Lighthouse in Palo Duro Canyon
Canyon, Texas
Details
Distance
5.88 miles
Elevation Gain
486 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Description
Added by Korey Taylor
Park entrance fee: $5/person (free for children under 12). You have year-round hiking, it's dog-friendly and incredibly unique geological formations.
Palo Duro Canyon is considered the Grand Canyon of Texas and the Lighthouse is one of the most unique geological formations found there. In order to reach it you must enter the Palo Duro Canyon State Park and drive down Park Road 5 until you reach the Lighthouse Trailhead parking lot on the right. The trailhead has two paths, one for Capital Peak and one for the Lighthouse, but both will lead you to the same point at the base of Capital Peak. The trail up to that point is relatively flat, but once you wrap around Capital Peak you begin to gain some elevation. From here you have 2.5 miles until you reach Lighthouse Rock. As you approach the end of the trail there is a bench that offers a great spot to photograph the entire formation.
There are several ways to actually climb onto the base of the Lighthouse- take the path that appeals to you most. Once you make it you'll find a large rock slab to walk around on. For the more advanced hiker there is a second rock slab you can climb up on that offers spectacular views of the canyon, but the path leading up there is a bit more dangerous. Please use cation and avoid if wet!
This can be a touristy hike, especially mid day and around sunset. If you want uninterrupted views I suggest going as early as possible to beat the crowds (and the heat). Accordingly, if you're doing this hike in the summer be prepared to haul a lot of water. Although this is a relatively short hike the temperature can reach 100 degrees in the summer, so being prepared is important. No matter what time of year though, this is a great hike that offers a unique Texas landscape and some fun photo-ops along the way.
Download the Outbound mobile app
Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use.
Get the appFeatures
Lighthouse in Palo Duro Canyon Reviews
GREAT HIKE!! The view was amazing at the top. Must see experience!! Does get kinda hard during the last mile or so but overall not too bad.
5.0
This is such a great trail! It’s easily accessible for so many people! I’ve seen children under 5 hiking this trail with their parents, so don’t be afraid to let them tag along! Dogs are also welcome! Be aware though, there are MANY bikers who take this trail, and they come behind you quick and often times, quietly. Always be aware of them, most are very good at letting you know which side they are coming on. SUMMER ADVISORY, temps are ridiculous. The sun gets sweltering. Bring plenty of water, plenty of sun screen and wear some kind of coverage - a hat or light jacket. Take it seriously, people have been air lifted off of the trails due to heat exhaustion. Other than that and the occasional snake or centipede, it’s so much fun! And what a wonderful view you have at the end!
5.0
If you have the chance, try to stay in one of the 3 cabins overnight as they each overlook the canyon... cannot wake up to a better view. I personally stayed in the Lighthouse Cabin which sleeps up to 4 people. In terms of the hike, I recommend the Givens, Spicer, Lowry Trail to get to the Lighthouse. It is the most demanding of the trails in that portion of the canyon.
5.0
This trail is long and hot! We started at 8am and made it out shortly after noon. Half our party only went the first 2 miles before it got too hot. I'm from South Texas, I'm very accustomed to hiking in hot weather but this was different. 90 degree day with 101 degree temps on the canyon floor. One gallon of water per person is a real necessity. The trail technically ends at a very disappointing spot (where you can't even see The Lighthouse). If you choose to go past the end of the trail, then it gets fun. Lots of rocks to climb over. The top of Lighthouse is pretty spectacular but nothing that made the 6 mile hike in and out worth it, in my opinion. Could gone to the first view point, taken some pics and gone back and been just as happy. I really don't know why everyone puts this so high on the list of best hikes in Texas. Any number of hikes in Big Bend or The Texas Hill Country are better than this one.
2.0
If you're in the area, definitely stop by and check out this place. You'll be out of reception, so know that in advance and take some water with you. Early in the morning or late afternoon is best. Texas summers are blazing. We saw tons of lizards, two tarantulas, a road runner, and a few rabbits (hares?). The hike to the lighthouse is moderate and easy since it's mostly flat. Watch out for snakes and stay on the trail. The view is awesome.
5.0
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
Nearby
Rock Garden Trail
Hike Juniper Cliffside Trail And Juniper Riverside Trail Loop
Explore the Route 66 Historic District of Amarillo
Cadillac Ranch
Camping at Caprock Canyon State Park
Community
Mobile Apps
© 2024 The Outbound Collective - Terms of Use - Privacy Policy