sought-after accommodations in the park. The Civilian Conservation Corps built these stone cabins. Each of the 3 cabins is perched on the canyon rim, providing unbeatable views of stunning sunrises and sunsets, surrounded on 3 sides with privacy fences for a welcoming sense of solitude. These 3 Rim cabins are each dubbed with historically rooted names, including the Sorenson, Lighthouse, and namesake Goodnight Cabin. These rustic cabins are all suitable for families, accommodating up to 4 people, and contain AC, heat, bathrooms, microwaves, fridges, and fireplaces.  

While the park is pet accessible, the Rim cabins are not pet-friendly!

The 4 Cow Camp Cabins are located further in the park, and while they still provide a unique form of rustic lodging, the views are from the perspective of the canyon floor as opposed to the loftier views from the perfectly perched Rim Cabins. That being said, they are still surrounded by plenty of brightly colored canyon walls and are significantly more affordable (and easier to snag!).

The stone Cow Camp Cabins do have AC, heat, microwaves, fridges, and electricity, but they do not contain bathrooms and are not pet-friendly.

Glamping

Though privately run, there are additional glamping cabins and tents in Palo Duro Canyon State Park. Available options can be found at Palo Duro Glamping. These glamping spots are located in the heart of the park, near the Pioneer Amphitheater and the Palo Duro Canyon Trading Post, a souvenir store.  

Another glamping option is located just outside the entrance to Palo Duro Canyon State Park at Doves Rest Cabins. These luxury glamping cabins have options ranging from 1 to 4 bedrooms and are only minutes away from all the park’s highlights.

TEXAS Musical

Every summer, the Pioneer Amphitheatre hosts what has become known as the official play of Texas. This outdoor musical, surrounded by the walls of Palo Duro Canyon, is a romantic play based on early Texas life in the panhandle region. It is one of the top seasonal attractions in Palo Duro State Park and is extremely family-friendly, with singing, dancing, and fireworks displays.  

Historical Displays

For history buffs, there is a lot to learn about Palo Duro Canyon. It has a rich history dating back to prehistoric times and has been a pivotal location for various people groups across the ages. For those wanting to witness a firsthand glimpse of a remnant of early Texas ranch life in Palo Duro Canyon, there is a replica of Charles Goodnight’s dugout cabin on display. There are also various exhibits on the park’s history and geology located in the Visitor Center.  

Wildlife Watching

Due to its diverse ecosystem, Palo Duro Canyon supports many resident animals. Mammals like wild turkeys, deer, bobcats, and coyotes thrive here. The roadrunner is a commonly spotted bird. Reptiles include various snakes and lizards, including the threatened Texas-horned lizard. Though rarely spotted, there are even herds of non-native barbary sheep, otherwise known as aoudad sheep, which were introduced into the park in the 1940s.

But perhaps the most famous residents of Palo Duro Canyon State Park are the majestic longhorns! There are several members of the official state longhorn herd that reside in the park, and they can often be spotted along the rim near the park headquarters.

Ranger Programs

Want to learn more about the history and geology of Palo Duro Canyon or perhaps just chat more with one of the park rangers? Ranger programs include events like Sky Night Hikes, Sunset Drive Tours, the geology-focused “Slice of Palo Duro Pie” guided hike, and historically themed hikes focusing on the park’s roots related to the Comanches, CCC, and more.  

Other Nearby Attractions

Palo Duro Canyon State Park is not the only underrated surprise to be found in this corner of Texas!  

Caprock Canyon State Park

Regarding canyons, check out the smaller sibling to Palo Duro Canyon, Caprock Canyon State Park.  Much like Palo Duro Canyon, Caprock Canyon contains stunning red rock scenery, a wealth of engaging trails, and plenty of additional outdoor adventures, like camping, fishing, and watching the local prairie dogs and buffalo herds!

Lake Meredith National Recreation Area

Nestled in the seemingly arid and deserted high plains just outside of Amarillo is Lake Meredith National Recreation Area. Here, striking 200-foot-deep canyons overlook blue waters. Boating, hiking, hunting, fishing, and camping are popular activities.  

Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument

This National Monument is special to the culture of the high plains region of Texas. Throughout recorded history, these flint quarries were a vital source of flint, which was purposed for early tools and weapons.  

Learn more about the Alibates Flint Quarries through guided ranger hikes and programs or by visiting the Visitor Center and museum exhibits.  

Amarillo

The city of Amarillo is a sizable hub in the Texas panhandle. It’s also a perfect addition to any visit to Palo Duro Canyon State Park. You can check out the Amarillo Zoo, the quirky and highly photographed Cadillac Ranch, tour historic Route 66, or take on the 72-ounce steak challenge at the famous Big Texan Steak Ranch Restaurant!

For more info on active travel, check out Yonderlust Ramblings.