Palo Duro Canyon is easily one of the most frequented state parks in Texas. Summer is by far the busiest season, which leads most people to the conclusion it’s the best time to visit. We would argue the opposite because Palo Duro Canyon in December is much less crowded and even more beautiful in so many wonderful ways.

Palo Duro Canyon is located southeast of the city of Amarillo and northeast of the city of Lubbock.
Flickr/tnkntx
One of the best tips for visiting the park is to plan the perfect time to go -- and you might consider visiting during the off-season.
Facebook/Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Some people might think visitors aren't allowed during winter, but the canyon actually remains open year-round, save for extreme adverse weather events, of course. It's much less crowded than during peak summer months (you can enjoy "glamping" here as well!), so this time of year is a perfect opportunity for those who prefer solitude to enjoy the scenery.
Although weather conditions are fluid, you can safely expect at least a light dusting of snow through late February.
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The average low temperature in winter in this part of the state is about 20 degrees, so make sure to bundle up!

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Snapshots like this are so spectacular because they showcase inherent juxtapositions in the snow-covered landscape.
Flickr/quakeup
Red rocks and cacti, two things typically associated with a bone-dry desert, are blanketed in a thick, eye-catching world of winter white.
Cabins are closed through the end of February, so day hiking will have to suffice until then.
Flickr/quakeup
The hiking trails here start at just half a mile in length, so rest assured there are plenty of options that won't leave you stranded in the dark.
Look at this spectacular real-life winter wonderland with the snowy canyon extending as far as the eye can see.
Facebook/Palo Duro Canyon State Park
The stillness of Palo Duro Canyon in December is practically tangible, and it's so quiet you can hear someone coming from a mile away.
Isn't this view just breathtaking?
Facebook/Palo Duro Canyon State Park
It's really a shame that most Texans only visit during the warmer months.

Visit the canyon’s website or Facebook page to learn more.

Have you ever been to Palo Duro Canyon during winter? If so, did you enjoy it more than a summertime visit? Let us know your thoughts.

Looking for other wonderful canyons dotted throughout the United States? Check out this list of the 16 most magnificent canyons that delight and inspire!

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Lysa Allman-Baldwin

Winter Fun in Texas | December 02, 2022

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Hiking is a very popular activity all over the country and there are numerous amazing places to go hiking in Texas during the winter. A few to get your heart-pumping recreation started are the following:

 

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Texans love to decorate for the holidays, and you can find loads of where you can enjoy drive-thru holiday light displays while staying bundled up and warm in your vehicle. A few of the most popular displays include:

 

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Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Canyon, TX 79015, USA