With just one short hike under our belts for this trip, we decided to tackle a big one here in Palo Duro Canyon — the Lighthouse. This is a beloved rock formation that is featured on their maps and is used to symbolize the park. The hike is a moderate one until the end when you can climb up to the Lighthouse rock formation. That part of the hike is difficult. The signs all warn about having enough water, and we are grateful to be here in December instead of the heat of summer.

This was a long hike at over six miles, so we took it easy for the rest of the day.