Guadalupe Mountains National Park
National Park · Texas

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Photo: CarlCarlsonIV · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Guadalupe Mountains protects a rugged range in West Texas built from a 260-million-year-old fossil reef. Highlights include Guadalupe Peak, the highest point in Texas, El Capitan, McKittrick Canyon's fall color and the Devil's Hall trail. There are no hotels, restaurants or gas in the park, so fill up first.

Good to know

Tickets
The park charges an entry fee per person, covered by the America the Beautiful pass. Check nps.gov for current rates.
Time needed
1 day for a big hike; 2 days to add McKittrick Canyon.
Best time
October to April. Late October to mid-November is best for fall color in McKittrick Canyon.
Getting there
Pine Springs visitor center is about 30 minutes from Salt Flat. El Paso International Airport is about 1 hour 45 minutes away by car.

Where to stay nearby

Gateway towns with hotels and food, close to the park entrances:
Salt Flat, Texas
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Guadalupe Mountains National Park questions

How hard is the Guadalupe Peak hike?

It is about 8.5 miles round trip with 3,000 feet of climbing and takes most people 6 to 8 hours. Start early and watch for strong winds.

Can I visit Guadalupe Mountains and Carlsbad Caverns together?

Yes. The two parks are about 45 minutes apart, so many people see both on one trip.

Where should I stay near Guadalupe Mountains?

Pine Springs Campground is inside the park. The nearest hotels are in Whites City and Carlsbad, New Mexico, or Van Horn, Texas.

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