If you’re planning a trip from Winslow, AZ, to Palo Duro Canyon State Park in Texas, this comprehensive guide will help you plan your journey and make the most of your adventure.
Distance and Travel Time
The distance between Winslow, AZ, and Palo Duro Canyon State Park is approximately 550 miles, and the travel time is around 9 hours, depending on traffic and the exact start and endpoints of your trip.
Cadillac Ranch
On your way to Palo Duro Canyon State Park, consider stopping by the famous Cadillac Ranch, an iconic art installation located on the historic Route 66 in Amarillo, Texas. This unique attraction features ten classic Cadillac cars buried nose-first in the ground, creating a colorful and unique photo opportunity.
Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Palo Duro Canyon State Park, often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” is a must-visit destination. The park offers a variety of activities, including hiking, biking, and horseback riding. With more than 30 miles of trails, there’s something for every skill level. For a more relaxed experience, you can enjoy a driving tour with a park ranger or explore the park’s historical sites and markers.
Camping and Accommodations
Palo Duro Canyon State Park offers a range of camping options, from campsites with water and electricity to tent sites, equestrian sites, and backpack camping areas. For a more luxurious experience, consider glamping, which includes air conditioning, luxury rustic furnishings, refrigerators, microwaves, coffee makers, games, bicycles, gas grills and fire pits, covered porches with rockers, porch swings, and more. The park also has three cabins on the canyon’s rim and four Cow Camp cabins on the canyon floor available for overnight stays.
Horseback Riding
If you’re bringing your own horses, Palo Duro Canyon State Park has 1,500 acres set aside for horseback riding, with trails specifically designed for equestrian use. You can also take a guided tour with Old West Stables on the canyon floor, which offers tours for the whole family to Timber Creek Canyon.
TEXAS Outdoor Musical
During the summer, don’t miss the TEXAS Outdoor Musical at the Pioneer Amphitheater in the park. This family-friendly show tells the stories, struggles, and triumphs of early settlers through singing, dancing, fireworks, and Texas humor.
Park Hours and Fees
Palo Duro Canyon State Park is open daily, with park headquarters opening at 8:00 am and closing times varying by season. The one-way park exit never closes. The entrance fee is $8 per person, and children 12 and under are free.
References
- ROAD TRIP USA: Cadillac Ranch and Palo Duro Canyon – Route 66
- Driving Down the Steep Descent Entrance to Palo Duro State Park on YouTube
- Palo Duro Canyon State Park Official Website
- Texas Parks and Wildlife: Palo Duro Canyon State Park
- Points of Interest between Amarillo, Texas and Winslow, Arizona on Meetways.com