The Grand Canyon of Texas...
On our way back from our Colorado road trip, we made a stop that had been on my Texas bucket list for a long time...Palo Duro Canyon. And let me just say… wow. Texas never ceases to amaze me. A little wink from God, reminding us of the beauty He painted into every corner of this state.
Where is Palo Duro Canyon?
Palo Duro Canyon is located in the Texas Panhandle, just about 25 miles southeast of Amarillo. It’s tucked inside Palo Duro Canyon State Park, and if you’re not expecting it, the dramatic shift from flat plains to plunging canyon views will take you completely by surprise.
Known as the second-largest canyon in the United States, Palo Duro stretches roughly 120 miles long and up to 20 miles wide, with depths reaching 800 feet. It’s no wonder it’s nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of Texas.”
A bit of history:
Palo Duro Canyon has a rich and rugged history. Formed by millions of years of water erosion by the Prairie Dog Town Fork of the Red River, this canyon was home to various Indigenous tribes for thousands of years, including the Apache, Comanche, and Kiowa.
In 1874, during the Red River War, the U.S. Army launched a surprise attack on the Comanche in the canyon, a battle that tragically led to the loss of over 1,000 Comanche horses and effectively marked the end of their free-roaming life on the plains.
Later, in the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) helped develop the park we know today, building many of the trails and structures that are still in use.
Wildlife in Palo Duro Canyon:
One of the best things about visiting Palo Duro is how alive it feels. Wildlife is abundant here...wild turkeys, white-tailed deer, rabbits, Texas longhorns, bobcats, roadrunners, and horned lizards. And if you’re lucky (or a little brave), you might even spot a tarantula or rattlesnake along the trails...they’re part of the canyon family too.
Ways to stay:
Whether you’re looking for rustic camping or a cozy cabin, Palo Duro has something for everyone:
Tent Camping: There are several scenic campgrounds, including sites with water and electricity.
RV Sites: Perfect for those traveling in campers or trailers.
Cabins: The park offers rim and canyon floor cabins with breathtaking views.
Glamping: Want the outdoors with a touch of comfort? Check out the cowboy-style glamping tents available through the park.
Hiking: One of the most popular trails is the Lighthouse Trail, a 6-mile round trip to the iconic rock formation.
Horseback Riding: Explore the canyon like the cowboys did — guided rides are available.
Biking: Bring your mountain bike for miles of trails with epic views.
The TEXAS Musical: If you’re visiting in the summer, don’t miss this outdoor musical set right in the canyon.
Nearby Lodging: Amarillo is just a short drive away with plenty of hotels and restaurants if you’re not up for roughing it.
Though we didn’t have time to fully explore the park this trip, just standing at the canyon’s edge was enough to fill our hearts. There’s something so grounding about being surrounded by creation on such a grand scale...it reminds you of just how big God is, and how beautifully detailed His work is.
We already said we’ll be back, next time with our hiking shoes and maybe even our camper in tow. If you’re headed to or from the Texas Panhandle, this is a must-stop spot.
Texas Tip: Bring water, sunscreen, and good shoes! The canyon gets hot, especially in the summer months, and cell service can be spotty.
Have you ever been to Palo Duro Canyon? Let me know your favorite trail or memory!
Here’s to the backroads, small-town squares, and hidden gems that make Texas worth the drive — see y’all on the next Texas Tuesday! 
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