Tucked away in West Texas, Guadalupe Mountains National Park is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Known for its striking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and rich history, the park offers a wide range of trails for those who like hiking.
Within the park is the world’s most extensive Permian fossil reef, the four highest peaks in Texas, and an environmentally diverse collection of flora and fauna.
One feature noticeably absent from the park is a scenic drive. Most National Park travelers are familiar with a loop or road that takes them from one end of the park to the other. For various reasons and circumstances, one does not exist at this park. Because of that, if you are not looking to do a lot of hiking, we recommend skipping this park in favor of one just 30 minutes up the road, Carlsbad Caverns National Park.
But if you choose to make the stop, keep reading for more details about the park.
Highlights of Guadalupe Mountains National Park
McKittrick Canyon – Often referred to as the “most beautiful spot in Texas,” McKittrick Canyon is a must-visit, especially during the fall when the foliage transforms into vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. The 4.8-mile round-trip hike to the Grotto and Hunter Line Cabin if you are looking for a moderate trek through great scenery.
Frijole Ranch – This historic ranch serves as a cultural center and museum, providing insight into the lives of the early settlers in the Guadalupe Mountains. The ranch is a great starting point for exploring the Smith Spring Loop, a 2.3-mile hike that leads to a lush spring and offers a refreshing contrast to the arid surroundings. The buildings were closed while we were there, but we were still able to peek inside many of the windows which made it quite exciting for the kids.
Manzanita Spring – Close to the Frijole Ranch, Manzanita Spring is billed as a small oasis that attracts a variety of wildlife. The walk to the spring is short and easy but be prepared to be disappointed. There isn’t much to see and the only way the kids could see the spring is if we held them up in the air.
Guadalupe Peak – As the highest point in Texas, Guadalupe Peak stands at 8,751 feet and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding desert and mountains. The 8.4-mile round-trip hike to the summit is challenging but rewarding, making it a bucket-list item for many hikers.
El Capitan – El Capitan, the park’s iconic limestone peak, is a sight to behold. While there is no direct trail to the summit, the 11-mile round-trip Salt Basin Overlook Trail offers spectacular views of El Capitan and the surrounding desert landscape. To get the best views by vehicle, head out of the park and drive south on I-62 to the rest area about 4.5 miles from the Pine Springs Visitor Center.
Pratt Cabin – While McKittrick Canyon is well-known, many visitors overlook Pratt Cabin, a charming stone structure built in the 1930s by Wallace Pratt, a geologist and early conservationist. The cabin is located about 2.4 miles from the McKittrick Canyon trailhead and offers a peaceful spot to rest and enjoy the views.
The Bowl – For those seeking a more secluded and challenging hike, The Bowl is an alpine meadow located in the higher elevations of the park. The 9.1-mile round-trip hike from Pine Springs takes you through a variety of ecosystems, from desert scrub to lush forests, and offers a unique perspective on the park’s diverse landscapes.
Salt Basin Dunes – Located in the western part of the park, the Salt Basin Dunes are a hidden wonder. These pristine white sand dunes offer a surreal and otherworldly experience, and the short 3-mile round-trip hike to the dunes is relatively easy. Be sure to visit during sunrise or sunset for the most magical lighting.
Final Note:
Plan for Limited Services – Guadalupe Mountains National Park is in a remote area and there are limited services within and around the park. Also, know what time it is. You are right on the border of the time zone and while we were there our phones kept changing back and forth making it hard to determine what time it was. Though it might not normally be a big deal, we had reservations for Carlsbad Caverns National Park up the road early in the afternoon and needed to be sure to be there on time! The large clock on the wall at McKittrick Canyon Visitor Center might be of help!
