Guadalupe Mountains National Park
The Guadalupe Mountains National Park is a hidden gem located in the far western corner of Texas, near the border with New Mexico. This breathtaking natural wonder is home to the tallest peaks in the state, offering a stunning backdrop for a wide range of outdoor activities and adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, a nature enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of the great outdoors, the Guadalupe Mountains National Park is a destination that will captivate and inspire.
Guadalupe Mountains National Park Overview
Guadalupe Mountains National Park was established in 1972 through an act of Congress (Public Law 89-667) to protect an area with exceptional geological, scenic, and natural values. The park covers 76,293 acres.
The Guadalupe Mountains are a section of the ancient Capitan Reef, part of the Sacramento Mountains, which developed under a tropical ocean around 250 million years ago. This large limestone reef, stretching across parts of present-day New Mexico and Texas, was covered by sediment and later uplifted to create various landforms, including the Guadalupe Mountains.
Things to do in Guadalupe Mountains National Park
The Guadalupe Mountains National Park offers a wide range of outdoor activities and experiences for visitors to enjoy. From hiking and backpacking to scenic drives and horseback riding, there is something for everyone in this unique and beautiful park.
Hiking the Trails in the Guadalupes
One of the main attractions of the Guadalupe Mountains National Park is its extensive network of hiking trails, which offer visitors the opportunity to explore the park’s diverse landscapes and natural features.
Explore over 80 miles of hiking trails that cater to all levels of hikers. From leisurely nature walks among desert plants to moderate hikes through canyons leading to lush oases, and challenging full-day treks into high country forests or up to the Top of Texas, each trail offers a unique experience. Discover the enchanting beauty of Guadalupe Mountains National Park on your next adventure.
Scenic Drives
In addition to the park’s extensive hiking trails, the Guadalupe Mountains National Park also offers several scenic driving routes that allow visitors to explore the park’s diverse landscapes and natural features from the comfort of their vehicles.
Guadalupe Mountains National Park does not have roads passing through its center. However, several roads lead to and provide access within the park.
The main access to the park is through US Highway 62/180, with various spur roads leading into the park. Texas State Highway 54 connects from the south directly to the Guadalupes from Van Horn, Texas. The Dell City Agricultural Loop, which includes FM 1437 and 1576, connects to Williams Road and provides access to the Salt Basin Dunes.
In New Mexico, access to Dog Canyon is available through New Mexico State Road 137 and Dark Canyon Road CR 408 from US Highway 62/180.
Backpacking in Guadalupe
For those seeking a more immersive and challenging outdoor experience, the Guadalupe Mountains National Park offers a wide range of backcountry and wilderness hiking opportunities.
The park’s extensive network of hiking trails, including the Guadalupe Ridge Trail and the Permian Reef Trail, offer visitors the chance to explore the park’s remote and rugged landscapes on multi-day backpacking trips.
Developed Campgrounds
For visitors who prefer a more comfortable and accessible camping experience, the Guadalupe Mountains National Park offers several developed campgrounds, which provide amenities such as picnic tables, fire pits, and flush toilets.
Some of the park’s most popular developed campgrounds include:
- Pine Springs Campground: This campground, located at the base of the Guadalupe Mountains, offers easy access to the park’s hiking trails and other attractions.
- Dog Canyon Campground: This remote campground, located in the northern section of the park, offers a more secluded and peaceful camping experience.
- McKittrick Canyon Trailhead Campground: This small campground, located at the trailhead for the McKittrick Canyon hike, offers easy access to one of the park’s most popular natural attractions.
Wilderness Campgrounds
For those seeking a more rugged and remote camping experience, the Guadalupe Mountains National Park also offers a number of designated wilderness campsites, which can only be accessed by hiking or backpacking.
These wilderness campsites are located throughout the park’s extensive backcountry trail network and offer visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the park’s stunning natural landscapes.
Horseback Riding
The park provides various riding options to discover the Guadalupe Mountains. There are no horses or pack animals available for rent in or around the park, so you need to bring your own. It is essential to prepare thoroughly for all rides to ensure safety and enjoyment. N
eglecting proper equipment, lack of physical conditioning, or ignoring weather conditions can lead to a risky or uncomfortable experience. Showing respect for the environment while riding will support the park’s mission of preserving resources for present and future visitors. Trail riding commences at the corrals situated at Dog Canyon or the Frijole Ranch.
Places to stay in Guadalupe Mountains National Park
The Guadalupe Mountains National Park offers a range of accommodation options for visitors, from camping and backpacking to more traditional hotel and resort options.
Camping
For many RV travelers, Pine Springs Campground is a great place to stay while exploring the park.
On the northern side of the Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Dog Canyon Campground offers a more peaceful camping experience. It has four RV spots suitable for shorter rigs and horse trailers. While not as traditional as Pine Springs, it still has a bit of a camping vibe.
If staying inside the park isn’t a priority, free BLM desert camping is available about 30 minutes north on US 62 at Parks Ranch Campground or Mile 10 Dispersed Camping. These sites have limited space, so it’s wise to check availability beforehand. If they’re full, there’s a rest area fifteen minutes north of the park with restroom facilities.
For those who prefer RV parks with hookups, Camp Washington Ranch and White’s City RV Park are located 30 minutes north of New Mexico. These parks offer basic amenities like electric and water hookups, while White’s City RV Park also has sewer connections.
Hotel and Resort
For those who prefer a more traditional accommodation option, the Guadalupe Mountains National Park and the surrounding area offer a range of hotel and resort options.
Days Inn by Wyndham Carlsbad (2-star)
Carlsbad Days Inn features a 24-hour front desk and express check-in and check-out, to help make your stay more enjoyable. The property also boasts a pool and free breakfast. While visiting Carlsbad, you may want to try some burritos at one of the nearby restaurants, such as Danny’s Place, La Patrona, or Junior’s Burritos & Mexican Restaurant.
- Address: 3910 National Parks Hwy 119, Carlsbad, NM 88220-5916
- Price Range: From $100
Rodeway Inn
The Rodeway Inn is the nearest place to stay near Guadalupe Mountains National Park. They provide a free breakfast to kickstart your day of adventure. The hotel has recently renovated bathrooms and is wheelchair accessible. Guests can enjoy a discounted admission rate at Walnut Canyon Water Park through a partnership with Rodeway. Conveniently located, the Rodeway is close to various amenities such as Cactus Cafe, Whites City Grocery, Whites City Arcade, USPS Post Office, and Whites City Gift Shop, all within walking distance.
- Address: 6 Carlsbad Caverns Hwy, Whites City, NM 88268
- Price Range: From $100
Super 8 by Wyndham Carlsbad (2-star)
Super 8 by Wyndham Carlsbad provides guests with various room amenities such as a flat-screen TV, air conditioning, and complimentary wifi for internet access. The hotel also has a pool and offers free breakfast. Guests who drive to the property can take advantage of free parking facilities.
- Address: 3817 National Parks Hwy Route 62/180 South, Carlsbad, NM 88220-5952
- Price Range: From $78
Dining
Despite its remote location, the Guadalupe Mountains National Park and the surrounding area offer a range of dining options for visitors.
Within the park, the Pine Springs Visitor Center offers a small snack bar and vending machines, but for more substantial meals, visitors will need to venture outside the park’s boundaries.
Carniceria San Juan De Los Lagos
Delightful little spot, far from the touristy areas of Carlsbad catering to the cavern visitors. This unassuming butcher shop/bakery/restaurant is named after a well-known Mexican pilgrimage location. It is in the northern part of Carlsbad in a tiny strip mall. Most customers seemed to be locals.
- Address: 1200 Pate St, Carlsbad, NM 88220, United States
- Open time: 5:00 AM – 09:00 PM
- Prices range: $10 – $20
Danny’s Place
As a local favorite for over 20 years, Danny’s Place takes pride in serving traditional barbecue in a friendly and attentive manner. Danny’s Place offers affordable, casual dining in Carlsbad. Drop in with family and friends and enjoy good food and an inviting atmosphere. From succulent brisket and sausage to delectable beef sandwiches, Danny’s Place is a testament to the art of traditional barbecue.
- Address: 902 S Canal St, Carlsbad, NM 88220-5557
- Open time: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Prices range: $3 – $20
Lucky Bull Grill
The steaks, burgers, beer and wine… a perfect combination for a classic lunch or dinner. Lucky Bull Grill celebrates the art of dining with impeccable service in a casual, yet elegant atmosphere. For lunch, dinner or a private party, freshness and quality fulfill your highest expectations with a friendly, yet upscale, contemporary style.
- Address: 220 W Fox St, Carlsbad, NM 88220-5737
- Open time: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Prices range: $9 – $25
Planning Your Trip to Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Planning a trip to the Guadalupe Mountains National Park requires careful consideration of several key factors, including the best time to visit, transportation options and park regulations and fees.
Visiting Time
The best time to visit the Guadalupe Mountains National Park can vary depending on your preferences and interests. Here are some key considerations:
- Spring (March-May): This is a popular time to visit the park with moderate temperatures and the chance to see the park’s diverse wildflowers in bloom.
- Summer (June-August): Summers in the Guadalupe Mountains can be hot with temperatures often reaching the 90s Fahrenheit (32-37 Celsius). This can be a good time to explore the park’s higher elevations and cooler canyons.
- Fall (September-November): The fall season is a beautiful time to visit the Guadalupe Mountains, with the park’s bigtooth maples turning vibrant shades of red and orange.
- Winter (December-February): Winters in the Guadalupe Mountains can be cold, with the potential for snow and ice on the park’s trails. This can be a good time to visit for those seeking a more peaceful and quiet experience.
Spring Wildflowers at Guadalupe National Park
Guadalupe Mountains National Park in Summer
Guadalupe Mountains National Park in Autumn
Guadalupe Mountains National Park in Winter
Transportation
Access to the Guadalupe Mountains National Park can be a bit challenging, as the park is located in a remote area of West Texas.
The park is accessible by car, with several major highways leading to the park’s main entrances. The closest major airport is in El Paso, Texas, about 110 miles (177 km) from the park.
Several shuttle services operate between the park and nearby towns, such as El Paso and Carlsbad, New Mexico.
For those interested in a more immersive experience, the park’s extensive hiking and backpacking trails offer the opportunity to explore the park on foot.
Guadalupe Mountains National Park Map
Conclusion
The Guadalupe Mountains National Park is a truly unique and stunning natural wonder, offering visitors a chance to explore a diverse and rugged landscape that is unlike any other in the region. From the towering peaks of Guadalupe Peak to the lush and verdant canyons of McKittrick Canyon, the park offers a wide range of outdoor activities and experiences for visitors to enjoy. With its rich cultural history, diverse ecosystem, and stunning geological features, the park is a true treasure trove of natural wonders that is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.
Guadalupe Mountains National Park Photos
Q&A for Guadalupe Mountains National Park
The highest point in the Guadalupe Mountains National Park is Guadalupe Peak, which stands at 8,749 feet (2,667 meters) above sea level.
The best time to visit the Guadalupe Mountains National Park can vary depending on your interests and preferences. Spring and fall are generally considered the most pleasant seasons, with moderate temperatures and the chance to see the park’s diverse wildflowers and fall foliage. Summers can be hot, while winters can be cold and potentially snowy.
Yes, the Guadalupe Mountains National Park offers a range of backcountry and wilderness camping opportunities for visitors. The park’s extensive network of hiking trails, including the Guadalupe Ridge Trail and the Permian Reef Trail, offer access to remote and rugged areas of the park. Visitors must obtain a backcountry permit and follow all park regulations for wilderness camping.
The Guadalupe Mountains National Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including mule deer, black bears, mountain lions, porcupines, and a variety of bird species, such as the golden eagle and the peregrine falcon. The park’s varied ecosystems and habitats support a rich and diverse range of plant and animal life.
Yes, the Guadalupe Mountains National Park offers a range of guided tours and activities for visitors. This includes guided horseback riding tours, which allow visitors to explore the park’s trails and landscapes on the back of a horse. The park also offers interpretive programs and ranger-led hikes, which provide opportunities for visitors to learn more about the park’s natural and cultural history.