If you’re craving fresh air, wide skies, and miles of open trails, Amarillo is your gateway to some of Texas’s best outdoor adventures. Just beyond the city limits lie rugged canyons, prairie paths, and quiet country roads made for hiking, biking, and reconnecting with nature. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a casual explorer, these outdoor road trips from Amarillo are the perfect escape.
This region of the Texas Panhandle is known for its stunning contrasts—red rock formations, endless grasslands, and remote serenity. It’s a paradise for trail seekers, offering terrain that ranges from family-friendly strolls to adrenaline-pumping rides. Lace up your boots, grab your bike, and let’s explore the top hiking and biking trails near Amarillo.
Overview of Outdoor Trails Near Amarillo
Amarillo might surprise you with how close it is to natural wonders. Within an hour’s drive—or less—you’ll find access to iconic canyons, nature preserves, and scenic loops that deliver unforgettable outdoor experiences. From the towering cliffs of Palo Duro Canyon to lesser-known grassland preserves and trail systems tucked into city parks, Amarillo is a hub for trail lovers.
The best part? Many of these destinations offer year-round accessibility, low entry costs, and opportunities to hike or bike at your own pace. Whether you’re looking to chase sunrises, enjoy a peaceful prairie ride, or test your legs on rugged canyon trails, the open road awaits.
Best Hiking and Biking Trails Near Amarillo
1. Lighthouse Trail – Palo Duro Canyon
This iconic trail is a must-do for hikers and mountain bikers alike. The 5.7-mile roundtrip path leads to the stunning Lighthouse Rock, offering incredible canyon views, rock formations, and wildflower patches in spring. It’s moderately challenging but manageable for most.
Address: 11450 Park Rd 5, Canyon, TX 79015
Hours: Daily, 7 AM – 9 PM
Approx Cost: $8 per person
Famous For: Most popular trail in the “Grand Canyon of Texas”
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Start early to beat the heat, especially in summer. Don’t forget water and sunscreen.
2. CCC Trail – Palo Duro Canyon
For serious hikers, the CCC Trail is a rewarding climb up the canyon wall. Steep and rugged, this trail offers panoramic views of the canyon from the rim. It’s less trafficked than Lighthouse Trail and ideal for solitude and reflection.
Address: Inside Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Hours: Daily, 7 AM – 9 PM
Approx Cost: Included with park entry
Famous For: High elevation views and challenging switchbacks
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Wear sturdy hiking shoes—this trail has loose rock and elevation gain.
3. Rock Garden Trail – Palo Duro Canyon
This 4.4-mile loop is popular with both hikers and mountain bikers. The route winds through boulder-strewn fields and colorful canyon landscapes. It’s one of the best multi-use trails in the park for photography and nature watching.
Address: Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Hours: Daily, 7 AM – 9 PM
Approx Cost: Included with entry
Famous For: Boulder fields, wildlife sightings, and stunning red rock views
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Visit in spring or fall for cooler temps and better trail conditions.
4. Wildcat Bluff Nature Center Trails
Just minutes from Amarillo, Wildcat Bluff offers 5+ miles of easy trails through native prairie and shortgrass ecosystems. Ideal for beginners, families, or anyone looking for a relaxing walk or light ride close to town.
Address: 2301 N Soncy Rd, Amarillo, TX 79124
Hours: Tue–Sat, 9 AM – 5 PM
Approx Cost: $4–$6
Famous For: Educational nature trails, wildlife, and prairie flowers
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Ask about seasonal guided walks or astronomy nights—they’re family-friendly and fun.
5. Buffalo Lake National Wildlife Refuge
A hidden gem 30 minutes southwest of Amarillo, Buffalo Lake NWR has trails for hiking, biking, and wildlife watching. The refuge protects grasslands and wetlands and offers a peaceful, lesser-known escape.
Address: 46 S FM 168, Umbarger, TX 79091
Hours: Sunrise to sunset
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Migrating birds, wildlife spotting, and peaceful prairie hikes
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring binoculars for birdwatching—especially during spring and fall migrations.
6. Amarillo Rock Island Rail Trail
This paved urban trail follows an old rail line for 4 miles through Amarillo. It’s perfect for casual bikers, walkers, or families with strollers. Shaded stretches and mural-covered underpasses make it surprisingly scenic for a city trail.
Address: Trailhead at 7th & Crockett St, Amarillo, TX 79101
Hours: Open 24/7
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Easy, paved trail with city views and Route 66 access
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Combine your ride with a stop in the Route 66 Historic District for coffee or a mural photo.
7. McBride Canyon Trails – Lake Meredith
Located northeast of Amarillo, McBride Canyon offers short, scenic hiking trails near Lake Meredith. It’s quiet, beautiful, and perfect for a half-day nature escape. While bikes aren’t allowed on all trails, hiking options are peaceful and wildlife-rich.
Address: Lake Meredith National Recreation Area
Hours: Daily, sunrise to sunset
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Red cliffs, solitude, and proximity to the lake
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring water and bug spray—there’s little infrastructure but lots of natural beauty.
Food Stops for Outdoor Travelers
1. Feldman’s Wrong Way Diner
Fuel up post-hike with burgers, fries, and fun train-themed decor. Located in Canyon, just outside Palo Duro.
Address: 2100 N 2nd Ave, Canyon, TX 79015
Hours: Mon–Sat, 11 AM – 9 PM
Approx Cost: $10–$20
Famous For: Quirky ambiance and hearty Texas food
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Ask for outdoor seating if you want to stay in the fresh air.
2. Palace Coffee Company
Grab cold brew or pastries before hitting the trail. This cozy coffee spot is a favorite for early morning road trippers.
Address: 420 15th St, Canyon, TX 79015
Hours: Mon–Sat, 7 AM – 8 PM
Approx Cost: $5–$10
Famous For: Local roast coffee and great vibes
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Order to-go and sip your coffee at a canyon overlook.
3. The Big Texan Brewery
If you’re celebrating a day of trailblazing, stop by this Route 66 classic for burgers, craft beer, and a true Texas atmosphere.
Address: 7701 I-40 E, Amarillo, TX 79118
Hours: Daily, 11 AM – 10 PM
Approx Cost: $15–$30
Famous For: Craft beer and 72oz steak challenge
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Grab a beer flight and toast to your trail miles.
Packing Tips for Hiking & Biking Road Trips
- Trail map or downloaded GPS routes
- Water bottle or hydration pack
- High-protein snacks or trail mix
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and lip balm
- First aid kit for blisters or scrapes
- Portable charger or battery pack
- Bike helmet and gloves (if cycling)
- Trekking poles (optional for steep hikes)
- Lightweight backpack with compartments
- Insect repellent and travel wipes
Local Tips and Seasonal Advice
Spring and fall are best for hiking and biking—cooler temps and wildflowers.
Summer can be hot—start early and carry extra water.
Watch for wildlife including deer, foxes, rabbits, and hawks.
Check weather reports—storms can roll in fast across the plains.
Trail conditions vary—ask park rangers about closures or washouts.
Camping is available at Palo Duro Canyon and Lake Meredith if you want to stay overnight.
Conclusion
When you step outside Amarillo and hit the trails, you step into a world that’s vast, peaceful, and soul-refreshing. Whether you’re carving switchbacks in Palo Duro or strolling through tall prairie grass at Wildcat Bluff, the outdoor road trips around Amarillo deliver the kind of freedom that only comes from fresh air and unpaved paths.
So fill up the tank, pack your trail gear, and escape the ordinary. These scenic hiking and biking adventures near Amarillo prove that some of the best journeys begin just a few miles down the road.
