Palo Duro Canyon | Photo by Noah Dawson
Most of Palo Duro Canyon State Park is currently closed for hunting and will remain closed until December 8th at 7:30 am. Until then, the only trails at the park open to the public will be the CCC, Triassic, Goodnight Peak Scenic Loop, and Pioneer Nature Trails. The Rim Cabins, Visitor Center, scenic overlook, Mack Dick Pavilion, Trading Post, Glamping, Sagebrush Camp Loop, and Old West Stables will also remain open.
Areas beyond the Old West Stables will reopen on December 8th, though the backcountry and backcountry buffer area will remain closed until December 15th at 10:00 pm. This area includes the equestrian area, sponsored youth group area, and backcountry hiking and camping, as well as backcountry trails.
The timing of the hunts this year is different than previous years, when hunts were typically scheduled for the second half of December.
Hunters are chosen by drawing, and information about entering for next year’s hunt can be found at this link.