A trail of good reviews for this hike in Canyon park
Sometimes, it’s difficult to find something to do that doesn’t have a chorus of online reviews saying why you shouldn’t, but a Texas hiking trail seems to have beaten the odds.
The Lighthouse Trail in Canyon is one of the top-rated hikes in the U.S. on Google Maps, according to a Google newsletter. With an overall 4.9 rating and more than 290 reviews, the trail received glowing feedback from hikers, who offered helpful tips for those who take it on in the future.
The trail leads to Palo Duro Canyon State Park’s most well known feature, the Lighthouse rock formation, and it’s the most popular hike at the park. It’s rated at a moderate difficulty level, according to a trails map document. To go to the end and return, it’s a hike of more than 5 miles.
“Do take plenty of water, as most heat-related injuries and deaths for people and pets occur on this trail,” the document warns.
One reviewer who gave the trail five stars described it as having beginner and intermediate parts, advised bringing sufficient water as well as a protein snack, and cautioned readers about the summer heat and how people could become quickly dehydrated.
“The scenery is amazing, but take into account the abilities of all in your group,” the reviewer wrote.
Another reviewer described it as a “must see,” and others enjoyed the views.
“Nice little dirt trail with an epic finale,” one reviewer wrote. “Very windy near the end as you near the lighthouse so be prepared for that! Went on a Saturday and it was not too crowded.”
Some people who provided feedback noted it was a relatively easy trail but can be challenging toward the end. And several advised bringing good hiking footwear.
A trail-specific guide is available from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.