Lighthouse Peak Trailhead – Sunflower Trail loop from Wolfberry Campground
Lighthouse Peak Trailhead – Sunflower Trail loop from Wolfberry Campground
4.9
(3377)
13,729
riders
Lighthouse Peak Trailhead – Sunflower Trail loop from Wolfberry Campground
01:00
13.4km
70m
Mountain biking
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: May 26, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
6.83 km
Capitol Peak Trail, Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
6.88 km
Lighthouse Peak Trailhead
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
9.06 km
Sunflower Trail
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
11.9 km
Palo Duro Canyon Battle Site
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
12.6 km
Juniper/Riverside Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
13.4 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
9.01 km
3.39 km
824 m
157 m
Surfaces
9.01 km
3.39 km
824 m
157 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Friday 26 June
34°C
21°C
37 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 16.0 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 mountain biking route that packs a lot of Palo Duro Canyon's iconic scenery into a manageable ride, the Lighthouse Peak Trailhead – Sunflower Trail loop from Wolfberry Campground is an excellent choice. This easy 8.3-mile (13.4 km) mountain biking route, with just 246 feet (75 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 59 minutes, making it perfect for a rewarding morning spin or a family-friendly adventure.
What to expect on Lighthouse Peak Trailhead – Sunflower Trail loop from Wolfberry Campground
This loop offers a fantastic contrast, starting with the easy, well-maintained Sunflower Trail that meanders alongside the Prairie Dog Town Fork of the Red River, providing shade and glimpses of Fortress Cliff. As you transition to the Lighthouse Trail, the terrain shifts to more moderately challenging packed dirt and rock, with some loose sandy paths and dry creek crossings. You'll be treated to breathtaking views of the canyon's colorful rock formations, including Capitol Peak, before reaching the iconic 300-foot-tall Lighthouse formation itself. While the Lighthouse Trail has some steep sections, alternative routes are often available, making this a diverse ride suitable for those looking for both relaxed riverside cruising and a bit more technical challenge.
Planning your visit
Starting directly from Wolfberry Campground means you're immediately immersed in the canyon's unique environment. Both the Lighthouse and Sunflower trails are multi-use, so be prepared to share the path with hikers and horses and practice proper trail etiquette. Remember to carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as much of the Lighthouse Trail is exposed. While bikes cannot go up the very steep section to the Lighthouse itself, a bike rack is available at the end of the trail if you wish to make the final climb on foot.
Trail details
- Distance: 8.3 miles (13.4 km)
- Elevation gain: 246 feet (75 metres)
- Difficulty: easy
- Estimated time: 59 minutes
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