Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Palo Duro Canyon is nothing short of spectacular - well known as the "Grand Canyon of Texas" for a good reason, given that the grandeur and natural beauty of the park are second to none.  

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With over 27,000 acres and 30+ miles of multi-use trails, visitors can camp, hike, mountain bike, ride horseback, enjoy a picnic, or sign up for one of the Ranger-led Programs featuring the park's history and natural features; everything from driving tours, guided night hikes, to StarTours to view the constellations and fantastic night sky.

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Geology buffs will be right at home exploring the landscape and the park's geological story that began approximately 250 million years ago and dates back to the Permian Age. Hoodoos, pinnacles, Spanish skirts, and colorful rock formations abound throughout the park, including the iconic Lighthouse pinnacle, undoubtedly the most photographed feature in Palo Duro Canyon.​

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Located in the Texas Panhandle, about 12 miles east of Canyon and 25 miles south of downtown Amarillo, it is a must for those exploring Route 66. This part of Texas is hot in the summer, so plan a visit in the spring, fall, or winter to avoid extreme heat in the middle of summer!

For photos of Palo Duro Canyon, visit our photo gallery.
Additional details and directions can be found in our hiking guide and Texas Parks and Wildlife's website.

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View from the Rim Trail

The Lighthouse Pinnacle