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Rent A UTV In Texas And Go Off-Roading Through The Palo Duro Canyon

Experience Palo Duro Canyon's rugged terrain through unique Jeep tours offered by Palo Duro Creek Ranch.

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Hiking the Palo Duro Canyon is cool and all, but have you ever taken a Jeep tour of its iconic red rock landscape? Experience the nation's second-largest canyon like never before at Palo Duro Creek Ranch, where you can embark on an off-roading adventure through the rugged, otherworldly terrain.

No matter how many times you've experienced Palo Duro Canyon on foot, riding through the rugged terrain in a Jeep offers an entirely new perspective.

If you're up for the adventure, Palo Duro Creek Ranch is located on TX-217 in Canyon.

Choose between three different tours, each one showcasing the canyon in a slightly different way.

The most basic among them, the Black Hawk Tour, lasts for about an hour and slowly descends into the canyon from the rim. This excursion is offered on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday-Sunday.

The "in-between" tour is known as Hidden Spring Canyon, and it's two hours long.

From ancient plant life to sweeping canyon vistas to a majestic waterfall, you'll see a little bit of everything - including an abandoned graveyard and authentic Plains Indian Tipi. This tour is offered Thursday-Sunday.

Finally, the Spirit of Palo Duro Canyon tour offers the most immersive experience.

This three-hour excursion leads from the rim to the canyon floor, letting riders marvel at unique rock formations, 360-degree panoramas, native wildlife, and even learn a bit of history.

No matter which tour you embark on, rest-assured there's no better way to enjoy the nation's second-largest canyon.

The views are second-to-none!

Bring the whole family for an outdoor adventure you'll never forget.

Take plenty of pictures - these precious memories deserve to be documented.

Tickets range from $38-$92 per person depending on which tour you choose.

Booking can be done on the Palo Duro Creek Ranch website.

Visit the Palo Duro Creek Ranch Facebook page to learn more.

Have you ever taken a Jeep tour with Palo Duro Creek Ranch? If so, tell us all about your experience in the comments section below, and check out our previous article to learn more about the park's famous Lighthouse Trail.

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11 Things That Belong On Everyone’s Texas Summer Bucket List

Summer in Texas may be hot (and unbearably so at times!), but we still find ways to enjoy it. From world-famous waterparks and river tubing adventures to finger-licking good BBQ and ripe, juicy peaches, this is my own personal Texas summer bucket list. If you’re in search of the best things to do in Texas during summer, look no further!

1. Schlitterbahn

I was around five years old when I first visited Schlitterbahn , and it remains one of my favorite summer destinations. The original location in New Braunfels is my personal preference - I love all of the lazy rivers!

2. Float the river

Tubing is a summertime rite of passage in Texas. There are many different rivers to float on - most of which are located in the beautiful Hill Country - but I think it’s safe to say the Comal is the most popular. After all, who doesn’t love a tube chute?

3. Cool off in a swimming hole

Since Texas gets so hot in the summer, it’s a true blessing we have so many great options for cooling off. From Hamilton Pool to Krause Springs , swimming holes abound here in the Lone Star State.

4. Stargaze at Big Bend National Park

Summer night skies are something else, and there’s no place quite like Big Bend National Park to see them. This desert oasis boasts some of the darkest skies on Earth, so you can marvel at the Milky Way and all your favorite constellations.

5. Watch baby sea turtles hatch on the Padre Island National Seashore

I’m pretty sure it’s a universal truth that baby animals are adorable, and if you visit the Padre Island National Seashore in the summer, you can see some up close. Kemp’s Ridley sea turtles hatch all season long, captivating onlookers as they scurry towards their ocean home.

6. Visit a beach town like Galveston

There are so many things to do in Galveston - especially in the summer! From dolphin tours to visiting Moody Gardens, you’ll never run out of activities to enjoy.

7. Stroll along the San Antonio River Walk

Magic is, in fact, real, and it exists on the San Antonio River Walk . Between the rich heritage, the lively atmosphere, and the plethora of incredible shops and restaurants, there’s no denying how special this historic place is.

8. Swim in the world's largest spring-fed swimming pool at Balmorhea State Park

Everything really is bigger in Texas - including our swimming pools! Balmorhea State Park in Toyahvale has the world’s largest spring-fed swimming pool, so there’s plenty of room for everyone.

9. Take a vineyard tour on the 290 Wine Shuttle

Few feelings compare to that of enjoying a glass of wine on a summer evening. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just like to imbibe every now and then, the 290 Wine Shuttle offers the experience of a lifetime. You can visit dozens of wineries in and around Fredericksburg - and you don’t even need a designated driver!

10. Sink your teeth into delicious BBQ at The Salt Lick

I used to be a vegetarian, but now, there’s nothing I look forward to more than a heaping plate of BBQ. The original Salt Lick in Driftwood serves up exactly that, and the meat is so good, it practically melts in your mouth.

11. Sample farm-fresh peaches from Jenschke Orchards

Biting into a ripe, juicy peach is - for me, at least - one of summer’s greatest joys. Getting to pick them myself is even better, and Jenschke Orchards in Fredericksburg lets you do just that. They even sell homemade peach ice cream!

Do you agree with me that these are the best things to do in Texas during summer? Let me know in the comments!

If you need somewhere to stay during your summer travels, I can almost guarantee there’s a Hilton wherever you’re going!

The Coolest Visitor Center In Texas Has A Gift Shop And Museum With Route 66 Memorabilia

The Texas Route 66 Visitor Center in Amarillo offers a nostalgic experience with memorabilia and a documentary about the historic highway.

Get your kicks on the Mother Road when you visit the Texas Route 66 Visitor Center in Amarillo. Paying homage to the historic highway that ran straight through the city, this unique destination features all sorts of authentic memorabilia and gift items. It's a must-visit next time you find yourself up in the Panhandle!

Calling all Route 66 enthusiasts! If you're fascinated by all things relating to the Mother Road, then you simply must stop by one of the coolest visitors centers in Texas next time you're in Amarillo.

The center is located just south of the historic highway and offers a unique glimpse into both the heyday and legacy of the route that helped shape America.

Upon stepping inside, one of the first things you'll notice is the logo of a chicken on the floor.

This is because the visitor center is located in the building that once housed Myers Fried Chicken Restaurant, which was open 24/7 from 1948 to 1970 to serve hungry Route 66 travelers.

While the center does have a gift shop with kitschy items like T-shirts and mugs, that's only the tip of the iceberg.

It also functions as a museum with tons of unique Route 66 memorabilia, including maps, photographs, and so much more.

Visitors can also watch a documentary called "Two For the Road" which tells the story of Route 66 in Texas. The film is shown daily.

Even if you just pop in for a couple of minutes to pick the owners' brains, rest assured your visit will be worthwhile. Not only can they tell you anything you'd like to know about the Mother Road, but they're also some of the friendliest people you'll ever meet.

So for one of the most interesting and nostalgic visitor center experiences of your life, look no further than the Texas Route 66 Visitor Center.

It's the perfect starting point for getting your kicks on Route 66!

Visit the Route 66 Visitor Center website or the Texas Route 66 Visitor Center Facebook page for more information, such as current hours of operation.

What is the coolest visitor center in Texas that you've been to? We'd love to hear all about your experience in the comments!

This isn't the only Route 66 attraction in Texas. One of my favorite road trips leads to the most charming Route 66 towns in the state, and it's such a fun journey. But no road trip is complete without snacks, so check out our Road Trip Snack Guide for 50 on-the-go bites to keep you fueled while you explore.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/texas/route-66-road-trip-tx/

There is a whole lot of open road to travel in the US. Find even more scenic road trips like Route 66 in Texas on OIYS:

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The Magnificent Waterfall In New Jersey That’s Located Only Minutes From Main Street

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Texas Kids Adventures

Palo Duro Creek Ranch

Canyon, texas.

Want to experience the natural beauty and rugged terrain of Palo Duro Canyon without hiking? Palo Duro Creek Ranch is a working cattle ranch that borders Palo Duro Canyon State Park and offers kid-friendly Jeep tours and horseback rides.

Jeep tour packages are 1 hour, 2 hours or 3 hours to see seasonal waterfalls and cliffs that can’t otherwise be seen from within the neighboring state park.  Experience stunning landscapes and view local wildlife, and don’t miss the hoodoo rock garden of geologic wonder. Jeep tours are for all ages, and kids under 4 are free. 

Discounts are available for groups, military or law enforcement and 65 years or older.

Experience the rugged beauty of the canyon while horseback riding along on the rim of the Palo Duro Canyon, for adults and kids ages 8 and up. For the younger cowboys and cowgirls less than 8 years old, guided pony rides near the main office will ensure they have a great horseback experience.

Special needs:

Call to ask about your child’s needs for Jeep tours and horseback riding.  

Know before you go:

Bring a camera for beautiful scenery.   Make reservations in advance since tours book daily. 

Palo Duro Creek Ranch 11301 TX-217 Canyon, TX 79015 (806)488-2100  www.paloduroranch.com

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An all-too-short afternoon at Palo Duro Creek Ranch

The area around Canyon Texas, near Amarillo, is one of my favorite places on Earth. I travel often and I'm fortunate to have seen a lot of the world so I try not to throw around phrases like “My favorite” and “The best” but this area of the country is what I think of first when someone asks me for trip recommendations. I have a lot of fantastic travel memories but the memories of the afternoon my family and I spent at Palo Duro Creek Ranch are of a just about perfect day. 

Palo Duro Creek Ranch doesn't often show up on Google searches of things to do in the area and I think it is the  best  thing to do in the area. 

Spring and summer are the most popular times to visit this area. Read more about visiting Palo Duro Canyon during the off-season.

Table of Contents

Palo Duro Creek Ranch Canyon TX – What is it?

Palo Duro Creek Ranch – you might also hear it referred to as Elkins Ranch – is a piece of privately owned land in Palo Duro Canyon, not to be confused with Palo Duro Canyon State Park, which is operated by Texas Parks and Wildlife. You can explore a lot of Palo Duro Canyon via the state park but the land that sits on Palo Duro Creek Ranch is much cooler to explore and offers a much more unique experience.

In addition to being a tourist attraction, Palo Duro Creek Ranch is also a working ranch. The scenery is about the same as what you'll find on the state park side but the sense of hushedness that comes from a lack of other humans makes it really special. 

Palo Duro Canyon is the second-largest canyon in the United States. I'll let you guess what the first is. When I tell people outside of Texas about how awesome Palo Duro is, there's at least a 50-percent chance they haven't heard of it. Canyon is kind of a sleepy little college town and nearby Amarillo isn't exactly the biggest city in Texas, so it's not an area that is widely known. 

Part of me has mixed feelings about sharing the secret but the other part of me wants everyone to have the experience of seeing the canyon.  

Why go to Palo duro creek ranch?

Palo Duro Creek Ranch offers several tour options that allow you to experience the rugged terrain and soak in the beauty of the scenery without running into as many humans as you do in Palo Duro State Park. You'll have the opportunity to see wildlife that you might not get in Palo Duro Canyon State Park and, if you want to, you can have a really cool jeep experience, which is what we did. 

We went during the off-season so we were the only tour group on the property at the time. It was a fantastic afternoon that had the “away from it all” vibe. If there were other tour groups on the property, maybe a little bit of that would be lost but you're still giving yourself more of a people-free experience than exploring Palo Duro State Park . I'm not knocking the park at all, by the way. You should absolutely go and spend time there. But, do this, too. 

Palo Duro Ranch Jeep Tours – and other tour options at Palo Duro Creek Ranch (AKA Elkins Ranch)

I mention that Palo Duro Creek Ranch is also known as Elkins Ranch, which is the former name. When we visited, the sign at the entrance still said Elkins Ranch, which was a little confusing. Whatever you call it, there are some great tour options here.

There are several options for Jeep tours and horse tours listed on the website. You can find the different options at Palo Duro Ranch Jeep Tours here . 

We did Hidden Springs Canyon, which was a two-hour tour. I really wanted to do the Spirit of Palo Duro Canyon which takes you all the way to the canyon floor but we were bumping up against another commitment and had to opt for the shorter tour length. We did get a good view of the canyon floor, though, and saw two coyotes chasing a rabbit, which is probably something you won't see on the park side in broad daylight.

Is Palo Duro Creek Ranch a good activity for kids?

My kids really enjoyed themselves at Palo Duro Creek Ranch. The jeep ride is pretty rough, which may not be as fun for younger kids – or any adults with a back or neck problem – but everyone will enjoy the views of the wide open spaces. There were several spots where we got out of the vehicle to check out the scenery that could be very dangerous if your kids can't follow directions to stay away from the rock's edges where the drop-offs are steep. 

Kids are safe inside the vehicle but parts of the canyon aren't safe for kids to run around freely. 

Obviously, if your kids can't follow directions to stay well away from these steep drops, this might not be the activity for you. My kids are junior thrillseekers and were unhappy with my decision not to allow them to get this close to the views but I was confident in their ability to listen to me. 

We had the best guide and he gets an A+++ for being absolutely wonderful with our kids. 

Looking for somewhere to stay in Amarillo or Canyon Texas? Check out Booking.com .

Not traveling to Texas? Check out my favorite Montana Itineraries:

Two days in Butte – Top things to do in Butte Montana

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Take A Wild Ride At Palo Duro Creek Ranch

Everyone knows that the Grand Canyon is the largest in the United States, but you do you where the second largest is at? You can imagine our surprise, when we discovered that it lies just south of Amarillo, Texas. Yes, the panhandle plains are home to Palo Duro Canyon, which is HUGE! While our visit to this Route 66 city was chocked full of stops, we knew that we had to set a day aside just to explore this canyon area. What better way to see it up close than a jeep ride right down into it? Our friends at Visit Amarillo arranged a time for us to take a wild ride at Palo Duro Creek Ranch .

We want to thank Visit Amarillo and Palo Duro Creek Ranch for their hospitality. Rest assured all opinions are our own. 

During our research for this visit, we had the opportunity to connect with a bunch of people from the region, through Facebook. When we surveyed them on places that were “must-sees”, Palo Duro Canyon was at the top of the list. To be honest, we had never heard of it. After Googling it, we were dumbfounded that such a natural wonder could stay so well hidden from public knowledge. We knew that we had to help get the word out about this fantastic destination. One day earlier, we had been in Canyon, Texas to tour the Panhandle-Plains Museum .

Being so close to the canyon, we expected to see it. Obviously, we were completely wrong. After all, the canyon is lower than the ground around you, so it doesn’t show on the horizon as mountains would. It was apparent we would have to wait. After a quick run down the interstate, we jumped on Highway 217, which leads to Palo Duro. It was still about 10 miles to our destination, so the anticipation was really building. While the elevation is greater on the high plains, the flatness reminded us of our home state of Kansas.

By the time we saw the dirt road turn-off for Palo Duro Jeep Tours, our anticipation had grown to peak levels. To think that we would have the chance to spend two hours seeing the canyon up close was so thrilling. Oh wait, now we had to traverse the dirt road to the ranch. Oh well, it just meant that it built the suspense even more. Soon enough, we turned a bend in the road, and the ranch came into view. It reminded us of something right out of the Old West, and we could hardly wait to meet the staff of Palo Duro Creek Ranch.

Our arrival was quite timely, as our guide was all ready to get going. After brief introductions, we loaded into the dust-covered Hummer. John would be leading us out into the field, and we were assured that he really knew his stuff. Our group included another couple with their son in tow. With John in the driver’s seat, there was plenty of room for the five us in the open back. As the instructions were given, we made note of the various handles and bars that would become much-needed supports for our excursion.

The tour started easy enough, with a short run to the edge of the canyon. During our tour, John would take periodic stops to tell us some of the histories behind Palo Duro Canyon. He would also serve as the staff photographer for the group, as he was happy to take pictures for everyone. Let me tell you, he knew all the good places to pose us, as long as we were willing to stand near a canyon edge.

Palo Duro Canyon was formed by the Prairie Dog Town Fork of the Red River, as it flowed across the land. The erosion has left an assortment of canyons, bluffs, caves, and exposed the colorful layers to the naked eye. His descriptions of what we were going to see just made us that much more anxious for the experience.

Steep Descent

As we arrived at the lip of the first descent, all of us were taken back with the beauty that unfolded before us. It is hard to imagine how one stream could do so much work. We held on, as John edged the jeep down the steep ravine. In places, the tires must have been skirting the edge, but it quickly became apparent that John knew this path like the back of his hand. Of course, he didn’t mind peppering in a little humor at the perfect times. We were barely into the tour, and we were already warming up to our guide at Palo Duro Creek Ranch. Let’s just hope that he kept his cool under the hot Texas sun.

Natural Beauty

After this first round of drop-offs, we arrived at an area that was used by cattle for grazing. While the first inhabitants of the canyon had been native Indians, European explorers would not discover these lands until Coronado came through in 1541. His group would meet the Apache tribe, who would eventually be uprooted by others. Once horses became part of everyday life for the Indians, the Kiowa and Comanche were able to force the Apache out of the canyon.

In 1852, a military group was assigned the task of finding the source of the Red River. This would lead to the rediscovery of Palo Duro Canyon. By 1874, the military had begun an operation to remove the native Indians from the area and move them to the reservations in Oklahoma territory. We had learned quite a bit about the Indian relocation from a visit to the Oklahoma History Center . With the land cleared, it was prime time for new settlers to move in.

Charles Goodnight would be one of the first, when he established his JA Ranch, in 1876. It was hard to imagine the idea of cattle grazing on this hilly terrain, but it reminded us just how hardy the Texas longhorn can be. John informed us that we were coming to an area that would be prime for some photo opportunities. That was good news, as we were all just getting over our white knuckle experience of the first descent.

John came to a stop along the trail and invited us to get out and stretch our legs. He continued our history lesson, as he told us about how the native Indians were brought to submission. In the late summer of 1874, members of four tribes had sought refuge in the canyon. With a stockpile of supplies, it looked like they were set to hold out through the winter. Twelve companies of cavalry were sent in to root them out. Splitting into three columns, the cavalry was able to force the Indians to abandon their supplies and retreat.

By capturing nearly 2000 of the Indian’s horses, it left them mostly on foot. This dealt a blow that they would not recover from. The Indians would eventually return to their Fort Sill reservation, as they no longer had the ability to survive the winter. After finishing his tale, John escorted us to the edge of the bluff, which overlooked the canyon floor. Of course, first, we posed for a few photos with the horsepower that brought us to this point.

Height Awareness

The edge of the bluff offered some unique viewing opportunities. What we discovered was that I was the only one who didn’t mind the height. Seeing this box canyon firsthand made it easy to understand why the native Indians had chosen this area to hole up. There are so many points that people could hide, and navigating them looked rather difficult. Since my co-participants wouldn’t hazard the approach, I decided to record some video for them to see the drop-off. Our visit to Palo Duro Creek ranch was turning out to be quite an experience.

Untold Beauty

When we reached the edge of the bluff, we found that the valley laid out before our eyes. All of the colors, found in the various layers of soil, were so amazing. Here and there we could make out small geological formations, which John promised we would be seeing up close later in the tour. Even in the hot July summer, the greens were popping all over the canyon floor. Time to get back to the jeep and continue our journey.

Who Do Hoodoo?

Once we made it to the canyon floor, the amazement just kept getting bigger. Here and there we would spot a skink or lizard sunning itself on a formation. While we had seen a few caves that were eroded in the hillside, now we were up close with some hoodoos. These fascinating formations are created when a hard rock sits atop a softer under-surface. Over time, erosion from the elements will wear away the surrounding soil. What is left is these chimney-like structures. Sometimes referred to as tent rocks, these are commonly found in canyon settings.

The layers of color we were seeing are created from the various ages where new material was deposited. From our visit to the Panhandle-Plains Museum, we knew that this region had been a swamp at one time. This is the section where the red coloring is found. It comes from the oxidation created in the tidal pools that would have been found long ago. Seeing the color bands from this angle made it easier to understand the passing of time.

Finding Shade

With our tour now passing the two-hour point, we knew our time was limited. John was happy to make some suggestions for more photo opportunities. Posing under one of the hoodoos allowed us a brief break in the rare shade found in Palo Duro Canyon. A few more minutes exploring this unique landscape, and it was time to load back into our all-terrain chariot. This was one of those experiences that began forming as an article in my mind, even as we were still in the canyon. We knew that we had to pass along this amazing destination to all of you so that you could see it for yourself.

Heading Back Up

As we made our way back up the bluffs, we found ourselves back in white knuckle situations. It seemed easier to accept driving along drop-offs when you are moving away from them. While Crystal focused on watching where we were headed, I took the opportunity to look back at where we had been. It still amazes me, when I watch this video, at just how steep the climb was that we had just made.

Happy Campers

Looking back at our experience at Palo Duro Creek Ranch, it ranks as one of those unforgettable memories. While the amount of our exertion was low, it had still offered a few heartbeat racing moments. In the end, we had made some new friends, including our amazing tour guide. John had made our journey memorable by making sure to take the time to show us all of the nooks and crannies that he has discovered over his time driving guests through the canyon. His capable driving skills, great backstories, and friendly humor had endeared all of us to him. You can bet we highly recommend him for a tour guide when you visit Palo Duro Creek Ranch. Now which of you would be brave enough to peek over the edge of the cliff?

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8 thoughts on “take a wild ride at palo duro creek ranch”.

That is quite a discovery! We were in Amarillo in 2011 but never found out about this. It is regrettable because the State Park has 30 miles of trails and lots of campgrounds where we could have parked our RV!

Perhaps another round of visits is in your future.

That was a cool tour and visit to this area, thanks for sharing the 2nd largest canyon in the USA

Hope you get a chance to see it firsthand someday.

I hadn’t heard of Palo Duro Creek Canyon either. But we were just as surprised to see the dramatic landscape–canyons, hoodoos, etc–in and around Big Bend National Park. I guess the 8 mile long Santa Elena Canyon there is along the Mexican border, so maybe doesn’t rank in U.S. canyons.

It sounds like another park we need to explore. Thanks.

I’ve never been to Amarillo, but Palo Duro Creek Ranch certainly has piqued my interest! I love adventure, so exploring the canyon is right up my alley, not to mention the gorgeous photo ops!

Patti, I think you would love it. Be sure to come back and see more articles about Palo Duro Canyon over the next few weeks.

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Palo Duro Canyon Jeep Tours at Elkins Ranch

RR2, Box 289 (Hwy 217), Canyon , Texas USA

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This is an awesome jeep tour!! Do it!

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Palo Duro Canyon is the second-largest canyon in the United States. Dubbed the Grand Canyon of Texas, this canyon is awe-inspiring. Spanning a distance of 120 miles long, 20 miles wide and more than 800 feet deep, this is no little crack in the ground. To put things into perspective, Palo Duro State Park encompasses a mere 5% of the canyon’s expanse; the rest is privately owned. As you plunge into the canyon depths from the ranger station, it’s hard to believe that the massive canyon laid out before you is just a slight 5% of what this canyon offers. Between state- and private-funded activities, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy while visiting this geological wonder.

Be sure to get your FREE copy of the Top 10 Things to do in Palo Duro Canyon by clicking here . Join in on the fun as Randy and Caly talk about Palo Duro Canyon on the RVD Podcast by clicking here !

10. Visit the Visitor Center and Museum – Want to learn some fascinating history of the canyon? You’ll want to visit the Visitor Center, which houses an impressive gallery. Get your hands on some one-of-a-kind native art and goods found only in this region. Then be sure to explore the exhibits, videos and information on the canyon. The Visitor Center is home to a wall of windows promising a view of some jaw-dropping expanses. The staff is incredibly knowledgeable about the area. It is happy to answer any questions and point you in the right direction to walk out with a piece of art to commemorate your trip to Palo Duro Canyon.

9. TEXAS Outdoor Musical —This outdoor drama runs seasonally in the amphitheater in Palo Duro Canyon. This show brings to life the lives of the Texas Panhandle Pioneers of the 1880s, with the canyon walls serving as the dramatic backdrop. Running for more than 57 years, millions of people have attended this show. Reserve tickets well in advance to ensure you get to see this show. For an authentic experience, arrive early for the Chuck Wagon Texas BBQ dinner, a hearty meal full of smoked meat favorites with all the fixins.

8. Take a Jeep tour – If hiking and biking aren’t your thing, you can still explore the canyon without expending too much energy other than the occasional hoot and holler. Take a Jeep tour of the canyon with Palo Duro Creek Ranch and see the canyon up close and personal—via the expert driving skills of your tour guide. Tours range from 1 to 3 hours and take guests from the canyon rim to the depths of the canyon floor, passing geological wonders, wildlife and native flora and fauna. You’ll want to have your camera in hand as you pass Yellow Bear Bluff and Crazee Woman Slide before descending into the depths of the canyon walls, passing the unforgettable sights the canyon affords to its visitors.

7. Zip across the canyon floor – Ready for a genuinely adrenaline-filled experience? Zip across the canyon for a bird’s eye view of the massive expanse below. Palo Duro Zip, located just outside the main entrance to the park on the rim, offers zipline tours. Fly high across a quarter of a mile of the canyon and experience the canyon from an entirely different perspective. For those that can’t quite stomach flying over an 800-foot-deep canyon, you can join the chicken tour to view the expanse of the canyon with your two feet planted firmly on the ground.

6. Embrace your pioneer roots – Take a horseback ride through the canyon for those who want to embrace their roots and try something authentic. Several outfitters take guests deep into the canyon walls, promising an epic experience. As your horse expertly trots along the trails, you can almost imagine the feet that crossed these paths before you, forging a new life and a new way in the wild expanse of Texas.

5. Grab a world-famous hamburger – A world-famous hamburger in a remote canyon in Texas is a thing? Yes, it is. You must stop at the Palo Duro Trading Post, deep in the heart of the canyon. To say this trading post is well-stocked is an understatement. You’ll find everything you need—and want—in this canyon outpost. The burgers are delicious, and adorning their side is a pile-high stack of shoestring, piping hot French fries. After you’ve had your fill of perfectly toasted buns filled with uniquely seasoned hamburger patties, stock up on any camp items you may need. Then peruse the incredibly well-stocked store boasting clothing, accessories, jewelry, toys and much more. Who knew all this was nestled perfectly into the canyon floor?

4. Watch an epic sunrise over the canyon – The sun slowly rises over the horizon, gently kissing the canyon walls and lighting them on fire; it’s a sight you’ll want to sit and revel in—and capture with your camera. The colors of the canyon range from hues of reds, yellows, oranges, pinks, greens to shades of brown. As the sun ignites all these colors on fire, it’s a sight you won’t want to miss. The Canyon Overlook parking lot on the upper level next to the Visitor Center is a great place to take in this daily natural wonder.

3. Bike like a true Texan – As they say, everything is bigger in Texas, and biking through Palo Duro Canyon is no exception. The canyon boasts many bike-friendly trails, including the Capital Peak Trail, encompassing all ability levels from easy to difficult. And if you’re passionate about biking, join in on the 24 Hours in the Canyon bike race hosted every June in the canyon. This race is the country’s only 24-hour simultaneous road and mountain bike event. It’s your opportunity to bike for a cause through breathtaking terrain.

2. Hike, hike, hike! – With more than 36 miles of trails ranging from easy to challenging, you’ll find an enjoyable hike while visiting the park. The geology inside of the canyon will have you hiking along sandstone canyon walls layered in sparkling gypsum capped in alabaster. Keep your eyes peeled for the many hoodoos that litter the canyon, ranging from cute and adorable to mighty and tall. The Lighthouse Trail is a popular hike that takes hikers to the towering duo of hoodoos rising from the sandy floors of the canyon to more than 300 feet. The Lighthouse Trail is a relatively flat (until the end, then expect up, up, up) trail traversing just under 3 miles (one way). Pick up the Lighthouse Trail from the Givens, Spicer, Lowry Trail for a slightly more challenging and longer hike, adding another 3 miles one way. This trail is a favorite among the rangers.

1. Camp at the base of the canyon – Whether you bring your RV or stay in one of the glamping tents, your stay will surely be unforgettable. There’s nothing more satisfying and exhilarating than camping at the base of the canyon. As the sun sets, painting the canyon walls in every red, orange and pink hue, keep your ears open as the coyotes begin their calls across the canyon walls. As their howls and yelps bounce around the canyon, you feel as if you’re one of the original inhabitants of the canyon, respecting the land and animals that had called this canyon home long before a human foot brushed across the sandstone basin.

Whether you visit for a day or stay in the canyon for several days, this is a place you’ll bookmark to return to again and again. A geological wonder and a force to be reckoned with, Palo Duro Canyon is one of Earth’s reminders of how genuinely mighty she is.

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• Palo Duro Canyon is the second-largest canyon in the USA, known for its stunning views and grand rock formations. It is a 6-hour drive from Dallas and located in the Texas Panhandle.
• Visitors can hike to the Lighthouse, a unique rock formation with a tiny window on top, or take a scenic drive around the canyon to appreciate its beauty. Horseback riding is also available for those who want a different experience.
• The Canyon Gallery and Visitor Center offers park information, exhibits, and a small museum. Camping is a popular option, and tourists can enjoy stargazing. The Texas Outdoor Musical is a must-see for music lovers.

Spanning Over 20 miles wide and 20 miles long, Palo Duro Canyon is the second-largest canyon in the USA. The majestic canyon’s deepest point is 800 feet and features some stunning outdoor views and grand rock formations. A 6-hour drive from Dallas and a 30-minute drive from Southern Amarillo, Palo Duro is located in the Texas Panhandle. It is one of the most adorable small towns in Texas because of its vibrantly-colored houses and hipster neighborhoods.

Open throughout the year, this tourist attraction gets most of its crowds during summer, when visitors flock to the park to watch Texas the Musical, while those traveling during the fall can also enjoy camping and hiking. Palo Duro is considered the Grand Canyon of the South because of its massive size and striking geological features, resembling the Grand Canyon. So, for those intent on visiting, here are some of the best things to do in Palo Duro Canyon, Texas.

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10 Hike To The Lighthouse In Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Although there are many things to see only in Texas , the Lighthouse in Palo Duro is unique due to its formation. It’s not a typical lighthouse seen on most beaches; it’s a tall rock formation with a tiny window on top and warm lights overlooking the entire canyon.

An easy hike toward the top , the entire trail to reach the Lighthouse spans 6 miles, making it ideal for beginners. With proper care and wearing the right gear, hikers can overcome the trail’s steep areas, especially at the final half of the ascend. Tourists who love an extra thrill can also try mountain biking to reach the peak of the lighthouse and admire it.

• There are a couple of pit stops and benches along the trail shaded by trees, where tourists can sip their water or eat snacks.
• The trailhead starts halfway along the state park drive.

9 Take The Scenic Drive Around Palo Duro Canyon

Palo Duro only has one main road for roaming around and getting inside the park; it’s the same road shaped like a serpentine at the top and becomes straighter as the park’s base is approached.

The scenic drive around the canyon should take twenty to thirty minutes and will make tourists appreciate why Palo Duro Canyon is Texas’s best state park. Visitors can also take the scenic drive to reach other hiking trails like The Lighthouse and the Rock Garden Trails or try other activities like zip lining.

The road can be bumpy at the top.

8 Try Horseback Riding

Tourists can try horseback riding instead of hiking to visit famous trails in Palo Duro Canyon, including the Lighthouse, the Juniper, and the Rock Garden Trails. Horseback riding is perfect for families tagging their kids along and wanting to witness stunning views in the canyon.

There are several horse stables close to the park’s trading post area where tourists can take a glimpse of from the main road. However, they should note that not all stables are always open, and it’s best to reserve a horse at Palo Duro Riding Stables.

• Prices at Palo Duro Riding Stables range from $100 to $150, depending on the tourist’s chosen horse and the season.
• Riders should arrive at the stable half an hour before the riding proper for instructions and safety tips.

Palo Duro Riding Stables is closed on Mondays. It’s also best to call their hotline to reserve a horse, especially during peak season (summer).

7 Admire Views At The Visitor Center And The Canyon Gallery

The Canyon Gallery and Visitor Center is one of the first spots tourists will see near the Palo Duro entrance. The Civilian Conservation Corps built this structure using native stone in 1933, which is why the center still stands solid and unwavering.

Visitors can get park maps and additional information about the park inside the center. Plus, they can also learn all about different hiking trails in Palo Duro, watch exhibits and video productions, and visit a small museum showcasing historical facts about the canyon.

• Tourists can buy snacks and drinks inside the center before hiking.
• Travelers can buy many souvenir items in the center to commemorate their tour of the Canyon.

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6 Go Camping At Palo Duro Canyon And Enjoy Some Of The Best Stargazing In Texas

Out of the many awesome things to do in Texas , watching the beautiful stars tops the list. Outdoor enthusiasts will love camping in Palo Duro as the canyon has a wide variety of campsites easily accessible from the main road, with different prices and amenities.

Tourists can check out Palo Duro’s list of campsites to find one that matches their preferences and book online immediately because the canyon rarely accepts walk-in campers.

• Prices for camping sites start at $26 per night and $10 per car.
• There are campsites in Palo Duro Canyon with electricity, so tourists don’t need to worry about their gadgets getting their batteries drained.

5 Watch The Texas Outdoor Musical

Music lovers won’t be disappointed due to the Texas Outdoor Musical and find it one of the amazing places to visit in Texas . The annual event is organized from June to August, every Tuesday to Sunday evening, and showcased inside the state park’s Pioneer Amphitheater.

The musical is family-friendly and presents the Musical Romance of Texas Panhandle History, with regular theater performances about the history and culture of Texas and significant events in Palo Duro. Local bands also commonly join the musical to play their new songs and introduce themselves to more tourists.

• Shows start at 6 pm and end at 11 pm, and tourists can bring their outside snacks and drinks.
• Ticket prices range from $18 to $48, depending on the type of show, whether the tourist is a child or an adult, and the chosen seat section.

4 Explore The Big Cave Via The Juniper Hiking Trail

Known as the hidden cave in Palo Duro Canyon, tourists can only access the Big Cave through the Juniper Hiking Trail at the park’s southern end, and it takes an hour or two before hikers can reach the inside and admire beautiful views.

The Big Cave gets typically crowded quickly, with tourists taking photos of geological formations. There are not many activities to do inside the cave besides taking pictures and listening to the guide talk about the history of the rock formations, but it's worth a visit.

• There is no admission fee to go inside the Big Cave.

Tourists won’t see this on Google Maps because it’s a relatively small cave compared to other tourist spots inside the park.

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3 Go Ziplining Over The Palo Duro Canyon

Ziplining, one of the newest attractions in Pal Duro Canyon State Park, is best for tourists who love thrilling outdoor activities and want to witness panoramic canyon views. This fun activity allows tourists to glide and fly over the state park as high as 69 feet!

The entire ride crosses New Mexico and Dallas, and tourists are guaranteed safety with a helmet and a harness.

• Ziplining costs $25 per person. There’s no option for two tourists to ride the same zipline together.
• Safety tour guides explain all the guidelines before letting visitors ride and fly.

Ziplining is ideal, even for kids! Tourists should inform the safety guides if they are tagging their kids along so they know how to teach the proper position when ziplining across Palo Duro.

2 Take A Palo Duro Creek Ranch Jeep Tour

The jeep tour in Palo Duro Canyon is perfect for those who don’t want to sweat and get tired from hiking long trails. Travelers should book with Palo Duro Creek Ranch for the ultimate experience with informative guides about the canyon’s diversity, history, and culture.

Riding the jeep lets tourists come across steep inclines, giant rock formations, and hills, with the most famous tours including the Black Hawk Tour, Hidden Spring Canyon Tour, and Palo Duro Canyon Tour. Jeep tours range from one to three hours, giving tourists enough time to take many photos of the views.

• The Black Hawk Tour is ideal for visitors who want to visit the Lighthouse Monument.
• The Palo Duro Canyon Tour (three hours) costs $92, the Hidden Spring Canyon Tour (2 hours) costs $68, and the Black Hawk Tour (1 hour) costs $38.

Jeep tours are not available every Wednesday. Always check the official website of Palo Duro Creek Ranch for updated schedules and upcoming events.

1 Shop And Dine At The Palo Duro Trading Post

The Palo Duro Trading Post has everything for tourists – from souvenirs to local delicacies, beverages, camping needs, and more. This family-owned spot, opened in 2001, features an authentic restaurant, a local shop, and a fuel station. Souvenir shops sell mugs, clothes, fridge magnets, and medallions.

The snack bar inside Palo Duro Trading Post has hotdogs, sandwiches, fries, and burgers. Tourists can also find groceries and essentials, especially when they decide to stay the night by camping or booking a cabin.

• This trading Post, the one-stop shop in Palo Duro Canyon, opens daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The burgers here are a must-try with a side of homemade fries.

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Palo Duro Creek ranch

Black hawk tour.

1 hour tour of Palo Duro Canyon

Service Description

From the canyon rim, our tour begins a slow descent into Palo Duro with spectacular views of Palo Duro Canyon State Park and the famous Lighthouse monument. 400 feet below the rim, we travel along the plateau and around the outer perimeter of Black Hawk Mesa. Stop to witness the power of water - through time - over solid rock at Legend Falls. Capture fantastic North/South views of the canyon from Yellow Bear Bluff. Our tour continues through Mule Deer Meadow, a colorful carpet of wildflowers. Thrill to the unexpected as we climb up and over the exciting E.J. Pearson Pass on our return to the rim.

Upcoming Sessions

Cancellation policy.

For cancellations, please contact us at least 48 hours before your appointment to avoid being charged. Minimum booking of 2 people. We don't take out a ride with only 1 person.

Contact Details

11301 TX-217, Canyon, 79015

+ 8064882100

[email protected]