Guadalupe Mountains National Park is a great place for hiking. Located in Texas, it’s a bit out of the way, but don’t let that deter you. The remoteness can be a huge benefit as fewer people make it out here. Less than 250,000 people make it out here annually. Compare that to the 4 million who visit Rocky Mountain National Park, and the difference is staggering.
Throughout the park, you’ll find over 80 miles of hiking trails. Some are more popular than others (and for good reason!), but you’ll have the chance to find solitude out here.
If you’re looking for epic hikes with fewer crowds, consider a visit to Guadalupe Mountains.
What to Do at Guadalupe Mountains National Park
The Best Things to Do at Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Yes, Guadalupe Mountains National Park is a hiker’s paradise, but there’s hikes for all abilities spread across the various areas of this park. In this guide, learn about the best things to do across all these areas.
Guadalupe Peak
How to Hike to Guadalupe Peak – The Top of Texas
One of the most popular hikes at Guadalupe Mountains National Park is Guadalupe Peak. This is the highest point in Texas and while it’s an epic hike, it’s difficult and shouldn’t be taken lightly. Read all about it and decide if it is a hike for you.
Featured Itineraries
A Five Day New Mexico National Park Road Trip (+ Texas)
Over the course of a long weekend, you can cross three national parks off your list. Start in New Mexico and visit White Sands and Carlsbad Caverns National Parks before heading to the hiking paradise of Guadalupe Mountains National Park.
When To Visit Guadalupe Mountains
Summers can be uncomfortably hot, plus you’ll be weighed down carrying extra water. Winters can be cold and snow is possible, particularly at the higher elevations. This makes spring and fall are great times to visit.
I visited in mid November and while chilly in the morning, it ended up being the perfect temperature for hiking in the park.
Where to Stay at Guadalupe Mountains
Guadalupe Mountains National Park is kind of in the middle of nowhere. That works out well because there’s fewer visitors to this park. The closest town is Carlsbad, which is actually located across the state line in New Mexico. There are plenty of hotel and restaurant options here. From Carlsbad, NM, it’s a 45 to 60 minute drive (depending on where you stay in Carlsbad).
Nearby
Guadalupe Mountains National Park is pretty isolated, but you’re very close to New Mexico, especially Carlsbad Caverns National Park.
More US National Parks
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is just one of 63 national parks across the United States. Learn more about these parks and start planning your perfect trip with my US National Parks Travel Guide.