By: Ashlee Ginn
Straddling the border of Texas and New Mexico is a diverse ecosystem known as the Guadalupe Mountains. This mountain range is unique as it’s the largest exposed fossil reef in America. Step into the park and feel like you’ve gone back in time – discover fossils in the rock, find hidden desert springs, and summit Texas’ highest peak. It’s truly an underrated stop if you’re exploring the West.
If you are a fan of towering jagged mountains, crisp desert air, blooming cacti, and wide open plains, then Guadalupe is for you! Here are my tips for visiting this mountainous escape: when to visit, where to camp, and what to do.
Getting There
You can reach Guadalupe Mountains from the West, coming from El Paso, and the East, coming from Carlsbad. In fact, many people link up National Parks and visit Carlsbad Caverns in the same weekend, or even the same day! (Be sure to check out my blog on Carlsbad Caverns too).
From El Paso, you’ll take Hwy 62 east all the way to the Park exit. Be aware that this area is known for having high winds in the spring and summer that funnel through the pass – sometimes with gusts reaching 150 mph. This is no joke if you’re driving a big RV! Be sure to check the forecast.
From Carlsbad, you’ll take Hwy 62 west leaving Carlsbad, cross over the Texas border and exit at the Park.
Best Time to Visit
We visited in March and it was moderate weather - high 60s-70s during the day, with cooler evenings after the sun sets. Down in the basin, it can be dry and hot, and up on the mountains, it can be cold and windy – be sure to prepare by packing multiple layers, including a fleece jacket and insulated down layer.
Best Places to Camp
Pine Springs Campground is near the park entrance and gives you easy access to some of the most popular hiking trails (including Guadalupe Peak). The 13 RV spots have no hookups so prepare accordingly, and there are 20 tent sites, with a bathroom in the parking lot. We paid $20 per night and were grateful for a quiet, level place to camp in the RV for the night. It’s best to book a spot early since they do book up during peak season.
Dog Canyon Campground is located in the north side of the park, about a 2 hour drive from Pine Springs, and home to 4 RV sites and 9 tent sites. This area is a bit harder to get to and more remote.
We also stayed at a boondocking site about 30 minutes east of the park called Sunset Reef – perfect for a free overnight if you’re linking up Guadalupe and Carlsbad Caverns. It’s a large lot with pit toilets and level parking just a bit off the highway.
Entering the National Park
There is no entrance booth to Guadalupe Mountains National Park, so they abide by the honor system. You can stop into the Visitor Center to pay and get your pass.
We have an America The Beautiful National Parks Pass that gives you access to all interagency parks in the U.S. This pass pays for itself if you plan on visiting a National Park 2-3 times a year!
Hikes and Things to Do
To me, the desert is SO fun to explore because you really can't go wrong. There are tons of hiking trails – we stayed for one full day in the park and were able to pack a lot in. I've saved all our hikes to this All Trails folder so you can check out more details on them there!
Devil’s Hall: This moderate 4-mile loop wanders through the canyon and provides stunning views of the towering mountains overhead. This makes for a great sunrise or sunset hike too.
Manzanita & Smith Spring Loop: A 2.5 mile loop, this hike is easy-moderate and leads you to two desert springs. Manzanita Spring is found on the plain and Smith Spring is tucked away in the canyon, trickling ever so peacefully. Enjoy the tranquility and have a picnic by the spring.
The Pinery: Just outside of the Visitor Center, this is an easy 1 mile walk on a paved trail to take in the desert scenery.
Guadalupe Peak: Summit the tallest peak in Texas! At 8,718 feet, this peak towers over the surrounding plains. The 8-mile hike is rated hard and takes you up steep switchbacks, over passes, and through varying terrain. Be prepared for wind and changing conditions, but be rewarded with the most amazing views. You can also book an overnight permit to camp near the summit!
A Desert, Alpine, Canyon Delight
Guadalupe Mountains is a simple and beautiful stop when touring the west. You can choose to explore it in half a day or immerse yourself in the backcountry on a multi-day trip. However you choose to explore, remember to pack out what you pack in, respect the land, and have fun!
Ashlee Ginn is a contributing writer for Park Life. She travels the country with her husband in their 1999 Jayco Designer motorhome, and is a big lover of the outdoors. Whether she’s rock climbing, cycling, or cold plunging in a river, she finds joy in discovering new places, immersing herself in nature, and inspiring others to pursue their own adventure. Follow her journey on Instagram: @ashleemakanalani.