Lighthouse Peak Trailhead – Palo Duro Canyon State Park loop from The Battle of Palo Duro Canyon
Lighthouse Peak Trailhead – Palo Duro Canyon State Park loop from The Battle of Palo Duro Canyon
4.8
(1427)
16,687
riders
Lighthouse Peak Trailhead – Palo Duro Canyon State Park loop from The Battle of Palo Duro Canyon
01:37
21.6km
140m
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
2.73 km
Sunflower Trail
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
4.96 km
Capitol Peak Trail, Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
5.02 km
Lighthouse Peak Trailhead
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
9.09 km
Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Highlight (Segment) • Canyon
It is the second largest canyon in the United States. It is about 193 …
Translated by Google •
Tip by
12.2 km
Capitol Peak View
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
16.0 km
Lighthouse Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Translated by Google •
Tip by
19.7 km
Juniper/Riverside Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
21.6 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
14.6 km
3.24 km
3.12 km
569 m
Surfaces
14.0 km
3.24 km
3.12 km
656 m
569 m
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Elevation
Highest point (900 m)
Lowest point (840 m)
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Friday 26 June
33°C
20°C
38 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 19.0 km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for an accessible yet rewarding mountain biking experience in the "Grand Canyon of Texas," the Lighthouse Peak Trailhead – Palo Duro Canyon State Park loop delivers. This easy 13.4-mile (21.6 km) route, with a modest 443 feet (135 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 1 hour and 37 minutes, making it perfect for those new to the park's trails or looking for a quicker ride with big views.
What to expect on Lighthouse Peak Trailhead – Palo Duro Canyon State Park loop from The Battle of Palo Duro Canyon
This loop cleverly combines sections of the popular Lighthouse Trail with the mountain-bike exclusive Capitol Peak Mountain Bike Trail, offering a diverse ride. You'll navigate red dirt paths, some sandy and loose, with a mix of flat stretches, inclines, and descents. The scenery is truly spectacular, with vibrant flora like prickly pear cactus and juniper, and towering sandstone buttes. Keep an eye out for Capitol Peak and Fortress Cliffs as you make your way towards the iconic Lighthouse rock formation. While rated easy overall, some sections on Capitol Peak offer varied terrain, including optional jumps and drops, making it engaging for riders of different skill levels.
Planning your visit
Palo Duro Canyon State Park is a popular destination, so arriving early is always a good idea, especially on weekends. Remember to bring plenty of water, particularly during warmer months, as heat-related incidents are common on the Lighthouse Trail. Check the park's official website for current hours, entrance fees, and any permit requirements before your visit. The park is open year-round, but spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures for riding.
Trail details
- Distance: 13.4 miles (21.6 km)
- Elevation gain: 443 feet (135 metres)
- Difficulty: easy
- Estimated time: 1 hours and 37 minutes
Comments
Want to know more?
Sign up for a free komoot account to join the conversation.
Sign up for free