This past weekend I visited “The Grand Canyon of Texas,” known outside of the state as Palo Duro Canyon State Park. It is the second largest canyon in the U.S. and is home to an outdoor summer musical drama and several miles of hiking trails. The canyon has been the site of many Indian and Spanish skirmishes. However, of more interest to me, it was once home of the JA Ranch established by Charles Goodnight.  It is a great place to visit for a weekend camping trip, take a hike down the miles of trails, or just drive through the canyon and enjoy the musical drama “Texas.” Now I will let a few of my pictures do the talking.

The great terrain in the Palo Duro

Rest area on the 3 mile Lighthouse Trail
One of the many senic trails in the canyon
The notable Lighthouse rock formation
More great terrain in the canyon. Can't you just picture the days when the Longhorn cattle roamed these pastures?

Have you made a recent visit to a state park that was once home to cattle ranchers or the like? Share a little of your trip and the history of the destination. Don’t forget to share and view more great photos on the Facebook group “I am Agriculture Proud.”

Published by Ryan Goodman

Ryan Goodman works in grassroots advocacy as a communications consultant with beef cattle farmers and ranchers across the United States. He is a proud alumnus of Oklahoma State University, with studies focusing on cattle reproduction and nutrition. Ryan's experience in the beef industry range from family farms and ranches in several states to large feedlots and non-profit policy organizations. Ryan is an avid trail and ultrarunner, proudly showing how beef can be an important part of a healthy diet and active lifestyle. Find Ryan on social media as @BeefRunner.