Postcards from Palo Duro Canyon
Turtleneck: Calvin Klein // Chunky Knit Cardigan: Target (tons of options and colors here) // Joggers: Target // Shoes: Merrill // Sunnies: Ray-Ban // Backpack: Amazon (this is a really good option) // Necklace: Park Lane Jewelry
If you have not been to Palo Duro Canyon State Park, you are missing out on one of the most beautiful places in Texas. It’s an oasis in the middle of the Texas Panhandle filled with winding roads, trails and so much to see. While I was staying in Amarillo, I took an entire afternoon to explore what is the second-largest canyon in the US. It’s huge! There are so many trails to take you could spend days hiking. A lot of marathons take place here because it’s great terrain to train and execute cross country running. Many of the trails and most of the park is dog-friendly. The day we went we took the Lighthouse Trail which is a round trip of 5.5 miles. It’s in the middle of the blistering sun so regardless of whether you burn or not take sunscreen and stay hydrated. Also, make sure your pets are hydrated, too.
On this trip, I layered a cream-colored turtleneck under a chunky knit color block sweater. Being able to layer and remove pieces as needed is always a key when hiking. I also sported a pair of sweater joggers and brought both my hiking shoes and a pair of sneakers. A must-have on a hiking trip is a good backpack and a pair of sunglasses. My recommendation is to get a pair that’s polarized to keep the glare down. For your backpack, lots of pockets help you stay organized and padding on the straps is a must-have. I always carry a few meal bars and a backup battery for my cell phone. If you can grab or print a paper map that’s a good idea. Most state and national parks have minimal cell phone services.
A few other things to note about the area. There is very little shade along the Lighthouse Trail. I like this one because it doesn’t burn or itch my face and keeps it from breaking out. It’s a full five miles (actually 5.5) so you will be pretty tired by the end of it. As soon as I’m done with a trail I switch out my shoes immediately. You’ll thank me later for this. Same with socks if needed. I hydrate like crazy and if I have caffeine available I drink a little. Be really gentle on your body the rest of the day and stretching will help ease muscle aches. Stretch after the trail, and before bedtime! I also like to wind down later than night and sleep in this overnight hydrating mask. It will help restore your skin from high winds and the dry climate of the Texas Panhandle. I’d love to hear about your experiences with Palo Duro Canyon. If you’ve been there, drop a comment! I’d love to hear which trails you took!
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