The White Rock Overlook

If you're looking for one of the most breathtaking views in the entire canyon without a long hike, the White Rock Overlook is hard to beat. Located near the visitor center, before you descend into the canyon, this overlook provides sweeping panoramic views of the canyon and stunning layers of red, orange, and golden rock formations. This location is not labeled or named, it's simply a pull off spot from the main road that takes you into the park. Although it technically doesn't require, what I would consider, a hike, there are a few steep portions you will have to descend. It is not ideal for elderly or individuals with mobility challenges. Also, there is a pretty significant drop off along the edges facing into the canyon. Therefore, it is also not ideal for children who may have a tendency to run off.

This location is especially beautiful during sunrise and sunset when the canyon glows with warm light. It's perfect for couples wanting dramatic scenery while still having easy access. Typically, I include this location with most of my shoots as our final location.

Best for: Engagement sessions, elopements, anniversaries, and small family photos.

The Big Cave

The Big Cave is one of Palo Duro's hidden gems. Unlike some of the more strenuous locations, it's relatively accessible while still offering a completely unique backdrop. The natural cave opening frames the canyon beautifully and provides shade, texture, and depth that make photographs stand out. Many photographers consider it one of the most versatile locations in the park. Now, to actually trek the cave is a different story. You have the option of relying on the space out front of the cave, or to hike up into the mouth of the cave. However, this portion is not ideal for elderly or mobility challenged individuals.

One other downside to this location is its popularity. If you're wanting more privacy, this is not the best spot.

This spot works wonderfully year-round and offers a different look than the wide-open overlooks most people associate with Palo Duro.

To find this location, you will follow the main road down into the canyon, turning at the fork right after passing the lighthouse trail parking lot. After about a ten minutes drive, you will see pull-off parking for the cave, there is no parking lot.

Best for: Couples, families (small and extended), maternity sessions, and seniors.

Mars Landing

No, "Mars Landing" is not the technical adopted name of this spot. Actually, I don't think it even has a name. Although, it does show up as a scenic area on the PDC map, but that's it. I've given it this name, because I've had several clients comment on the vibrant red dirt and rock and compare it to being on Mars. To find it, you'll come across a noticeable pull-off lot after you've dropped down into the canyon and passed the old horse stables. There is a trail that journeys far back into the west side of the canyon. But for photos-sake, I stay towards the front. All you do is park in the lot, step down about 6 feet of steepish landscape and then you're far enough into the area that the photos will turn out stunning.

Typically, this location is not too busy, but if 24-hours in the park or any other race, this parking lot will be closed off. So keep that in mind if you're going to shoot here.

Best for: Couples, elopement/vow readings, families (small and extended), maternity sessions, and seniors.

The Road

There are plenty of spots along the road that have space enough for a couple of cars to pull-off and park. And I don't know what exactly it is about the road photos, but they are some of my favorites! Especially with couples, it's a lot of fun to have them run along the center and play around. But keep a close eye on traffic and never get out on the road in a curved portion. You need to have a large vantage point to ensure everyone's safety. And also, I never stay in these spots for too long.

One of the better road spots is that of the big hill that you have to take to get into the canyon and get back out. I love it, because angled just right, you can capture a good chunk of the canyon wall and colors.

Best for: Couples and seniors.

The Trails

If it's West Texas foliage your wanting, any of the trails are perfect. Especially during the fall. It may not be the northeast changing of the leaves, but it's our panhandle version--beautiful in and of itself. There are even a few trails that have quaint wooden bridges. I love these for posing families.

Generally, you won't have to worry about any difficult hiking with the trails. And to get to the picturesque spots won't take you any longer than about 10 minutes of walking time.

Going on a slight excursion by walking one of the trails for your session will diversify your gallery, incorporating Palo Duro Canyon's underestimated nature scene. Of course most client's want the canyon walls, understandably so, but don't discount the other stunning locations within the park.

Best for: Couples, family (small & extended), maternity and seniors.

The Lighthouse Trail

The Lighthouse is arguably the most recognizable landmark in Palo Duro Canyon. This famous rock formation sits at the end of one of the park's most popular hiking trails and offers some of the most iconic views in Texas. The trail itself winds through colorful canyon walls before revealing the towering rock formation that gives the trail its name.

The hike requires a more commitment and planning than any other portion of the canyon, but the payoff is incredible. Along the way, you'll find beautiful canyon scenery, unique rock formations, and countless opportunities for photos before even reaching the Lighthouse itself. Plan for about 4 hours total, if you are wanting to reach the lighthouse formation. It's about 6 miles round-trip. Most of the trek is simple. The only challenging part is as you reach the lighthouse itself. At that point, the hike does turn into scaling rocks and trekking through narrow and steep paths. Hiking shoes are ideal and necessary to avoid injuries.

For adventurous couples, this location creates images that feel truly epic.

Plan on starting at dark to reach the lighthouse at sunrise, or begin your hike with plenty of time to reach the lighthouse before sunset. You will need to bring flashlights or headlamps.

Best for: Adventure sessions, engagements, and elopements.