A Perfect Road Trip From Amarillo to El Paso
Are you planning a road trip from Amarillo to El Paso? The trip from Amarillo, located in the northern part of Texas, to El Paso, located in far western Texas, is a must-see road trip that offers some of the best attractions the Lone Star State has to offer.
As you journey along its vast and winding roads, you’ll encounter an array of stunning landscapes, intriguing natural attractions, and many historical sites along the way. Get ready to be fascinated by the vastness of the grassy plains and canyons, as well as the awe-inspiring views of the mountains.
So, to make your road trip even more enjoyable, we’ve hand-picked the top places to visit when driving from Amarillo to El Paso. These must-see places will make your journey a memorable one.
Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Palo Duro Canyon State Park is one of the major highlights of Texas. The park is located 30 minutes south of Amarillo. The vivid red canyon walls create a spectacular backdrop to the park’s rich geological history. They tell the story of people living in the area for centuries, from the ancient residents who left stunning rock paintings to the cowboys and settlers who established cattle ranches in the area.
The park has several hiking trails, mountain biking, and equestrian trails for you to explore. The highlight is the Light House Trail, a 6-mile hike that leads you to the canyon walls’ pinnacle, offering a stunning view of the canyon below. There are campsites available in the park for those who want to stay overnight and enjoy the beauty of the night sky.
Lubbock, Texas
Lubbock is known for its vibrant music scene, as it is the birthplace of Buddy Holly, a famous rock n roll musician. Lubbock is also home to Texas Tech University, which boasts stunning architecture and a top-rated museum.
Head downtown to soak up the city's history by visiting the National Ranching Heritage Center, which presents the story of ranching in Texas, and the Buddy Holly Center – a museum dedicated to the pioneer of rock ‘n’ roll. Lubbock also has several art galleries and public art installations throughout the city, including the world-famous Louise Hopkins Underwood Center for the Arts (LHUCA).
Balmorhea State Park
Balmorhea State Park is a mecca for swimming enthusiasts. It is located 30 miles west of Fort Davis and is home to the world’s largest spring-fed swimming pool, where the water stays at a comfortable temperature of 72-76°F all year round. The park is situated in the middle of the Chihuahuan Desert and surrounded by stunning landscapes and mountain ranges.
The park offers swimming, snorkeling, and skin-diving. You can also rent paddle boats and kayaks to explore the park's crystal clear waters. The park has an on-site campground with 34 campsites, so you can stay overnight and enjoy more of the park’s beauty.
Fort Davis National Historic Site
Fort Davis National Historic Site is a must-visit destination for any history buff. The fort was built in the 1850s to protect the area from hostile Indians and served as a major supply base and communications link during and after the Civil War. Today, it is a well-preserved historic site that allows visitors to explore military life in the Old West.
The fort has 24 original and restored buildings, including barracks, hospitals, and an officers’ quarters. You can take a guided tour by the park rangers and learn about the life of soldiers and their families, as well as the area’s rich history. The fort also has several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the valley.
Hueco Tanks State Park
Hueco Tanks State Park is a unique and important cultural site located 32 miles east of El Paso. The park is located in the cultural home of the Mescalero Apaches and offers rock climbing, hiking, and bird-watching opportunities. Hueco Tanks’ boulders provide a world famous rock climbing destination.
The park’s greatest attraction is the rock paintings, which were created by the ancient inhabitants of the area thousands of years ago. The park rangers lead interpretive tours of the pictographs to educate visitors about the history and significance of the rock art. The park also has several hiking trails that offer great views of the desert flora and fauna.
Conclusion
The road trip from Amarillo to El Paso offers some of the best attractions Texas has to offer. The above-listed destinations are just a few of the must-see places you won't want to miss. Remember to plan accordingly, check for weather updates, and make sure to take plenty of breaks along the way to truly experience the beauty of the region. Get ready to be amazed by the stunning landscapes, unique cultural sites, and natural wonders along the road. Let the journey begin!