Palo Duro Canyon State Park and Monument Valley are two of the most iconic destinations for state park touring enthusiasts. Both offer unique experiences, stunning landscapes, and a wealth of outdoor activities. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the key features, costs, and visitor information that advanced hikers and campers need to know.
Palo Duro Canyon State Park: The “Grand Canyon of Texas”
Palo Duro Canyon State Park is located in Canyon, Texas, and is known as the “Grand Canyon of Texas.” This stunning natural wonder offers a variety of activities, including hiking, biking, horseback riding, and camping.
Costs and Fees
- Entrance fee: $8 per person, $5 for seniors, free for children 12 and under
- Campsites: $16-$25 per night
- Glamping sites: $140-$180 per night
- Horseback riding: $30 per hour
- TEXAS Outdoor Musical: $20.50-$30.50 per person
Timings and Visitor Information
- Open year-round, 7 days a week
- Visitor Center hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- TEXAS Outdoor Musical: Tuesdays through Sundays in the summer
- Park phone number: (806) 488-2227
- TEXAS Outdoor Musical website: https://texas-show.com/
Hours and Rates
- Day use hours: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Camping hours: 30 minutes before sunset – 30 minutes after sunrise
- Campsites: $16-$25 per night
- Glamping sites: $140-$180 per night
Value and Unique Perspective
Palo Duro Canyon State Park offers a great value for advanced hikers and campers, with a variety of activities and stunning views. The park is known as the “Grand Canyon of Texas” and offers a rich history and challenging trails.
Monument Valley: A Symbol of the American West
Monument Valley is located on the Arizona-Utah border and is part of the Navajo Nation. This iconic destination offers stunning views and the opportunity to explore the unique geology and cultural history of the area.
Costs and Fees
- Entrance fee: $20 per vehicle, $10 per person for walk-ins or bikers
- Guided tours: $50-$125 per person
Timings and Visitor Information
- Open year-round, 7 days a week
- Visitor Center hours: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Park phone number: (435) 727-5874
- Guided tour information: https://www.monumentvalleyview.com/tours/
Hours and Rates
- Day use hours: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Entrance fee: $20 per vehicle, $10 per person for walk-ins or bikers
- Guided tours: $50-$125 per person
Value and Unique Perspective
Monument Valley offers a unique and valuable experience for state park touring enthusiasts, with its iconic views and the opportunity to explore the Navajo Nation. The park has been featured in numerous films and TV shows, making it a symbol of the American West.
Real Life Incidents and Statistics
- Palo Duro Canyon State Park is the second largest canyon in the country, with a length of 120 miles, a width of up to 20 miles, and a depth of over 800 feet.
- Monument Valley is located on the Arizona-Utah border and is part of the Navajo Nation.
- The TEXAS Outdoor Musical at Palo Duro Canyon State Park has been performed annually since 1966 and attracts over 60,000 visitors each summer.