Are you ready to unplug from the daily grind and explore one of the most underrated national parks in the country? Look no further than Guadalupe Mountains National Park. Located in West Texas, this remote park offers stunning views, challenging hikes, and a chance to disconnect from technology and connect with nature. Keep reading to learn more about what makes Guadalupe Mountains National Park a must-visit destination for hikers, backpackers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Let’s take a look at what makes this park so special, along with my picks for best hikes at Guadalupe Mountains National Park!
Disclaimer: This post may feature some affiliate links, which means I get a small commission if you make a purchase (at no extra cost to you). It’s one of the ways I can keep producing free guides and resources for readers. Learn more about my affiliate policy here. Thank you for the support!
History of the Park
The history of Guadalupe Mountains National Park is a fascinating tale of exploration and preservation. This rugged landscape was once home to native tribes, including the Mescalero Apache, who roamed its mountain ranges for centuries. In the 1800s, American pioneers made their way through the area, carving out homesteads and establishing ranching communities.
Fast forward a few decades to the early 1900s, and the park’s founder, Wallace Pratt, became enamored with the area’s unique limestone formations and diverse wildlife. Thanks to his efforts and the hard work of countless others, Guadalupe Mountains was established as a national park in 1966, ensuring that this remarkable corner of the world would be protected for generations to come.
Best Time to Visit
If you’re a nature lover, Guadalupe Mountains National Park should definitely be on your list of must-visit destinations. Choosing the best time to visit, however, can be a bit tricky. Generally speaking, spring and fall tend to be the most popular seasons due to the comfortable temperatures and vibrant foliage.
That being said, the summer months can be incredibly rewarding for those willing to brave the heat, as it’s the best time to witness the park’s unique wildlife in action. Winter can be a bit chilly, but it’s also the ideal time for hiking and exploring without the crowds. Ultimately, the best time to visit really depends on what you want to experience. Regardless of when you go, though, Guadalupe Mountains National Park promises to be an unforgettable adventure.
Where to Stay
If you’re planning a trip to Guadalupe Mountains National Park, you’re in for a treat. With stunning trails and vistas, this park is truly a gem nestled in West Texas. But before you hit the trails, you need to figure out where you’ll be staying. Fortunately, there are several options available to you. If you’re looking to rough it, the park has campsites available. They range from primitive backcountry sites to developed campgrounds with amenities like water and restrooms. If camping isn’t your thing, you can stay in nearby towns like Carlsbad, New Mexico, or El Paso, Texas. These towns have plenty of hotels and other lodging options to suit your needs. Regardless of where you choose to stay, the beauty and wonder of Guadalupe Mountains National Park awaits.
About the Park
First and foremost, Guadalupe Mountains National Park is home to the tallest peak in Texas: Guadalupe Peak. This iconic hike is a must-do for anyone visiting the park. The 8.5-mile roundtrip trail takes hikers to the summit, where they will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and desert landscape. The hike is challenging but doable for most experienced hikers. Just be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no sources of water along the trail.
If you’re looking for a more mellow hike, the McKittrick Canyon Trail is a fun and beautiful option. This hike follows a seasonal creek bed through a lush canyon filled with maple and oak trees. It’s especially stunning in the fall when the leaves change colors. The eight-mile roundtrip trail is moderate in difficulty and is a great option for families with children.
Caves System
Another unique feature of Guadalupe Mountains National Park is its extensive cave system. The park is home to more than 300 caves, with one of the most popular being Carlsbad Caverns. Although not technically part of Guadalupe Mountains National Park, it’s definitely worth the hour-long drive to visit Carlsbad Caverns. The park offers multiple guided tours of the cave system, ranging from easy walking tours to more strenuous options. The caves boast unique geological features, such as massive underground chambers and formations.
If you’re planning on spending a few days in the park, backpacking is a great way to explore the more remote areas of the park. The park offers multiple backcountry camping options, including the stunning backcountry campsites in the high country. Just be sure to obtain a backcountry permit and practice Leave No Trace principles while you’re out there.
No trip to Guadalupe Mountains National Park would be complete without a visit to the historic Frijole Ranch. This ranch, which dates back to the 1800s, provides a glimpse into the lives of ranchers and settlers in the area. The park offers guided tours of the historic ranch buildings and surrounding area. It’s a great way to learn about the human history of the park in addition to its natural wonders.
Best Hikes at Guadalupe Mountains
Guadalupe Peak Trail
If you are looking for an adventurous hike in the Southwest United States, look no further than the Guadalupe Peak Trail at Guadalupe Mountains National Park. With an elevation gain of over 3,000 feet, this 8.5-mile round trip trail takes hikers to the highest point in Texas – the summit of Guadalupe Peak, standing at 8,749 feet tall. Along the way, hikers will experience breathtaking views of the surrounding desert landscape, encounter diverse flora and fauna, and witness the unique features of the Guadalupe Mountains. The views from the summit are incredible, making it one of the best hikes at Guadalupe Mountains. So grab your hiking boots, plenty of water, and prepare yourself for an unforgettable hike to the top of Texas.
Pratt Cabin via the McKittrick Canyon Trail
If you’re looking for a hike that will take you through some of the most stunning scenery that Texas has to offer, then the McKittrick Canyon Trail to Pratt Cabin is just what you need. Located in Guadalupe Mountains National Park, this trail winds through verdant canyons and past towering rock formations, making it a feast for the senses. The 5 mile hike is rated as moderately difficult, so it’s perfect for those who want a bit of a challenge but don’t want to overexert themselves.
As you make your way up to the cabin, keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife, including mule deer, elk, and even the occasional black bear. And when you reach the cabin itself, you’ll be rewarded with incredible views, as well as a reminder of the area’s fascinating history. The historic cabin is a cool bonus, making it one of the best hikes at Guadalupe Mountains. So, lace up your boots, bring plenty of water, and get ready for an adventure you won’t soon forget.
Smith Spring and Manzanita Spring Loop Trail
The Smith Spring and Manzanita Spring Loop Trail at Guadalupe Mountains National Park is a must-do hiking trail for any nature enthusiast. This trail is a moderate 4.2-mile hike that will take you through a diverse terrain of meadows, pine forests and rocky cliffs. You’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding Chihuahuan Desert and the impressive Guadalupe Mountains. Along the way, make sure to stop and admire the clear waters of the springs that give this trail its name. With its stunning scenery and manageable difficulty, this trail is a great way to explore the beauty of Texas nature. The beautiful springs in the desert landscape make this one of the best hikes at Guadalupe Mountains. Make sure to bring plenty of water and take your time to fully appreciate the natural wonders that await you on this adventure.
The Pinery Trail
Guadalupe Mountains National Park boasts some of the most scenic vistas in the Southwest, and the Pinery Trail is a mile walk, and a great introduction to the environment. This easy paved trail offers beautiful views of El Capitan and the surrounding rugged terrain. As you walk through the pine forest, keep an eye out for the park’s diverse wildlife. It’s not uncommon to see mule deer, coyotes, and even a few mighty elk along the way. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just starting out, the Pinery Trail is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and get a glimpse of the unique flora and fauna that call Guadalupe Mountains National Park home. So grab your hiking boots, pack a lunch, and get ready to explore one of the most stunning hiking trails in the country.
Devil’s Hall Trail
As you traverse the Devil’s Hall Trail at Guadalupe Mountains National Park, you’ll find yourself immersed in a stunning landscape of towering rock walls, winding canyons, and rugged terrain. This difficult hike requires some scrambling, but the reward is worth the effort. You’ll encounter unique geological formations, like the towering El Capitan and the sheer walls of the Devil’s Hall, which were carved out by millions of years of erosion. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way, including mule deer, javelinas, and the rare Guadalupe Mountains springsnail. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just starting out, the Devil’s Hall Trail offers an unforgettable adventure you won’t want to miss.
What to Wear
My clothing recommendations for hiking at Guadalupe Mountains varies depending on when in the season you’re going. If you opt for shorts, I like the Prana double peak shorts, but you might want to start with a pair of warm leggings under them if it’s cold. For hiking pants, my go to are the double peak joggers.
On top, for summer hiking I start with a tri-blend t shirt or tank, and then layer on an SPF pullover if it’s warmer outside, or a smartwool pullover if it’s cold or windy. And I usually carried my rain jacket. Finally, my go to hiking shoes are merrell siren sports. They’re comfortable, waterproof, and have Vibram soles which are super grippy, which you’ll appreciate for hiking on all the limestone and sandstone out there!
In conclusion, Guadalupe Mountains National Park is a true hidden gem in West Texas. From stunning hikes to unique cave systems to historic ranches, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So pack your bags, unplug from technology, and get ready to explore this incredible park. You won’t be disappointed.
That’s my list! I hope this helped you plan and get excited for the best hikes at Guadalupe Mountains National Park! What are your favorite hikes in this beautiful area?
As always, please practice Leave No Trace principles when enjoying the outdoors! Check local trail and weather conditions before any hike.
Need help with your day pack? Start here!
Looking for some inspiration to get outside? Look here!