Sunset over Lighthouse Rock in Palo Duro Canyon State Park.

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Palo Duro Canyon

The pancake-flat Texas plains have some real texture at Palo Duro Canyon, it's just that all the drama is below the horizon rather than above it. The meandering gorge is a place of brilliant colors and vibrant life (the name means 'hard wood', for the groves of mesquite). The nearby town of Canyon, 20 miles south of Amarillo, makes for a comfy base.


Attractions

Must-see attractions

Guidebooks

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Get to the heart of Palo Duro Canyon with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.