Palo Duro Canyon, a majestic landscape that holds a special place in the heart of the Texas Panhandle and for readers of Amarillo Pioneer, is a destination I’ve often championed. Like journalist George Wilkins Kendall in 1841, who, upon reaching the canyon with the Texan Santa Fe expedition, eloquently described its “wild grandeur” surpassing even Niagara and evoking the ruins of ancient civilizations, I too am captivated by this natural wonder. Kendall’s words, “Niagara has been considered one of her wildest freaks; but Niagara sinks into insignificance when compared with the wild grandeur of this awful chasm,” still resonate today, highlighting the canyon’s breathtaking impact.
However, as much as I encourage exploration of Palo Duro Canyon through platforms like Amarillo Pioneer, this week brings a slightly different message. Instead of urging you to immediately discover its trails, I’m advocating for patience. For those planning a visit and considering strenuous hikes, especially during the scorching summer months, I strongly advise waiting for cooler weather. And if you absolutely must venture into the canyon now, please heed extra precautions to ensure your safety and well-being.
The upcoming forecast for Amarillo predicts highs nearing or exceeding 100 degrees. Within the canyon’s depths, these temperatures amplify significantly. The canyon’s rock formations act as heat reservoirs, intensely heating both the air and ground. A practical estimation rule is to add approximately 10 degrees to Amarillo’s high to gauge the air temperature at the canyon floor. Alarmingly, ground temperatures can soar to around 200 degrees. This extreme ground heat leads to a crucial warning: PLEASE DO NOT HIKE WITH YOUR DOGS during these hot periods. Their paws are incredibly vulnerable to these surface temperatures, and the heat poses a severe risk of heatstroke for them.
Hydration is paramount for any hike, but in the canyon’s summer heat, it becomes even more critical. Experiencing heat exhaustion firsthand taught me a harsh lesson: even copious amounts of water are ineffective if nausea prevents you from keeping fluids down. Dehydration can rapidly escalate into a dangerous situation in such conditions.
Furthermore, the cardinal rule of hiking – knowing your limits – cannot be overstated. It’s surprisingly easy to overestimate one’s physical capabilities, especially when the allure of the canyon’s beauty beckons. The challenging trails can quickly become treacherous under the relentless summer sun, pushing hikers beyond their endurance levels.
While the desire to escape and explore is understandable, especially in times like 2020 and beyond, Palo Duro Canyon is not disappearing anytime soon. Barring unforeseen geological events, this “awful chasm,” as Kendall aptly named it, will patiently await your visit in the more temperate months of fall. Personally, I, and Amarillo Pioneer, eagerly anticipate the return to hiking and sharing the canyon’s wonders again when the weather is more forgiving. Let’s prioritize safety and enjoy Palo Duro Canyon responsibly, ensuring its beauty can be appreciated for years to come.
