Panhandle

Dramatic red rock canyons in the Texas Panhandle that are home to the official state bison herd. Kids are thrilled to see real bison roaming free along the park roads and trails. The 64-mile Trailway is one of the longest rail-trails in Texas and passes through a railroad tunnel that is now a Mexican free-tailed bat colony. Watching hundreds of thousands of bats emerge at sunset from the tunnel is one of the most spectacular wildlife experiences in the state.

The second-largest canyon in the United States after the Grand Canyon and one of the most visually stunning landscapes in all of Texas. The Lighthouse Trail is the signature hike leading to an iconic 310-foot rock spire that makes for an incredible family photo. The drive down into the canyon itself is thrilling for kids as the walls rise hundreds of feet on either side. Summer brings the outdoor musical drama TEXAS performed in the canyon amphitheater.