The Lighthouse Trail at Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Texas, is a 2.8-mile (one-way) trail that leads to the iconic Lighthouse rock formation, the park’s most popular trail. It is considered a moderately challenging route, taking an average of 2 hours to complete. The trail is a popular destination for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking, offering stunning views of the canyon and unique geological features.
Cost and Timings
The entrance fee for Palo Duro Canyon State Park is $8 per person, with children 12 and under admitted for free. The park is open daily from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM, and the Lighthouse Trail is accessible year-round, though it can be quite hot during the summer months.
| Fees | Rates |
|---|---|
| Entrance Fee | $8 per person |
| Children (12 and under) | Free |
| Camping | $16 to $25 per night |
The park’s visitor center is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily, and guided tours are available for an additional fee.
Unique Perspective
The Lighthouse Trail offers a unique perspective on the geology and history of Palo Duro Canyon. The trail winds through a diverse landscape, with towering cliffs, colorful rock formations, and lush vegetation. Hikers will encounter a variety of plant and animal life, including cacti, yucca, and possibly even rattlesnakes.
The Lighthouse rock formation is the trail’s namesake and a prominent feature of the park. The formation is a 300-foot-tall red rock pillar at the edge of eroded cliffs, recognized as a National Natural Landmark.
Real-Life Incidents and Statistics
In 2021, Palo Duro Canyon State Park saw over 600,000 visitors, making it one of the most popular state parks in Texas. The Lighthouse Trail is the park’s most popular trail, with over 3477 reviews on AllTrails.
Safety Measures
Hikers are advised to bring plenty of water, wear appropriate clothing and footwear, and use sun protection. The last half mile of the trail before reaching the lighthouse is somewhat challenging, with several places where a fall could result in injury. Rope may be helpful in these areas.
References
- TripAdvisor. (2024). Lighthouse Trail – All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go. Retrieved from https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g55580-d105900-Reviews-Lighthouse_Trail-Canyon_Texas.html
- American Southwest. (n.d.). Lighthouse Trail, Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Texas. Retrieved from https://www.americansouthwest.net/texas/palo-duro-canyon/lighthouse-trail.html
- Texas Hiking. (n.d.). Palo Duro – Lighthouse Trail – Texas Hiking. Retrieved from http://www.texashiking.com/Locations/ShowLocation.aspx?LocationID=1874
- Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. (n.d.). Palo Duro Canyon State Park Trails Map. Retrieved from https://tpwd.texas.gov/publications/pwdpubs/media/park_maps/pwd_mp_p4506_0007p.pdf
- AllTrails. (n.d.). The Lighthouse Trail, Texas – 3477 Reviews, Map. Retrieved from https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/texas/the-lighthouse-trail.