Canyon Colors & Lighthouse Hike - Palo Duro Canyon (Hiking & Camping)
Schedule
Sat, 28 Mar, 2026 at 08:30 am
UTC-05:00Location
Palo Duro Canyon State Park - Texas Parks and Wildlife | Canyon, TX
Advertisement
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the stunning landscapes of Palo Duro Canyon State Park on this 8.5-mile moderate hike. Our journey will take us to the park’s iconic Lighthouse Rock, one of Texas’s most famous natural landmarks, offering breathtaking views of the canyon’s vibrant cliffs and sweeping vistas.We’ll hike at a steady, enjoyable pace, winding through the canyon’s rugged terrain, dramatic rock formations, and colorful layers of sandstone. Along the way, we’ll soak in the beauty of the high desert, enjoy photo-worthy viewpoints, and share the camaraderie of fellow outdoor enthusiasts.
After our hike, we’ll head out of the park to Sad Monkey Mercantile to replenish ourselves with some great food.
For those who want to extend the adventure, we will be camping out after the hike. Watching the sunset over the canyon and spending the night under the open sky makes this an experience you won’t forget.
Additionally, before leaving on Sunday morning, we’ll have the option for a short 3-mile hike.
Whether you join for the hike alone or stay to camp, this trip is perfect for adventurers who love scenic trails, iconic landmarks, and a touch of Texas magic.
Campsite(s) I recommend: Hackberry Camp Area
Starting point: https://maps.app.goo.gl/axrRdQi34iG7PtMV9
Eats: Sad Monkey Mercantile (Sat. 9 AM-9 PM) - https://maps.app.goo.gl/1MwyZDKsiZccn39z9
Important information:
- Reservations: They are available online from https://texasstateparks.reserveamerica.com/, 30 days prior to the event for a day pass, and 5 months prior for camping reservations. See the shared Google Calendar (https://calendar.google.com/calendar/u/0?cid=ZGU0NjNhMzkxNzBhNGQ2MjUyZTBhMGFiODgyNDFmNDM4ZjAzYmFlMTNkNTczZjM2NTViNDk2NDc5NTc0YmJiMUBncm91cC5jYWxlbmRhci5nb29nbGUuY29t) which has all of the scheduled events, and event reminders about obtaining passes. Make sure you print them out and bring them with you to make your trip a smooth one!
- Waiver/Release: Make sure you fill out a waiver/release form (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vdhCDW7bpvdlmnkPrV_n0iUwR_7QB7GRvBBT1tLWlKY/edit?usp=sharing) and either send it to me as a PDF (Facebook messenger is fine), or print it out and bring it with you. I will have blanks available at the start of the event if you forget. However, you WILL NOT BE ALLOWED to join the adventure without one being completed!
- What to bring?: Required items are - A positive attitude, at least 3L of water, and snacks. Nice to have things are - Personal first aid kit, electrolytes, hiking poles, head covering and/or sunscreen.
- As always: If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to post in the discussion or message me directly. I'm happy to help, and answer any questions!
#hikingwithjosh #hikingadventures #hiking #optoutside #getoutside #outdoors
Advertisement
Where is it happening?
Palo Duro Canyon State Park - Texas Parks and Wildlife, 11450 Park Road 5,Lake Tanglewood, Texas, Canyon, United StatesEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.
