Hike The Lighthouse Trail At Palo Duro Canyon State Park In Texas

We Texans love a good hike, and this one just might take the cake. The aptly-named Lighthouse Trail in Palo Duro Canyon State Park leads to its namesake: a breathtaking rock formation that towers majestically into the sky.

Clocking in at 5.7 miles, Lighthouse Trail is the most popular hike in Palo Duro Canyon — and justifiably so. It’s relatively easy, save for the final stretch, so kids and pets are encouraged to tag along.

AllTrails/Fernando Parraga

Markers have been placed every tenth of a mile, so getting lost is pretty much impossible. Without having to worry about navigation, your mind will be free to appreciate the little things, like how profoundly the red dirt pavement and lush greenery contrast against one another. Can you spot the lighthouse this early on? Hint: it’s on the left half of the picture.

AllTrails/Shelly Cordts

Plenty of benches located strategically along the path offer a shady spot to rest and recharge. Sit down for a spell before finishing out the hike strong, thanks to Mother Nature’s innate energy-boosting powers.

AllTrails/Darren Chambers

Just under three miles in, the trail’s namesake starts to unfold before your very eyes. This portion of the hike is slightly more difficult — sloping upwards about 500 feet — however, the unparalleled views outweigh any struggle that might ensue.

AllTrails/Christopher White

If that steep of an incline makes your palms sweat, there is another option! You’ll reach a fork in the road, identifiable by a lone picnic table. Right is a more gradual ascension, while a left provides a killer workout if that’s what you’re after. Either way, everyone gets an opportunity to see the main attraction — plus this striking panoramic view of the entire valley.

AllTrails/Holt Hambright

Pro-tip: start hiking in the late afternoon so you can watch the sun makes its nightly descent just behind the lighthouse. An added perk is how pleasant the temperature will be as you loop back out!

AllTrails/Ana De La Torre

Address: 11450 State Highway Park Road 5, Canyon, TX 79015. Park hours are 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.

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For more information, visit the park’s website or Facebook page.