The best cycling routes in Palo Duro Canyon State Park
5.0
(2)
63
riders
6
rides
Touring cycling in Palo Duro Canyon State Park offers diverse routes through the second largest canyon in the United States. The landscape features depths up to 800 feet and 120 miles of colorful, cross-sectional sedimentary rock layers. Distinctive geological formations like hoodoos and the iconic Lighthouse rock formation are prominent features. The park provides over 30 miles of multi-use trails and a 16-mile paved road for various cycling experiences.
Best touring cycling routes in Palo Duro Canyon State Park
- The…
Last updated: July 10, 2026
19
riders
The Lighthouse Peak Trailhead – Capitol Peak View loop from Wolfberry Campground offers a unique mountain biking experience through the striking Palo Duro Canyon. You'll navigate varied terrain, from packed…
5.0
(1)
17
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
5.0
(1)
13
riders
15.9km
00:58
120m
120m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
16.0km
01:16
110m
110m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
The Kiowa Trail – Upper Comanche Trail loop offers a truly immersive touring cycling experience through the stunning Palo Duro Canyon State Park. Expect a moderate 10.8-mile (17.4 km) ride…
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Other adventures in Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Tips from the Community
Hey, I know exactly what you mean. At the beginning, I often doubted whether crypto trading was worthwhile. I stumbled across the Zeldrex investment platform (https://zeldrex-investment.org) and started testing its analysis tools. For users in Switzerland, the tools are clearly structured, which helped me to execute my first trades more confidently. After a few minor losses, I ventured a larger Bitcoin investment and finally made a profit. Since then, I plan my trades much more systematically.
0
0
This is a beautiful view, regardless if you're a geology enthusiast or not. The resistant sandstone beds of the Quartermaster and Tecovas formations are prominently exposed, while the overlying Trujillo and Ogallala formations have eroded away. This erosion creates dramatic geological features like the hoodoos, which are visible here. Massive Trujillo sandstone also caps the mesa to the north called Timber Mesa, home to the iconic formation "Santana's Face" by the Trading Post.
0
0
This convenient spot has it all - tasty food, restrooms, gifts and ice cream. The menu features tasty, quality meals that focus on meat dishes, with limited vegetarian options such as bread, salad, and fries.
0
0
Really easy trail, fitting for beginners. A lot of picture-worthy views and stops to recover while doing it, both for on-foot hikers as well as using bikes. It kinda reminds me of a few spots near Big Bend here in TX(not exactly in BB, but close-by, my folks and I used to go there to camp/shoot some cans with out Taurus guns from https://gritrsports.com/taurus/ pre-Covid)
2
0
One of the longer climbing sections on Lower Comanche that I thought was a great test of skill and power.
0
0
Not much shade on Comanche, this spot was it. Had a small stream trickling through.
0
0
Some of the most challenging trail in Palo Duro IMO. Lots of climbing with some ledges and tight switchbacks. I had some of the best views here and that made it all worth it. That said, there is very little shade and no water, be prepared. Sunscreen, water!
1
0
One of the few places that actually had a canopy overhead. There was a small trickling stream and it was nice and cool
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Palo Duro Canyon State Park?
Palo Duro Canyon State Park offers several touring cycling routes. Our guide features 4 routes, ranging from easy to moderate, allowing you to explore the canyon's unique landscapes.
What are the difficulty levels of touring cycling routes in Palo Duro Canyon State Park?
The touring cycling routes in Palo Duro Canyon State Park cater to various skill levels. You'll find 3 easy routes and 1 moderate route, making it accessible for both casual riders and those looking for a bit more challenge. For example, the Lighthouse Peak Trailhead – Capitol Peak View loop from Prairie Dog Town Fork Red River is a moderate option.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes?
Yes, several routes are suitable for families. Many of the easy-rated routes offer a pleasant experience. The Trading Post – Lighthouse Peak Trailhead loop from Goodnight Peak is an easy option that could be enjoyable for families.
Can I bring my dog on the touring cycling trails?
Palo Duro Canyon State Park generally allows leashed pets on trails. However, it's always best to check the official park rules regarding specific trails and pet regulations before your visit, especially for shared-use trails. You can find more information on the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website: tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/palo-duro-canyon.
Are there circular touring cycling routes in the park?
Yes, our guide includes several circular touring cycling routes, perfect for exploring without needing to retrace your steps. Examples include the Sunflower Trail – Lighthouse Peak Trailhead loop from Corral and the Lighthouse Peak Trailhead loop from Prairie Dog Town Fork Red River.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the touring cycling routes?
The canyon's terrain is diverse, featuring rugged beauty sculpted by millions of years of erosion. While some trails are paved, others are multi-use and can have red dirt surfaces. The red dirt generally offers good traction, but some turns might be sandy. You'll experience descents into the canyon and climbs out, with elevation changes up to 800 feet.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can see while cycling?
Palo Duro Canyon is rich with natural beauty and historical sites. While cycling, you can encounter distinctive geological formations like hoodoos, including the iconic Lighthouse rock formation. Other points of interest include Capitol Peak View and the The Big Cave. The El Coronado Lodge Visitor Center also offers historical exhibits and panoramic views.
Is there parking available for cyclists?
Yes, Palo Duro Canyon State Park provides various parking areas for visitors. Specific trailheads and attractions within the park will have designated parking. It's advisable to check the park map or official website for the most current information on parking locations and any associated fees.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Palo Duro Canyon?
Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant cycling conditions. Summers can be extremely hot, with temperatures on the canyon floor reaching up to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. It's strongly recommended to avoid long rides during the hottest parts of the day in summer and always carry plenty of water, regardless of the season.
Are e-bikes allowed on the trails?
Yes, e-bikes are permitted on many trails within Palo Duro Canyon State Park. This allows more visitors to enjoy the extensive trail system and scenic beauty of the canyon.
Where can I find food or amenities within the park?
The Trading Post, located on the canyon floor, offers souvenirs, snacks, and meals. For more extensive options, you would need to look outside the park. The El Coronado Lodge Visitor Center also provides facilities and information.
What wildlife might I encounter while cycling?
Palo Duro Canyon is home to diverse wildlife. While cycling, you might spot Aoudad sheep, wild turkeys, roadrunners, white-tailed and mule deer, coyotes, and bobcats. Keep an eye out for the threatened Texas horned lizard as well. Always observe wildlife from a respectful distance.
Most popular attractions in Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
