Northern Edwards Plateau Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Northern Edwards Plateau with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover top attractions, outdoor adventures, hiking/biking routes, food and drink spots, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Northern Edwards Plateau

Located in the Texas Panhandle, Northern Edwards Plateau is a region known for its rugged beauty, diverse wildlife, and rich history. With its vast stretches of wild grasslands, rocky hills, and winding rivers, Northern Edwards Plateau offers a wide range of opportunities for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and relaxation.

This travel guide is designed to help you plan your trip to this fascinating region, covering everything from top attractions and hiking routes to where to stay and what to eat.

List of Places to Visit in Northern Edwards Plateau

Here are some of the top places to visit in Northern Edwards Plateau:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum: Located in Canyon, this museum showcases the history and culture of the Texas Panhandle region, including exhibits on Native American artifacts, pioneer life, and ranching heritage.

  • Frontier Texas: Situated in Abilene, Frontier Texas tells the story of the Texas frontier through interactive exhibits and multimedia presentations. Visitors can experience life on the frontier, encounter famous figures like Davy Crockett and Sam Houston, and learn about the art of cattle driving.

  • Fort Concho National Historic Landmark: Built in the 1860s, Fort Concho is a well-preserved military outpost that played a key role in protecting the West Texas frontier. Visitors can explore the fort’s barracks, officers’ quarters, and parade grounds, and learn about the soldiers who served there.

Natural Attractions of Northern Edwards Plateau: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Caprock Canyons State Park: Known for its stunning red rocks and breathtaking canyons, Caprock Canyons offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife watching. Visitors can also see the herd of bison that roams freely in the park.

  • Palo Duro Canyon State Park: Often called the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” Palo Duro Canyon is a must-see destination for nature lovers. Visitors can hike, bike, or horseback ride through the canyon’s colorful rock formations, or attend the famous outdoor musical “TEXAS” in the summer.

  • Lake Stamford: This picturesque lake is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and swimming, and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can also hike the trails around the lake or rent a cabin for a relaxing getaway.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Northern Edwards Plateau

For outdoor enthusiasts, Northern Edwards Plateau has a variety of hiking and biking trails to choose from. Here are some of the best options:

  • Lighthouse Trail in Palo Duro Canyon State Park: This 6-mile roundtrip hike takes you to the top of the park’s iconic Lighthouse rock formation, offering spectacular views of the canyon below.

  • Turkey Creek Trail in Caprock Canyons State Park: This 6-mile loop hike takes you through a scenic canyon and past a waterfall, with plenty of opportunities for wildlife sightings along the way.

  • Lake Colorado City State Park Trail: This 6.5-mile trail wraps around the lake and offers stunning views of the water and surrounding hills. With plenty of picnic areas and fishing spots along the way, it’s a great way to spend a day outdoors.

Best Things to Do in Northern Edwards Plateau: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, there are plenty of other activities and tours to enjoy in Northern Edwards Plateau. Here are a few ideas:

  • Horseback riding in Palo Duro Canyon: Several outfitters offer guided horseback rides through the canyon, giving visitors a unique perspective on the rugged terrain.

  • Wine tasting in the Texas Hill Country: Just a short drive from Northern Edwards Plateau, the rolling hills of the Texas Hill Country are home to numerous wineries and vineyards, offering tastings and tours year-round.

  • Photography tours of the region: With its stunning landscapes and wildlife, Northern Edwards Plateau is a photographer’s dream. Join a guided tour to learn about the best spots and techniques for capturing beautiful images.

Week-Long Itinerary for Northern Edwards Plateau

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Northern Edwards Plateau:

Day 1: Arrive in Amarillo, explore the city’s museums and attractions. Day 2: Visit Palo Duro Canyon State Park, hike the Lighthouse Trail. Day 3: Explore the town of Canyon, including the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum. Day 4: Head to Caprock Canyons State Park, hike the Turkey Creek Trail. Day 5: Spend a day at Lake Stamford, fishing or boating on the water. Day 6: Take a wine tasting tour in the Texas Hill Country. Day 7: Return to Amarillo for some last-minute souvenir shopping and sightseeing before departing.

Food and Drink Scene of Northern Edwards Plateau

No trip to Northern Edwards Plateau is complete without experiencing the region’s delicious food and drink. Here are some of the best options:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chicken Fried Steak: This quintessential Texas dish is a staple on menus throughout the region. Served with a side of mashed potatoes and gravy, it’s comfort food at its best.

  • Tex-Mex: From enchiladas to tacos to fajitas, Northern Edwards Plateau has plenty of options for lovers of spicy, flavorful Mexican food.

  • Steak: With its history of ranching and cattle drives, it’s no surprise that Northern Edwards Plateau is home to some of the best steakhouses in the state. Enjoy a juicy, perfectly cooked steak with all the fixings.

Local Beverages

  • Dr Pepper: Originally created in Waco, Texas, Dr Pepper is a beloved soft drink that’s often considered a must-try for visitors to the Lone Star State.

  • Craft Beer: With a growing number of microbreweries and taprooms, Northern Edwards Plateau has become a hub for craft beer lovers. Sample local brews and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere at spots like Six Car Pub & Brewery in Abilene.

Where to Stay in Northern Edwards Plateau: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Whether you’re looking for luxury accommodations or a budget-friendly option, Northern Edwards Plateau has plenty of places to stay. Here are some options to consider:

  • Saddleback Lodge in Canyon: This charming bed and breakfast offers comfortable rooms and a delicious breakfast each morning, along with easy access to the region’s top attractions.

  • Palo Duro Canyon State Park campgrounds: For a more rustic experience, camp in the heart of the canyon and enjoy beautiful views and easy access to hiking and biking trails.

  • Courtyard Abilene Northeast: This modern hotel in Abilene offers comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and a restaurant serving Texas-style cuisine.

What to Buy in Northern Edwards Plateau: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When it comes to souvenirs, Northern Edwards Plateau offers plenty of options for visitors looking to bring home a piece of Texas. Here are a few ideas:

  • Handcrafted pottery and ceramics, sold at local art galleries and shops.

  • Handmade leather goods, such as belts, wallets, and bags, sold at cowboy outfitters and Western wear stores.

  • Locally made jams, jellies, and other food products, available at farmers markets and specialty stores.

Local Culture and Customs of Northern Edwards Plateau

With its long history of ranching and cowboy culture, Northern Edwards Plateau has a distinct identity and way of life. Visitors should be aware of local customs and traditions, such as respect for landowners and property rights, as well as the region’s love of rodeos, barbecues, and other outdoor events.

Best Time to Visit Northern Edwards Plateau

The best time to visit Northern Edwards Plateau depends on your interests and preferences. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and pleasant weather for outdoor activities, while summer can be hot and humid. Winter can be chilly, but it’s a great time to enjoy cozy indoor activities like museums and galleries.

Do’s and Don’ts of Northern Edwards Plateau

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when visiting Northern Edwards Plateau:

Do:

  • Respect private property and landowners.

  • Dress appropriately for outdoor activities, with sturdy shoes and plenty of sunscreen.

  • Try the local food, like chicken fried steak and Tex-Mex.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage natural areas.

  • Ignore warning signs about wildlife or dangerous terrain.

  • Touch or attempt to feed wild animals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Northern Edwards Plateau

As with any outdoor destination, visitors to Northern Edwards Plateau should be aware of potential safety hazards and take appropriate precautions. These include:

  • Taking care on hikes and outdoor activities, and being prepared with adequate supplies and equipment.

  • Staying hydrated and aware of heat exhaustion in hot weather conditions.

  • Avoiding contact with wild animals and following park rules and regulations.

Health in Northern Edwards Plateau

Visitors to Northern Edwards Plateau should take basic health precautions, such as wearing insect repellent to prevent tick bites and bringing any necessary medications. In case of emergency, medical facilities are located in nearby cities like Amarillo and Abilene.

Getting to Northern Edwards Plateau: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here’s what you need to know about getting to and around Northern Edwards Plateau:

Airports Near Northern Edwards Plateau

The closest major airport to Northern Edwards Plateau is Amarillo International Airport (AMA), with daily flights to cities like Dallas, Denver, and Phoenix.

Bus Stations Near Northern Edwards Plateau

Greyhound buses stop in several towns near Northern Edwards Plateau, including Amarillo, Abilene, and San Angelo.

Other Options

For those traveling by car, Northern Edwards Plateau is easily accessible via Interstate 40 and other major highways.

How to Get Around in Northern Edwards Plateau

To explore the region’s top attractions, it’s best to have a car or other private transportation. However, guided tours and shuttles are also available for those who prefer not to drive.

Where to Go Next from Northern Edwards Plateau: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring Northern Edwards Plateau, why not check out nearby destinations like:

  • The Texas Hill Country: This region is known for its rolling hills, charming small towns, and great wine tasting.

  • Lubbock: This bustling city is home to Texas Tech University and a thriving arts and music scene.

  • Big Bend National Park: Located in far west Texas, this stunning national park is known for its colorful canyons, mountains, and deserts.

Conclusion

From its stunning natural scenery to its rich history and culture, Northern Edwards Plateau has something to offer every traveler. Use this travel guide to plan your visit and make the most of your time in this beautiful part of Texas.



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