A great way to see the more than 18,000 acres of Palo Duro Canyon State Park. Extensive pilot expereince recommended. Prior arrangements must be made by calling park headquarters at 806-488-2227. www.tpwd.state.tx.us/park/paloduro/.

The signature formation within Palo Duro Canyon State Park, the Lighthouse is over 100 feet tall. It is accessible by trail only. Anticipate about a 4 hour round-trip hike from The Lighthouse Trail parking lot near water crossing # 2. Pack plenty of water as there is none on the trail. During the spring, keep an eye out for thundersatorms that can cause flooding and block water crossings. But the hike is more than reward in itself. 806-488-2227. www.tpwd.state.tx.us/park/paloduro/.

It happens rarely, but when it does it is quite unusual and spectacular. This photo was taken in the winter of 2001 from the Visitor Center at Palo Duro Canyon State Park as a river of clouds filled the 800-foot deep canyon. The ecosystem within the state park is fascinating. If you have questions or want to learn about public programs at the park, call the park interpreter at 806-488-2227. www.tpwd.state.tx.us/park/paloduro/.

The front gate to Palo Duro Canyon State Park usually opens at 8 a.m.. During the winter, that places sunrise close to the gate opening, so you can catch this beautiful scene from the Overlook next to the Visitor Center. 806-488-2227. www.tpwd.state.tx.us/park/paloduro/.

More than getting your kicks, enjoy over one mile of antiques and restaurants, clubs and shopping along a stretch of the original Route 66. Amarillo is the largest Texas city on the state’s 170+ mile length of the Mother Road. Located along 6th Avenue between Georgia and Western Sts. No central phone number. For information on the Texas stretch of Route 66, from Shamrock to Glenrio, contact Becky Ransom with the Old Route 66 Association of Texas at the Big Texan Steak Ranch. 806-372-6000.