Trail along the butte – Sunflower Trail loop from The Civilian Conservation Corps at Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Trail along the butte – Sunflower Trail loop from The Civilian Conservation Corps at Palo Duro Canyon State Park
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Trail along the butte – Sunflower Trail loop from The Civilian Conservation Corps at Palo Duro Canyon State Park
03:16
40.6km
440m
Mountain biking
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
50 m
Palo Duro Canyon Overlook
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
4.87 km
Trail along the butte
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
9.02 km
Tough climb with switchbacks
Highlight • Climb
Tip by
18.1 km
Capitol Peak Trail, Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
30.7 km
Sunflower Trail
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
35.2 km
Kiowa Trail
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
40.6 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
27.3 km
6.96 km
5.84 km
588 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
25.1 km
6.96 km
5.84 km
2.14 km
634 m
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Elevation
Highest point (1,050 m)
Lowest point (850 m)
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Weather
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Today
Friday 26 June
34°C
21°C
36 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 18.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a substantial mountain biking adventure that blends scenic river views with the grandeur of Palo Duro Canyon, the Trail along the butte – Sunflower Trail loop from The Civilian Conservation Corps at Palo Duro Canyon State Park is a moderate route worth exploring. This 25.3-mile (40.6 km) ride features 1441 feet (439 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes about 3 hours and 15 minutes, making it a solid choice for intermediate riders seeking a rewarding half-day outing on Palo Duro Canyon State Park mountain biking trails.
What to expect on Trail along the butte – Sunflower Trail loop from The Civilian Conservation Corps at Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Expect a varied journey as the route meanders along the Prairie Dog Town Fork of the Red River, crossing several wooden bridges. You'll pass striking red sandstone walls layered with white gypsum, and find welcome shade under Texas cedar trees. While generally flowy, some sections might offer minor challenges, but the overall moderate difficulty makes it accessible for those comfortable with longer rides. The trail offers glimpses of both the eastern and western canyon rims, providing a sense of the canyon's scale and showcasing the Palo Duro Canyon State Park mountain biking terrain.
Planning your visit
Plan your visit carefully, especially regarding weather; the trail can become muddy after rain, impacting rideability. The route starts from The Civilian Conservation Corps area, which is a good base for accessing the park's trails. Always carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as shade can be intermittent. Checking the Palo Duro Canyon State Park best time to visit mountain biking conditions before you go is always a good idea.
- Distance: 25.3 miles (40.6 km)
- Elevation gain: 1441 feet (439 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 3 hours and 15 minutes
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