Palo Duro Canyon State Park [TX] - Lighthouse Trail


Why visit Palo Duro Canyon State Park?

Palo Duro Canyon is the second largest canyon in the United States. The canyon is approximately 120 miles long, with an average width of 6 miles. Geological layering can be seen within the rocks. The park is quite beautiful and offers a variety of recreational opportunities.

Where is Palo Duro Canyon State Park?

Palo Duro Canyon State Park is located in Canyon, Texas. Canyon is in northern Texas, about 30 minutes southeast of Amarillo. 

What should one expect on the Lighthouse Trail? 

The Lighthouse is a rock formation, which is the crown jewel of Palo Duro Canyon State Park. It is approximately 2.75 miles from the trailhead to the base of the Lighthouse (5.5 miles round trip). The trail is mostly dirt and can be quite muddy after rain. The final quarter mile of the trail, approaching the Lighthouse, is quite steep and rocky. Please do exercise caution on this section of the trail, as the loose rocks can cause you to lose your balance.

 


 

 

We would definitely recommend bringing plenty of water (the park recommends 1 gallon per person and pet), especially during the summer months. During the summer, temperatures can exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit, and you would probably want to limit your hiking activities to the morning or late afternoon. While there are a few shelters for shade along the trail, the vast majority is pretty exposed to the sun, so consider bringing good sun protection for your skin, as well.

The views on this trail are spectacular, but be prepared for crowds. It is also a multi-use trail, which means hikers share the trail with horseback riders and bikers. In our experience, you should definitely be on the lookout for mountain bikers while hiking this trail, as they are quite common.  

A helpful guide from the park  

 


Are pets allowed at Palo Duro Canyon State Park?

Pets are allowed at Palo Duro Canyon State Park but must be kept on a leash and attended at all times. 

Please remember to clean up any waste generated by you, or your pets! 

Is there camping at Palo Duro Canyon State Park?

Palo Duro Canyon State Park offers several options for camping, including group sites and hike-in sites. The park also has sites with electrical hookups. 

Find out more about campsites (includes link to online reservation portal) 

 

 

Is there a fee to hike at Palo Duro Canyon State Park?

Palo Duro Canyon charges an entry fee of $8 per adult, per day. Children under the age of 12 can enter the park free of charge. 

The park notes, on its website, that it often reaches capacity, and reservations are highly recommended for both camping and day use. 

Park Website

Park Map

Trails Map

Reserve Entry Passes 

 

Check out the YouTube video! 


 

Location: Palo Duro Canyon State Park, 11450 State Hwy Park Rd 5, Canyon, TX 79015, USA

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