Is it any surprise we ended up at the Guads — Guadalupe Mountains NP. We were planning on surprising our friends that were gathering here, but I think they were on to us.
Pine Springs, Guadalupe Mountains NP - National Park Campground, Pine Springs, TX (neat Salt Flats): Site #25 (19 RV sites total) - This site has: water nearby. Campground Notes: flush toilets • vault toilets • no dump station available • trails from campground • trails nearby • 5,820’ elevation. April 13th - 16th. Miles traveled: 135.
Overall Experience:
Best Time to Visit Guadalupe Mountains National Park
The best time to visit Guadalupe Mountains National Park is typically in the fall (September to November) or spring (March to May) when temperatures are mild. Summers can be very hot, while winters can be cold with occasional snow.
Getting There
The park is located in west Texas, about 110 miles east of El Paso and 55 miles southwest of Carlsbad, New Mexico. The main entrance and Pine Springs Visitor Center are accessible via U.S. Highway 62/180.
Entrance Fees
- The entrance fee is $10 per person.
- Alternatively, you can use an America the Beautiful annual pass, which costs $80 and gives you access to all national parks for a year.
Where to Stay
- Camping: The park offers two developed campgrounds:
- Pine Springs Campground (near the main visitor center)
- Dog Canyon Campground (on the park's north side)
- Backcountry camping is available with a permit.
- Lodging: There are no lodges within the park. The nearest accommodations are in nearby towns like Van Horn or Carlsbad.
What to Do
- Hiking: This is the primary activity in the park. Some popular trails include:
- Guadalupe Peak Trail: A challenging 8.4-mile round trip to the highest point in Texas (8,751 feet).
- Devil's Hall Trail: A moderate 3.8-mile round trip through a rocky canyon.
- Smith Spring Trail: An easy 2.3-mile loop with diverse vegetation.
- McKittrick Canyon Trail: Offers various distances, known for its fall colors.
- Visit the Pine Springs Visitor Center: Start your trip here to get information, maps, and speak with rangers.
- Scenic Drives: While limited, the drive to McKittrick Canyon or Dog Canyon can be scenic.
- Wildlife Viewing: The park is home to diverse wildlife, including mule deer, elk, and various bird species.
What to Pack
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Plenty of water (at least one gallon per person per day)
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- Layers of clothing (temperatures can vary significantly)
- First aid kit
- Map and compass (cell service is limited)
Water is scarce in the park. Bring all the water you'll need. Be prepared for sudden weather changes, especially high winds. Stay on designated trails, especially in McKittrick Canyon. Pets are only allowed in drive-in campgrounds, not on trails or in the backcountry. There are no fires allowed in the park, including charcoal. The park can be less crowded on weekdays and during off-peak seasons.
Must-See Attractions and Experiences
Here are some of the must-see attractions and experiences in Guadalupe Mountains National Park:
- Guadalupe Peak Trail: This challenging 8.4-mile round trip hike takes you to the highest point in Texas at 8,751 feet. It's a signature experience in the park.
- McKittrick Canyon: Known for its beautiful fall colors, diverse vegetation, and rich history. The McKittrick Canyon Trail offers various hiking options, including to Pratt Cabin, the Grotto, and the Notch.
- Devil's Hall Trail: A moderate 3.8-mile round trip hike through a rocky canyon with steep walls and unique geological formations.
- Salt Basin Dunes: Located on the remote west side of the park, these striking white dunes cover nearly 2,000 acres and offer a unique landscape.
- El Capitan: While you can't hike to it, viewing El Capitan from the El Capitan Lookout is a must-do experience. It's an iconic limestone peak visible from Highway 62/180.
- Dog Canyon: Located in a secluded, forested canyon on the north end of the park. It offers a different ecosystem and hiking opportunities, including the trail to Lost Peak.
- Permian Reef Trail: An underrated hike that offers great views and geological interest.
- Frijole Ranch: A historic site that captures the spirit of the Old West and provides insight into the area's ranching history.
- Pine Springs Visitor Center: Start your trip here to get information, maps, and speak with rangers.
- Scenic Drives: While limited, the drives along Highway 62/180 and Highway 54 offer spectacular views of the park and surrounding landscape.
Remember that Guadalupe Mountains National Park is primarily a wilderness park, so most attractions involve hiking and outdoor activities. Be sure to come prepared with plenty of water, sun protection, and appropriate hiking gear. The park's diverse ecosystems, from desert to high mountain forests, offer unique experiences in different areas, so try to explore various parts of the park if time allows.
