Palo Duro Canyon Trail Report: Closures, Reopenings, And Winter Splendor

When it comes to the trails at Palo Duro Canyon, it's been an interesting year. There have been a lot of closures for a handful of reasons. We've had rain and heat, and there was even an incident with an RV that interrupted business as usual down in the canyon. Fortunately, it looks like we may head into the new year with everything back to normal.

Trails Are Open Again In Palo Duro Canyon

Recently, news was shared that a majority of the trails at Palo Duro Canyon were going to be closed this month. The reason why they were going to be closed was for wildlife management. Controlled hunts have been taking place in the canyon.

Recently, an update to the closures was issued by Palo Duro Canyon State Park and it was good news for those of us who have been wanting to spend a little time on the trails. According to their park alert, all of the trails are back open in the canyon. There are three areas, however, that are still closed:

• Backcountry
• Equestrian Camping
• Youth Camp Area

Other than those three areas, the park is open and waiting for you. It couldn't come at a better time.

Palo Duro Canyon Is Wonderful This Time Of Year

While it might be chilly and cold this time of the year outside of the canyon, I've always found it to be pretty nice down on the trails. When I've gone to the canyon this time of year, I always seem to have a better time than in the summer months.

A tradition in my family that I love is the First Day Hike. State parks across the state have a First Day Hike, and they're a blast. On the first day of the year, you head out to the nearest state park (Palo Duro Canyon State Park for us) and you get the year started with a hike and the great outdoors. We usually go right at sunrise and haven't ever had a problem being too cold once we hit the trails. Dress appropriately, and it's a great way to kick off a new year.

Hopefully, there won't be any more closures as we get ready to head into 2025. It would be nice to start the new year with the park fully open and ready to be explored.