Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Situated in the Chihuahuan Desert of west Texas, Guadalupe Mountains National Park is home to the world’s largest and finest example of a fossilized reef. It was this geological feature that prompted the U.S. government to grant the national park status to this region.

Though this Permian limestone formation is indeed a geological wonder, Guadalupe Mountains National Park boasts much more. This bio-diverse land features mountains, canyons, and desert, and in the fall, the colors of the trees in portions of the park resemble those seen on a New England foliage tour.  

There are several features in the park that are must-sees for all visitors. Amazing McKittrick Canyon, known for its fall colors, is considered “the most beautiful spot in Texas” and should be a part of any visit to Guadalupe Mountains National Park. Dog Canyon, at 6,300-feet, is a wonderful place for hiking and birding and, because of its remoteness, offers few crowds. The Frijole Ranch Museum outlines the rich history of the region and can be enjoyed by all ages.

Hikers love the 80 miles of trails that run through the park and are accessible all year long. Hiking provides the opportunity to explore the hundreds of species of plants and animals that inhabit the park. The trails are also popular with birdwatchers and nature photographers. Some trails take you up to Guadalupe Peak, considered the “top of Texas.” Sixty percent of the trails are open to horseback riders but no horses are available for hire in the park. Always stay on the trails and carry a trail map, available at the visitor center.

There are two campgrounds located inside the park – Dog Canyon, which is at a high elevation and more secluded; and Pine Springs, equipped with water, a service sink, pay phones, and handicapped accessible restrooms. They are both booked on a first come, first served basis. Backcountry camping is permitted year round but requires a permit, obtainable from the Dog Canyon ranger station or the main visitor center.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is located in far West Texas on U.S. Highway 62/180. The driving distance is 110 miles east of El Paso, Texas, or 56 miles southwest of Carlsbad, New Mexico. Visitors traveling to Dog Canyon, on the park's north side, can access the area via New Mexico State Road 137. There are no paved driving roads within the park so exploration must be done on foot.

Summers in Guadalupe are very hot and snow or freezing rain is not unusual in the winter and early spring. By far, the best time to visit is in late spring and throughout the fall, when the moderate temperatures make it comfortable to explore on foot. Nights are cool so it’s important to bring outerwear for any evening walks in the park.

The Headquarters Visitors Center is located at Pine Springs and is open 8 am to 4:30 pm MST and until 6 pm during Daylight Savings Time.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park
400 Pine Canyon Road
Salt Flat, Texas 79847

Headquarters Visitor Center (Pine Springs)
(915) 828-3251

Dog Canyon Ranger Station
(505) 981-2418