Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Texas

You know the largest canyon in the nation, Grand Canyon, but do you know the second largest? You will now! At roughly 70 miles with an average width of 6 miles, and depth of up to 1000 ft., Palo Duro Canyon is often referred to as the ‘other’ Grand Canyon. Beat the crowds and heat by visiting in the winter months ($5 entry fee year-round) and explore the canyon by foot, mountain bike, horse ($35 for a tour) or car on 30+ miles of trails. For the more adventurous at heart, you can take the “big zip” tour across the canyon or go rappelling into the abyss--this is surely a great gift for your friend who is afraid of heights! Activities of the artistic variety include an annual photography contest in early January, and TEXAS, an outdoor musical drama performed throughout the summer. Photographers, adventurers, and families alike will lose their ish over this larger-than-life canyon. If you want to go big when you’re in Texas, you have to visit Palo Duro Canyon State Park!