All three routes begin in Amarillo, which has the region’s main airport and most car-hire desks. Driving times are rough and do not include stops.
Canyon and Route 66 classic
The essentials: Amarillo, Palo Duro and a day on the Mother Road.
Best for a long weekend or a first visit
- Day 1
Amarillo
Arrive, see Cadillac Ranch at sunset and eat on Sixth Street.
- Day 2
Palo Duro Canyon
Hike the Lighthouse Trail at dawn, then visit the museum in Canyon.
- Day 3
Route 66 west
Drive to Vega and Adrian for pie at the midpoint, then back to Amarillo.
- Day 4
Route 66 east
See Groom, McLean and Shamrock, returning by I-40 or continuing to Oklahoma.
Tip: book a Palo Duro day pass online before you travel, especially on weekends.
Canyons and bison loop
Adds wild Caprock Canyons and Lubbock’s music and museums.
Best for hikers and wildlife fans
- Day 1–2
Amarillo
The city, Sixth Street and a half-day on Route 66.
- Day 3
Palo Duro Canyon
A full day in the park, and a night in Canyon or at a campsite.
- Day 4
Caprock Canyons
Drive about 1 h 45 min to Caprock. Evening among the bison.
- Day 5–6
Lubbock
Continue to Lubbock for Buddy Holly, ranch heritage and a winery.
- Day 7
Back to Amarillo
Take I-27 north (about 1 h 50 min) or fly out of Lubbock.
Tip: lodging near Caprock is scarce, so reserve a campsite or plan a long day from Canyon.
The grand Panhandle circuit
Everything: canyons, Route 66, the quarries, Pampa and the XIT country.
Best for slow road-trippers
- Day 1–2
Amarillo
Settle in and explore the city.
- Day 3–4
Palo Duro Canyon
Two days of hiking, the museum and, in summer, the TEXAS show.
- Day 5
Caprock Canyons
Bison and hiking at Caprock.
- Day 6
Lubbock
A night in Lubbock.
- Day 7
To Shamrock
A long drive north-east to the U-Drop Inn on Route 66.
- Day 8
Pampa and Lake Meredith
- Day 9
Dalhart
Ranch history and grassland in XIT country.
- Day 10
Adrian and Amarillo
Return via Vega and Adrian, finishing at Cadillac Ranch.
Tip: reserve the Alibates ranger tour first, then fit the other days around it.
Before you go
Check the seasons, car hire and driving, and where to stay.
