The second-largest canyon in the United States is not in the West. Visit this part of Texas to appreciate amazing geological wonders.
In the heart of the Texas Panhandle region, the town of Canyon has historic attractions, a university atmosphere, and a very big canyon. Drive 12 miles (19 kilometers) from the city to Palo Duro Canyon State Park, which is also called the Grand Canyon of Texas. It is 120 miles (190 kilometers) long, more than 800 feet (240 meters) deep and up to 20 miles (32 kilometers) wide, as much as 2 miles (3 kilometers) wider than Arizona’s Grand Canyon.
Hike or mountain bike the trails through the park. One route leads to the spectacular lighthouse rock. Note that trails may close during and immediately after rain. While at the park, watch the outdoor musical Texas with the canyon walls as a perfect natural backdrop. The original JA Ranch that began operating here in 1876 remains a working business today.
Participate in events all year in Canyon, with a focus on Historic Downtown Square and its many stores and restaurants. West Texas A&M University lends a vibrancy throughout the city. Join energetic students at sporting events on campus or at restaurants and bars in town.
The Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum located on the university campus offers varied permanent and changing exhibits. Among the museum’s attractions is a transportation exhibit featuring vintage vehicles. See the interesting display devoted to iconic Panhandle windmills. A reconstructed pioneer town models those throughout the Panhandle in the late 19th century. Look for the oldest Anglo-built structure in the Panhandle it was part of a ranch and moved piece by piece to its current location. The extensive collection includes about 8,000 pieces of Texas and Southwestern art.
Visit Neblett Park to see the scaled-down Sad Monkey Scenic Railroad engine and rolling stock that historically provided a 2-mile (3-kilometer) tour near Palo Duro Canyon until bureaucratic policies brought it to an end in 1996. Stay in Canyon as your base to visit other Texas Panhandle locations, including interesting and eclectic Amarillo, 19 miles (30 kilometers) away.
