10 Things to Do in Guadalupe Mountains National Park, United States
Nestled in the Chihuahuan Desert of West Texas, Guadalupe Mountains National Park is an incredible destination for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking to camping to scenic drives, the park offers a variety of activities that can be enjoyed by all ages. Here are 10 of the best things to do in Guadalupe Mountains National Park.
1. Hike Guadalupe Peak
Guadalupe Peak is the highest point in Texas and one of the most popular hikes in the park. The 8.4-mile round trip trail is considered to be strenuous and passes through a variety of terrain, including pinyon-juniper woodlands, canyons, and meadows. At the summit, hikers will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
2. Explore the McKittrick Canyon Trail
The McKittrick Canyon Trail is a 6-mile round trip trail that is considered to be moderate in difficulty. Along the way, hikers will be treated to a variety of landscapes, including limestone cliffs, cacti, and juniper trees. The trail also passes by the ruins of a homestead, as well as a variety of wildlife.
3. Visit the Frijole Ranch
The Frijole Ranch is a historic site located in the park that was once the home of ranchers and cowboys. Today, the ranch is open to visitors who can explore the ruins of the original buildings, as well as the barns and corrals. The ranch also offers a variety of interpretive programs that provide a glimpse into the life of the ranch’s former inhabitants.
4. Take a Scenic Drive
The park is home to a variety of scenic drives, including the Guadalupe Peak Scenic Drive, which is a 10-mile loop that passes through the park’s rugged terrain. The drive provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains, as well as a variety of wildlife.
5. Camp at Pine Springs Campground
Pine Springs Campground is the only developed campground in the park and offers a variety of sites for tent and RV camping. The campground is located near the Pine Springs Visitor Center and is open year-round.
6. Explore the Williams Ranch
The Williams Ranch is a historic site located in the park that was once the home of a family of ranchers. Today, the ranch is open to visitors who can explore the ruins of the original buildings, as well as the barns and corrals. The ranch also offers a variety of interpretive programs that provide a glimpse into the life of the ranch’s former inhabitants.
7. Take a Hike to the Devil’s Hall
The Devil’s Hall Trail is a 4.2-mile round trip trail that passes through a variety of terrain, including canyons, meadows, and limestone cliffs. The trail culminates at the Devil’s Hall, a narrow canyon with towering walls.
8. Visit the Frijole Ranch Museum
The Frijole Ranch Museum is a museum located in the park that houses a variety of artifacts from the area’s past. The museum is open year-round and provides visitors with a unique glimpse into the history of the park.
9. Take a Wildlife Tour
Guadalupe Mountains National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, bighorn sheep, and a variety of birds. The park offers a variety of wildlife tours that allow visitors to explore the park’s diverse wildlife.
10. Go Stargazing
Guadalupe Mountains National Park is one of the best places in the country for stargazing. The park is located far away from light pollution, providing visitors with an incredible view of the night sky. The park also offers a variety of stargazing programs that provide visitors with an in-depth look at the night sky.
No matter what type of outdoor activity you enjoy, Guadalupe Mountains National Park has something for everyone. From hiking to camping to wildlife tours, the park offers a variety of activities that can be enjoyed by all ages. So, the next time you’re looking for a unique outdoor adventure, consider visiting Guadalupe Mountains National Park.