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Randall County

Capitol Peak View

Highlight • Viewpoint

Capitol Peak View

Hiking

5.0

(7)

This Highlight is in a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Palo Duro Canyon State Park

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  • Location: Randall County, Texas, United States

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    October 6, 2023

    Hiking

    This is a beautiful view, regardless if you're a geology enthusiast or not. The resistant sandstone beds of the Quartermaster and Tecovas formations are prominently exposed, while the overlying Trujillo and Ogallala formations have eroded away. This erosion creates dramatic geological features like the hoodoos, which are visible here. Massive Trujillo sandstone also caps the mesa to the north called Timber Mesa, home to the iconic formation "Santana's Face" by the Trading Post.
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    Nearby routes

    Best routes near Capitol Peak View

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    26

    hikers

    #1.

    Lighthouse Trail

    5.31km

    01:26

    100m

    10m

    Embark on an easy hike along the Lighthouse Trail, a 3.3-mile (5.3 km) route that guides you through the rugged beauty of Palo Duro Canyon. You will gain 328 feet (100 metres) in elevation, a journey that typically takes around 1 hour and 26 minutes to complete. As you hike, you will encounter colorful rock formations, including striking red claystone, white gypsum, and yellow mudstone, all leading to the iconic 300-foot-tall stone pillar known as The Lighthouse. The views of Capitol Peak and Fortress Cliffs along the way add to the scenic experience.

    When planning your visit, be aware that the trail is mostly packed dirt and rock, but you might find loose sandy paths in some sections. Due to the open exposure to the elements, it is highly recommended that you carry plenty of water and wear a shade hat to protect yourself from the sun. The route is also shared with mountain bikers and horses, so remember to be mindful of other users you might encounter on your adventure.

    The Lighthouse Trail is a highlight within Palo Duro Canyon State Park, a place often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of Texas" for its impressive scale and geological features. The Lighthouse itself is not just a natural wonder; it is a designated National Natural Landmark, making it a significant landmark in the region. This hike offers a chance to experience the unique geology and vast landscapes that define this remarkable canyon.

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    Easy
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    4.8

    (19)

    294

    hikers

    9.37km

    02:30

    100m

    100m

    Hike the 5.8-mile Lighthouse Trail in Palo Duro Canyon State Park, a moderate route to the iconic 300-foot Lighthouse formation.

    Moderate
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    Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

    Moderate

    Details

    Informations

    Elevation 890 m

    Weather

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    Today

    Tuesday 2 June

    32°C

    18°C

    58 %

    Additional weather tips

    Max wind speed: 30.0 km/h

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    Location: Randall County, Texas, United States

    Other Popular Places to Check Out

    Givens, Spicer, Lowry, Paseo del Rio Trailheads

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