America’s Second Largest Canyon Hides Vibrant Red Rock Formations in the Texas Panhandle

Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Texas

In the Texas panhandle, where the land splits open into Palo Duro Canyon, you’ll find a place that’s been drawing people in for thousands of years. From ancient tribes to modern climbers, this massive gash in the earth keeps proving itself special.

Here’s what makes the second longest canyon in North America pure Texas gold.

Second-Largest Canyon in America

This natural wonder stretches 25-40 miles long with an average width of 6 miles, expanding to 20 miles in some areas.

The entire canyon system extends about 120 miles from Canyon to Silverton, reaching depths of 800 feet below the surrounding plains.

The park sits at an average elevation of 3,500 feet above sea level, creating dramatic views as visitors descend into this Texas-sized wonder.

Millions of Years Old Geological Layers

The canyon walls span more than 250 million years featuring:

The bottom Quartermaster Formation, the middle Tecovas and Trujillo Formations, and the top Ogallala Formation (10 million years old).

Different minerals in each rock layer create consecutive bands of orange, red, brown, yellow, gray, maroon, and white rock.

The different rock layers erode with softer materials washing away faster than harder ones like the Ogallala and Trujillo formations.

Rock Pillars Made From Selective Erosion

Unusual rock formations called hoodoos form when harder rock layers protect softer rock underneath as erosion happens around them.

Sometimes called fairy towers or earth pyramids, Lighthouse Rock and hoodoos at the south end of Capitol Peak show clear evidence of erosion.

Native Americans Used Canyon For 12,000 Years

The sheltered nature of the canyon, access to water, and abundant wildlife made it an ideal settlement location for thousands of years.

When Spanish explorer Coronado arrived in 1541, he found Apache Indians in the canyon, relying on buffalo for food, clothing, and shelter.

After Plains Indians gained horses, the Comanche and Kiowa used the canyon as a key campground for their trade deals with the Mexicans.

Diverse Trail Network of Over 30 miles

For an easier walk, try the 2.5-mile Rock Garden Trail from the Juniper Day Use Area, that passes through an ancient landslide area with giant boulders.

The CCC Trail crosses four historic bridges built by the Civilian Conservation Corps while descending 500 feet through all four geologic layers.

Lighthouse Trail Is Top Park Experience

The 5.9-mile Lighthouse Trail leads to the park’s iconic 310-foot high stone pillar that looks like a lighthouse, another reason why it’s so popular.

The lighthouse formation appears from miles away. The path climbs 531 feet and ends at the base of this National Natural Landmark.

1,500 Acres of Riding Terrain for Horseback

The park features approximately 16-18 miles of designated equestrian trails, including the Juniper Cliffside Trail and parts of the Lighthouse Trail.

You can bring your horses (with a current negative Coggins test required) or arrange guided rides through the park which requires reservations.

River Crossings Highlight a Scenic Drive

The park road crosses the Prairie Dog Town Fork of the Red River seven times in just 4 miles, giving drivers multiple views of the waterway.

The river begins on the level surface of the Llano Estacado before dramatically plunging off the Caprock Escarpment.

For a peaceful riverside walk, the Kiowa Trail offers a gentler path.

Historic Cabins Provide Immersive Experience

Book one of the three Rim cabins named after local landmarks: Sorenson, Lighthouse, and Goodnight with wooden fences on three sides.

Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in 1933, these stone structures offer incredible views from the canyon rim.

They’ve been updated with modern heating and cooling systems.

Luxury Camping Options & Modern Amenities

The park’s glamping sites have air conditioning, refrigerators, microwaves, coffee makers, gas grills, fire pits, covered porches, and porch swings.

Run by the same family that has owned the Trading Post for over 20 years, these sites can house up to six people with rates starting at $299 per night.

At your campsite, you can listen to coyotes howl at night and watch beautiful sunrises while sipping fresh coffee on a private porch.

A Trading Post Serves Legendary Burgers

The Palo Duro Trading Post, rated 4.2 on Tripadvisor, is popular for its meals, especially the hamburgers, which visitors often rave about.

Hikers spot the lighthouse formation from miles off as the trail climbs 531 feet, ending at the base of this National Natural Landmark.

The Trading Post also sells souvenirs and snacks.

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