Near Lighthouse Trail
Capitol Peak
Near Lighthouse Trail
Left to right - Fortress Cliff in the distance across Prarie Dog Town Fork of the Red River, west faces of Capitol Peak, and Capitol Mesa, looking east along Lighthouse Trail.
Near Lighthouse Trail
A parched Gabriel quenches his thirst on the Lighthouse Trail.
Near Lighthouse Trail
Morning shade.
Near Lighthouse Trail
Fall morning

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Hike Route

Lighthouse Trail

4.7 (36 Ratings)
A family-friendly trail that is the center-piece of Palo Duro Canyon.
5.9
mi
Distance
541
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
Family FriendlyRiver/CreekViewsWildflowers

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
5.92mi
Distance
541ft
Elevation Gain
541ft
Elevation Loss
50%
Max Grade
3,208ft
High Point
2,824ft
Low Point
Path Type
There and Back
Description
The Lighthouse Trail is the most popular trail in the Palo Duro State Park. The trail concludes with the centerpiece formation of stone pillar resembling a lighthouse that tower 300 ft. over the trail. Glimpses of the lighthouse formation can be seen from multiple viewpoints, but make sure you complete the trail to fully experience it up close (round trip around 6 miles). The trail begins relatively flat, but as it continues trails split, leaving options for gradual elevations and descents vs. more difficult paths for mountain biking.The path is mainly packed dirt and rock, but loose sandy paths are not absent from this trail. You do have to cross creek beds along the way, but usually they remain dry during summer seasons. Givens, Spicer, and the Lowry Trail all have a connecting point on this trail. A trailhead sign indicates any turns to different trails;stay left at each junction to continue on Lighthouse. To access the lighthouse pillar, there is a moderately difficult climb with possible large gaps to step up and over. Remember to bring water and a shade hat, and rest when needed on benches throughout the trail. Keep a head up for mountain bikers.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Jesse Weber