When it comes to national parks, Guadalupe Mountains National Park (GMNP) might just be the best-kept secret in the system. With only about 200,000 visitors annually compared to the millions flocking to Yosemite or Grand Canyon, GMNP offers a unique opportunity for solitude and some of the most breathtaking views Texas has to offer. Trust us, this hidden gem is worth every mile of the journey!
Located in West Texas on the New Mexico border, GMNP isn’t exactly a hop and skip away from major cities. It’s about 55 miles from Carlsbad and 110 miles from El Paso, making it a bit of a challenge for weekend warriors. But as we always say at Escape Our Ordinary, the best adventures often require going the extra mile – literally!
We initially planned our trip around visiting Carlsbad Caverns, GMNP’s sister park just a few miles away. Little did Victoria know that Guadalupe Mountains would steal the show and leave us wishing we had more time to explore its rugged beauty. It’s a testament to the park’s allure that it can overshadow even the world-famous caverns nearby.
Things to Do in Guadalupe Mountains National Park
1. Hike Guadalupe Peak Trail
The crown jewel of GMNP is undoubtedly the Guadalupe Peak Trail. This 8.4-mile round trip hike takes you to the highest point in Texas, offering panoramic views that will make you question whether you’re still in the Lone Star State.
Standing at 8,751 feet, Guadalupe Peak is often called the “Top of Texas,” and for good reason. The trail is challenging, with an elevation gain of about 3,000 feet, but the sense of accomplishment (and the views) at the summit are well worth the effort. On a clear day, you can see for over 100 miles in every direction, taking in the vast Chihuahuan Desert, the salt flats to the west, and even into New Mexico.
We’ve written an in-depth guide to conquering Guadalupe Peak, which we highly recommend checking out before your visit. It covers everything from trail conditions to what to pack, ensuring you’re well-prepared for this epic hike.
2. Explore McKittrick Canyon
During our most recent visit in November, we encountered an unexpected twist – snow and ice had made the Guadalupe Peak Trail too dangerous to attempt. But as they say, when one trail closes, another opens! We pivoted to McKittrick Canyon, and boy, were we glad we did.
McKittrick Canyon is often called the “most beautiful spot in Texas,” and it’s easy to see why. In the fall, the canyon explodes with color as the bigtooth maples put on a show that rivals any New England autumn.
The trail offers a variety of options to suit different fitness levels and time constraints:
- Pratt Cabin: An easy 2.4-mile round trip that takes you to a historic stone cabin built in the 1930s.
- The Grotto: A moderate 6.8-mile round trip that leads to a picturesque cave formation with a seasonal waterfall.
- McKittrick Ridge: For the adventurous, this strenuous 14.8-mile round trip offers breathtaking views of the canyon and surrounding mountains.
During our visit we decided to hike to Pratt Cabin and it was definitely not a disappointment. The weather was perfect and we only ran into a handful of other hikers so it felt even more secluded and special.
3. Tackle Devil’s Hall Trail
While we didn’t get to experience it ourselves (thanks, tired legs!), Devil’s Hall Trail is reputed to be the second-best hike in the park. This 3.8-mile round trip takes you through a rocky wash and up a natural rock staircase to a narrow canyon known as Devil’s Hall.
The trail starts out relatively easy but becomes more challenging as you navigate the wash. The highlight is the “natural staircase,” a series of rock ledges that form steps leading up to the hall. Once you reach Devil’s Hall itself, you’ll be treated to a narrow limestone canyon with walls towering up to 100 feet high on either side.
It’s definitely on our list for our next visit, and we recommend adding it to yours too!
4. Stargaze Under Dark Skies
With its remote location and minimal light pollution, GMNP is a stargazer’s paradise. If you’re camping in the park, don’t forget to look up – you might just see the Milky Way in all its glory.
The park occasionally offers ranger-led stargazing programs, which are a great way to learn about the night sky and the park’s efforts to protect its dark sky resources. Even if you’re not a seasoned astronomer, the sheer number of stars visible on a clear night is awe-inspiring.
5. Visit Frijole Ranch Museum
For a dose of human history amidst all the natural wonders, stop by the Frijole Ranch Museum. This historic homestead offers a glimpse into the lives of early settlers in the Guadalupe Mountains. The small museum is housed in a restored stone building and features exhibits on ranching, local wildlife, and the area’s geological history.
Where to Stay
Accommodation options in GMNP are limited, adding to its off-the-beaten-path charm. The park offers two developed campgrounds:
- Pine Springs Campground: Located near the visitor center, this campground has 20 tent sites and 13 RV sites. It’s first-come, first-served, so arrive early, especially during peak seasons.
- Dog Canyon Campground: On the park’s north side, this more remote campground has 9 tent sites and 4 RV sites. It’s a great option if you’re looking for extra solitude.
If you’re not up for roughing it or lucking out with a campsite, your best bets for hotels are in Carlsbad or Artesia, both about an hour’s drive away. While this means a bit of extra driving, it also allows you to combine your GMNP visit with a trip to Carlsbad Caverns, making for an epic national park double feature!
We normally choose to stay in Carlsbad since we can pivot to Carlsbad Caverns National Park with ease and after a long night of driving sometimes it is nice to just stop at a hotel rather than setup a tent. There are plenty of hotels in town but if you are visiting during a holiday weekend make sure to book ahead of time if you are looking for a nicer accommodation.
Tips for Visiting Guadalupe Mountains National Park
- Plan for at least two days: One day is simply not enough to fully appreciate all that GMNP has to offer. We left wishing we had at least one more day to explore other trails and soak in the park’s unique atmosphere. If possible, aim for three to four days to really do the park justice.
- Be prepared for changing weather: Our winter visit taught us that GMNP can throw some curveballs weather-wise. The park’s elevation means it can be significantly cooler than surrounding areas, and conditions can change rapidly. Always check the forecast and trail conditions before setting out, and be prepared to adjust your plans if necessary.
- Bring plenty of water: The park’s arid climate means you’ll need more water than you might expect. There are no water sources on most trails, so pack accordingly. A good rule of thumb is to bring at least one gallon per person per day for hiking.
- Start early: Whether you’re tackling Guadalupe Peak or exploring McKittrick Canyon, getting an early start will help you beat the heat (in summer) and the crowds (year-round). Plus, the early morning light makes for some spectacular photography opportunities.
- Respect the wilderness: GMNP is a leave-no-trace park. Pack out all your trash, stick to established trails, and give wildlife plenty of space. Remember, we’re visitors in their home.
Final Thoughts
Guadalupe Mountains National Park may not have the name recognition of some of its sibling parks, but that’s part of what makes it special. It’s a place where you can find solitude, challenge yourself on rugged trails, and experience a side of Texas that many never see.
While we may have initially come for Carlsbad Caverns, we left with a newfound appreciation for GMNP. Whether you’re scaling Guadalupe Peak, marveling at the fall colors in McKittrick Canyon, or simply soaking in the vast desert landscapes, this park is sure to leave you in awe.
So, if you’re looking for an adventure off the beaten path, put Guadalupe Mountains National Park on your list. Just be prepared – like us, you might find yourself planning your return trip before you’ve even left!
Don’t forget to check out our detailed guide to hiking Guadalupe Peak for more tips and insights on conquering Texas’ highest point!
