The best cycling routes in Randall County

Randall County offers a selection of touring cycling routes, with 5 routes currently available on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 3 easy and 2 moderate options.

Touring cycling in Randall County primarily features the dramatic landscapes of Palo Duro Canyon, often referred to as the 'Grand Canyon of Texas'. You'll find paved roads winding through the canyon, offering stunning views and some challenging climbs. Outside the canyon, the broader Texas Panhandle region provides expansive plains with unique scenic beauty. While this guide focuses on touring, the region also has multi-use trails and emerging gravel cycling opportunities on rural byways.

Yes, several touring cycling routes in Randall County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Lighthouse Peak Trailhead – Capitol Peak View loop from Wolfberry Campground, which is a moderate 33 km ride, and the easier Sunflower Trail – Lighthouse Peak Trailhead loop from Corral, covering 19 km.

Absolutely. Randall County has several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. For instance, the Sunflower Trail – Lighthouse Peak Trailhead loop from Corral is an easy 19 km route, and the Lighthouse Peak Trailhead – Mesquite Campground loop from Wolfberry Campground is an even shorter, easy 8.7 km option.

The touring cycling routes in Randall County offer access to spectacular natural landmarks, primarily within Palo Duro Canyon State Park. You can expect to see the iconic Lighthouse formation, explore the vast Palo Duro Canyon State Park itself, and enjoy panoramic views from spots like Capitol Peak View. Many routes traverse areas with these natural wonders.

The best time for touring cycling in Randall County is typically during the spring and fall months. These seasons offer more moderate temperatures, making for a more comfortable ride through the canyon and across the plains. Summers can be very hot, and winters can bring cold temperatures, though cycling is possible year-round with appropriate preparation.

Yes, parking is generally available at the main access points and campgrounds within Palo Duro Canyon State Park, which serve as starting points for many touring cycling routes. For routes outside the park, such as those near Amarillo, designated parking areas are also typically provided.

Yes, as Palo Duro Canyon is a State Park, a park entrance fee is required. You can find more information about fees and any specific rules for cyclists by visiting the official Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website: tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/palo-duro-canyon. Always check for current regulations before your visit.

Within Palo Duro Canyon State Park, you'll find facilities like the Trading Post for refreshments and snacks. The park also offers various camping options, including sites with water and electricity, primitive tent sites, and cabins, which can support multi-day cycling tours. For more extensive dining and accommodation options, the nearby city of Amarillo provides a wider range of choices.

While this guide focuses on touring bicycles, Randall County and the broader Texas Panhandle region are gaining recognition for gravel bikepacking. The Great Plains Gravel Route includes a segment in the Texas Panhandle, utilizing rural byways with a mix of smooth gravel and chunky sections. If you have a gravel bike, you can explore these unpaved roads and dirt routes, such as the Caprock HS Loop in Amarillo.

For a moderate challenge, consider the Lighthouse Peak Trailhead – Capitol Peak View loop from Wolfberry Campground, which covers 33 km with over 200 meters of elevation gain. Within Palo Duro Canyon State Park, the paved roads themselves can offer challenging sections, including a notable 1.3-mile climb with an average gradient of 7.9% and an elevation gain of 526 feet, appealing to cyclists looking for a workout amidst incredible scenery.