Road Tripping from Abilene, Texas to Limon, Colorado: The Ultimate Road Trip Experience
Road trips are a time-honored tradition—a rite of passage, if you will, for any true adventurer. And if you're looking to explore some of the most beautiful landscapes in the United States, look no further than a road trip from Abilene, Texas to Limon, Colorado. This journey begins in Texas but takes you through some of the most scenic highways and byways in eastern Colorado. On this trip, you'll discover hidden gems, stunning natural wonders, and a host of unforgettable experiences. Here is our guide to the top places to see when driving from Abilene, Texas to Limon, Colorado.
Stunning Stops to Include in Your Abilene to Limon Road Trip
- Palo Duro Canyon State Park – Canyon, Texas
Located just south of Amarillo in the Texas Panhandle, Palo Duro Canyon is the second-largest canyon in the United States, and it's absolutely enchanting. With its multicolored layers of rock and steep cliffs that tower over 800 feet tall, the canyon is a natural wonder that will leave you breathless. We recommend you hike the Lighthouse Trail for inspiring views. The Palo Duro Canyon has a fascinating history, including being the site of battles between the Comanche and U.S. Army soldiers in the mid-19th century.
- Caprock Canyons State Park – Quitaque, Texas
After a breathtaking stop in Palo Duro Canyon, take the scenic route through N TX State Highway 170 to reach the next stop at Caprock Canyons State Park, an hour drive from Canyon. In this stunning Red River Basin, you'll witness canyons of rock formations and striking colors made from sandstone, shale, and siltstones that speak of the park's geological significance. Not to be missed at Caprock Canyons is the official Texas state bison herd, the Caprock Canyons state herd, where over 100 bison roam with the wide-open spaces. Don't forget to ride the Caprock Canyons Trailway that spans about 64 miles leading you through the Canyon.
- Monument Rocks – Oakley, Kansas
A few hours drive from Canyons, Kansas, is the unique natural treasure Monument Rocks. The magnificent Monument Rocks, also known as “the Chalk Pyramids” are natural wonderland formations of chalk that were created millions of years ago during the Cretaceous period. You can walk up to the rocks and bask in the magnitude of their splendor, however the area is fragile so visitors are discouraged from climbing on them. Also, nearby is a great Jurassic period dig site because of the area’s natural history.
- Castle Rock – Quinter, Kansas
Castle Rock is a unique monument near Quinter located just off I-70. It's made of layers of different-colored rocks that have been eroded over time by the powerful winds of the High Plains. The rock is 70 ft tall and 100 ft wide, and it’s a popular sightseeing attraction and is easily accessed off exit 109.
- Limon Heritage Museum and Railroad Park – Limon, Colorado
As you draw near the endpoint of your trip, then stop at Limon Heritage Museum and Railroad Park in Limon, Colorado. It tells the history of Limon in Colorado and the region’s railroad, a critical player in the historical transportation of Limon’s agriculture. The museum has numerous exhibits, including a locomotive and a 1920s-era Pullman car for the visitors to walk through, it’s a must-stop on this road trip.
Conclusion
The highway between the quintessential town of Abilene in eastern Texas and the picturesque town of Limon in eastern Colorado offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see some of the most beautiful and striking landscapes anywhere in North America. From Palo Duro Canyon State Park to Limon Heritage Museum and Railroad Park, these five incredible destinations are just the tip of the iceberg that can be found along the way. Get out there and hit the open road, and recognize the adventure that awaits you on this iconic road trip.