Millions of years ago during the Permian Period Guadalupe Mountains National Park was a coral reef under the sea. Today, it is one of the most well preserved fossil reefs in the world and for your every day visitor, a hikers paradise. The park encompasses expanses of Chihuahuan desert, steep walled canyons, endemic flora, and the four highest peaks in Texas. There are multiple access points and plenty of trails ranging in difficulty to experience the wonder of the park.
Pine Springs Trailhead
+Guadalupe Peak Trail
A difficult and rewarding 8.4 miles round trip hike that gains 2,930’ in elevation to reach the tallest point in Texas.
Starting off with the a cheery disposition, a group of meadowlarks worked as greeters on the trail.
A black-tailed buck made his way through the shrubbery.
Climbing begins quickly with constantly magnificent and ever changing views.
The vast landscape calls for a pause all too often.
Dusty switchbacks turn into a rock face so bright, make sure to bring some shades.
A splash of deep green tumbles down the side of a hill.
After reaching a certain elevation during the January visit, some snow adorned the shady side of the path.
Fiery grasses sway boldly in the sun.
With hills blocking the true peak, be weary of a false summit!
Increasingly gorgeous valleys appear around every bend as you draw closer and closer.
Each more jaw dropping than the last.
As if the scenery wasn’t simply enough, upon reaching the summit there is a monument for your triumph.
Strange and beautiful 1,000’ El Capitan cliff is surely the centerpiece, once a submerged reef filled with animal skeletons and plant fossils.
+Devils Hall Trail
A moderate hike 4.2 miles round trip gaining 400’ of elevation into an obscure geological formation. Initially the trail is well maintained, take in the exquisite views of the surroundings.
After a mile the rocky wash becomes the path to follow, scrambling over boulders escalating in size.
Western blue birds add a flair of exotic color against a desert picture and deer clamber around the stones.
In the distance spot the gateway to the hall.
The wash brings you beneath the towering canyon walls in an amphitheater like setting.
As if this wasn’t a destination all its own, persevere onward.
A tight squeeze through the narrow and jagged hall is the grand finale.
Smith & Manzanita Springs Trailhead
+Smith & Manzanita Springs Loop
An easy 2.3 miles roundtrip loop gaining 180’ elevation, or an even easier paved .6 mile out and back to the spring itself.
There are dramatic views in the foothills of the mountains.
Constantly changing colors.
Perhaps my favorite tree in the entire park.
Water in the desert is a rare and precious commodity.
The streams, springs, and seeps of the park attract many animals, like this scrub jay.
Sit on a bench and watch the magic unfold in this unique portion of the national park.
Thanks so much Vanessa!
Hi Julie, this guide is awesome, I enjoyed seeing your pictures.