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Explore Off-Road in the Canyons & Plains of the Texas Panhandle
Explore Off-Road in the Canyons & Plains of the Texas Panhandle
Apr 25, 2025 1:49 AM

  Presented by the 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport

  

Explore Off-Road in the Canyons & Plains of the Texas Panhandle1

  With rugged landscapes that range from red-banded cliffs to sprawling grasslands and plains, the Texas Panhandle is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. To explore the area to the fullest, ditch the pavement and set off down remote dirt roads in search of adventure.

  From mountain biking in Palo Duro Canyon and paddling in cliff-lined coves to camping under starry skies away from it all, this guide will take you through this wild and exciting region of the Lone Star State.

  Ready to hit the dirt road? The all-new 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport brings trail-ready capability and rugged style to your off-roading adventures. The vehicle is packed with elevated technology and available accessories to handle the tough terrain youll encounter on a road trip through the Texas Panhandle. Keep reading to start planning your journey with this powerful SUV.

  

Explore Off-Road in the Canyons & Plains of the Texas Panhandle2

  

Explore Off-Road in the Canyons & Plains of the Texas Panhandle3

  Honda Genuine Accessories — like the frame or fork mount bike attachments — add versatility so you can explore new rugged adventures; (top/Alamy; bottom/Honda)

  Disclaimer: Passport TrailSport Elite shown with Honda Genuine Accessories. Accessory picnic table shown. Paddle the Panhandle Get out on the water at one of many lakes in the Texas Panhandle. At Possum Kingdom State Park, clear blue waters and more than 300 miles of shoreline bordered by dramatic cliffs make for an intriguing paddle. Navigate hidden coves and around protruding rock formations as you explore the 17,000-acre lake.

  Then make your way to the southeastern corner of the lake, where you can continue your journey down one of the most scenic stretches of the Brazos River, which flows under high granite bluffs before opening up to reveal spectacular views of the Palo Pinto Mountains.

  In the northern part of the Panhandle, Lake Meredith National Recreation Area is an oasis amid the regions arid grasslands. The lake is prone to high winds, but non-motorized vessels can find a quiet refuge to paddle in the Spring Canyon Basin.

  The basins wetlands are one of seven unique habitats around the lake that support migratory birds and other wildlife. After your paddle, dont miss a chance to go for a spin on the recreation areas OHV trails at Blue Creek or Rosita Flats.

  

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Explore Off-Road in the Canyons & Plains of the Texas Panhandle5

  The 10-speed transmission offers precise gearing to handle rough trails with ease; (top photos/Shutterstock, bottom photo/Honda)

  Disclaimer: Passport TrailSport Elite shown with Honda Genuine Accessories. Explore the Honda Passport TrailSport Adventure Off-Road Speaking of OHV trails, beginners and seasoned off-road drivers can put their skills to the test at the off-road trails at MERUS Adventure. As one of the most unique trail systems in the region, this 5,500-acre park offers more than 30 miles of hand-built trails that combine a dynamic mix of obstacles, from sharp ascents and descents to rocky terrain that demands precision and skill.

  Grab a multiday pass and book one of 140 remote campsites on the property to explore on your own. Green trails throughout the park are the perfect level for stock off-road vehicles, like the Honda Passport. Or get tips for handling your vehicle and navigating rugged terrain from an experienced off-roader.

  

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Explore Off-Road in the Canyons & Plains of the Texas Panhandle7

  With bold styling, advanced technology, all-terrain tires, off-road tuned suspension, and more, the Honda Passport TrailSport can tackle almost any terrain; (top/Shutterstock; bottom/Honda)

  Disclaimer: Passport TrailSport Elite shown with Honda Genuine Accessories. Camp in the Great Wide Open Immerse yourself in the magic of the Panhandles sprawling prairie landscapes with an overnight stay at Caprock Canyons State Park. Choose drive-in sites with full hookups or primitive hike-in sites. Either way, youll have a chance to pitch your tent beneath the stunning Caprock Escarpment this popular park is known for.

  During the day, explore trails through dramatic redrock landscapes and spot Southern Plains bison on the grasslands. After the sun goes down, direct your gaze upward. As a Dark Sky Preserve, the park offers exceptional views of the cosmos with minimal light pollution.

  Looking for a more secluded spot? Opt for Lake Marvin in the Black Kettle National Grasslands or Copper Breaks State Park — both near the Oklahoma border. These remote areas offer a quiet place to escape the crowds and connect with nature.

  

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Explore Off-Road in the Canyons & Plains of the Texas Panhandle9

  Built for outdoor adventures, the Honda Passport has plenty of room for all your camping gear, plus, smart, adventure-ready features — like the accessory MOLLE panels available to securely clip bags or tools, cargo shelf that transforms into a table, and available tailgate light that illuminates your setup; (top/Shutterstock; bottom/Honda)

  Disclaimer: Passport TrailSport Elite shown with Honda Genuine Accessories. Accessory MOLLE panel and picnic table shown.

  Honda reminds you to properly secure cargo items and follow all applicable load limits and loading guidelines. Make a Pitstop at a Quirky Roadside Attraction Punctuate your off-road adventures with cultural experiences you can only find in the Texas Panhandle. Across the regions vast landscapes, the last remaining Texas longhorn herds graze. Keep an eye out for the iconic symbols of the states western heritage in pastures throughout the Panhandle, including at Fort Griffin Historic Site along the historic Great Western Cattle Trail, where the largest herd resides. Or get a chance to observe smaller herds at Copper Break, Palo Duro Canyon, and San Angelo state parks.

  Then, cruise Highway 40 — known as the Main Street of America because of its connection to the Historic Route 66 — to hit a variety of unique locales, including the Leaning Tower of Texas, the Historic 6th Street District and colorful murals throughout downtown Amarillo, and plenty of entertaining roadside art.

  If youve worked up an appetite on the road, youre in luck. The Texas Panhandle is home to some of the most iconic Texan-sized meals. Stop by the Big Texan Steak Ranch, where you can tuck into a 72-ounce steak — free of charge if you can finish the full meal in one sitting — and other Texan meals of more reasonable portions.

  

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  Seamlessly transition from off-road to on with smart features like the active shuttle grille, which automatically opens and closes to help with efficiency and improved aerodynamics; (top/Shutterstock; bottom/Honda)

  Disclaimer: Honda Passport TrailSport Elite shown with Honda Genuine Accessories.

  Honda reminds you to properly secure cargo items and follow all applicable load limits and loading guidelines. Explore the Honda Passport TrailSport This article was sponsored by the all-new 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport.

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