Canyon Sweep Panoramic Road

The Canyon Sweep Panoramic Road is a 120 km (75 mile) journey through some of the most spectacular scenery in the United States. Starting in Amarillo, Texas, the road winds through the small town of Claude before reaching the breathtaking Palo Duro Canyon, the second largest canyon in the United States. From here, the road continues to the small town of Silverton, Texas. Along the way, drivers can take in views of the rolling hills, the Llano Estacado, and the Caprock Escarpment. The best time of year for this road trip is in the spring or fall, when temperatures are mild and the landscape is full of color. The roads are in good condition, so the journey is suitable for every driver. With a moderate budget, travelers can find plenty of places to explore and stay overnight. The entire trip can be completed in one day, although it’s best to plan for a few stops along the way to take in the sights.

Amarillo, Texas, is the perfect starting point for your Canyon Sweep Panoramic Road journey. Located in the Texas panhandle, Amarillo is a hub of culture, history and entertainment. Admire the city’s vibrant art scene at the Amarillo Museum of Art and explore the historical side of Amarillo with a visit to the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame and Museum. Amarillo is also home to the world’s largest outdoor musical, TEXAS - The Musical. For travelers coming from out of town, the Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport (AMA) is the closest international airport and offers car rental services. Whether you’re looking for a luxury ride or a budget-friendly option, you’ll find the perfect car for your road trip here. When you’re ready to hit the road, the Canyon Sweep Panoramic Road awaits. Enjoy the beautiful Texas countryside and some of the most unique and spectacular sights in the state.

Welcome road-trippers! We invite you to explore the 22mi stretch between Amarillo and Claude. This drive promises to be an exciting journey, with plenty of attractions and sights to explore. Start your journey in Amarillo and take in the sights of the Palo Duro Canyon State Park, offering stunning views and plenty of recreational activities. Then, make your way to the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame and Museum, where you can learn about the history of the breed and its importance to the state. As you make your way towards Claude, be sure to keep an eye out for the scenic road. This drive will take you fewer than 1 hours and is the perfect opportunity to soak in the beauty of the Texas countryside. Once you reach Claude, take the time to explore the historic downtown area and the local attractions. The Claude Cowboy Museum is a great place to learn more about the history of the area, while the Claude Antique Mall offers a wide selection of unique items. This is just one of the many stages of your road-trip, so be sure to take your time and enjoy the journey. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage.

Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip from Claude to Silverton? This 52mi journey is full of amazing sights and attractions and will take you less than an hour to complete. Start your journey in Claude, and make sure to take a look at the historical sites and the scenic road. As you make your way to Silverton, you’ll be able to explore more of the area, including some of the most interesting places. Don’t forget to take a few pictures along the way! When you arrive in Silverton, you’ll be able to explore more of the area and get to know the locals. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary for this stage of the journey. So buckle up and get ready for an amazing adventure from Claude to Silverton!

Located in the state of Oregon, Silverton is a beautiful small city, surrounded by the Cascade Mountains and the Willamette Valley. It is the end point of the amazing Canyon Sweep Panoramic Road, a road trip that will take you through some of the most spectacular canyons and breathtaking views of the Oregon countryside. Silverton offers a number of interesting attractions and activities to keep you entertained. The Oregon Garden is a great place to explore, with 80 acres of lush gardens and trails, a butterfly dome, an amphitheater and a conservatory. The nearby Silver Falls State Park is also a must-see, with 10 miles of hiking trails, and a chance to see the spectacular South Falls cascade. The Oregon Agate & Mineral Museum is a great place to learn about the area's natural history and the arts, and the Oregon State Fairground offers a variety of events throughout the year. For those looking for a more relaxed and peaceful experience, Silverton also has a number of small parks and lakes, perfect for a picnic or a peaceful stroll. If you're looking for a bite to eat, Silverton offers a variety of restaurants, from traditional American fare to Mexican and Italian cuisine. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Portland International Airport (PDX), located approximately 60 miles away. The charming city of Silverton is the perfect ending point for the Canyon Sweep Panoramic Road. With its beautiful scenery, interesting attractions and a variety of activities, it's sure to be a memorable experience.

Before you set off

Embark on a breathtaking journey along the Canyon Sweep Panoramic Road, stretching over 120 km (75 miles) of diverse terrain in the United States. This Scenic Drive begins in the city of Amarillo, Texas, renowned for its classic Texan culture and the iconic Cadillac Ranch art installation. As you progress, the route weaves through the quaint town of Claude, where the Armstrong County Museum provides insights into the local history. Your adventure culminates at the awe-inspiring Palo Duro Canyon State Park, a geological marvel stretching approximately 193 km (120 miles) long, up to 32 km (20 miles) wide, and over 240 meters (800 feet) deep. After exploring the canyon's rugged beauty, the Road continues to the historic town of Silverton, offering a glimpse of the vast Llano Estacado plains and the dramatic Caprock Escarpment.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• The crown jewel of this journey is the Palo Duro Canyon, recognized as the second-largest canyon in the United States, often heralded as `The Grand Canyon of Texas.` Its colorful layers of rock, abundant wildlife, and ancient history—evidenced by 12,000-year-old human artifacts found here—make it a must-see destination.
• Along the way, marvel at the expansive Llano Estacado, once called the `staked plains` by early Spanish explorers due to its flat and featureless appearance, which contrasts vividly with the deep canyons carved by the Red River and its tributaries.
• The Caprock Escarpment, a significant geological feature, marks the transition from the High Plains to the lower rolling plains, offering striking panoramic views.

Best Time to Go:

The most favorable times for this Road Trip are during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is temperate and the landscape bursts into a symphony of color. Springtime brings wildflowers, including the Texas state flower, the bluebonnet, while fall foliage paints the canyon in shades of gold, orange, and red.

Potential Risks:

Navigating the Canyon Sweep Panoramic Road is generally safe, with well-maintained highways. However, visitors should be cautious of weather-related hazards, particularly flash flooding in Palo Duro Canyon, which can occur suddenly during heavy rains, typically from May through September. Always check local weather forecasts before setting out and heed any park advisories.

Facts for Roadtrippers:

Allocate at least a full day to truly immerse yourself in the stunning vistas and attractions along the Canyon Sweep Panoramic Road. The Trip is cost-effective with mindful planning, and there are numerous options for accommodations, from campgrounds in Palo Duro Canyon State Park to cozy bed and breakfasts in surrounding towns. Don't miss the chance to witness the outdoor musical drama `TEXAS` performed in the canyon's amphitheater during the summer months, a spectacular show that celebrates the state's history.

A good choice for:

The Canyon Sweep Panoramic Road offers an unforgettable experience, blending the enchanting natural wonders of the Texas Panhandle with the allure of small-town Americana. This accessible route invites Roadtrippers to discover a region steeped in rich history, artistic heritage, and stunning landscapes that capture the heart of the American Southwest.