One Of Texas' Most Breathtaking Mountain Getaways Is Somehow One Of The Least-Crowded National Parks

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With almost 100 state and national parks in Texas, visitors are spoiled for choice, yet one massive national park remains comparatively unexplored, welcoming approximately 220,000 visitors per year. Tucked away in the far western corner of the Lone Star State, Guadalupe Mountains National Park encompasses an astounding 86,416 acres. Here, rock formations rise over the Chihuahuan Desert's rugged plateaus, and 80 miles of backcountry trails wind deep into the Guadalupe Mountains. It's a hiker's paradise where geological formations take center stage, and marveling at the raw scenery is the number one activity.

200 million years ago, an extensive tropical reef covered the area now occupied by the park. Over time, the seawater evaporated and the land rose, creating the imposing Guadalupe Mountains. It's not the kind of place you'd stumble upon. Instead, a trip to Guadalupe Mountains National Park takes planning and the understanding that you won't be able to see everything. Start at the Frijole Ranch Museum, where you'll gain valuable insight about the American West. Next, head to the Pine Springs Visitor Center to check with the rangers about trail conditions. This is especially important during the summer months when flash floods sweep through the lowlands. 

Both the visitor center and the ranch are easily accessible from U.S. Route 62, about 110 miles east of El Paso, home to the closest major airport — El Paso International Airport (ELP). There's no convenient public transportation to the park; however, scenic vista points along U.S. Route 62 make self-driving an enjoyable option.

The Guadalupe Mountains trails wind through a surprisingly diverse landscape, including arid desert, rippling salt basin dunes, mountains topped with ponderosa pines, and verdant woodlands home to hardwoods. However, one of Texas' best-kept secrets is the awe-inspiring hike to its tallest point, Guadalupe Peak. From the summit at 8,751 feet, the views are utterly incredible — you can see for up to 100 miles — but you need to be prepared.

From the Guadalupe Peak trailhead near the Pine Spring Visitor Center, it's a 4.2-mile trip (one way) to the top, with 3,000 feet of rocky elevation gain. Starting in the early morning, budget between six and eight hours on the trail. You'll want to bring lightweight hiking poles like the TrailBuddy Trekking Poles, comfortable hiking boots with grippy tread, at least one gallon of water, and equipment you've used before instead of untested new gear for taking a hike on vacation. 

Another Guadalupe Mountains classic is the 2.1-mile (one way) trail to Devil's Hall, a slot canyon filled with ash and maple trees. Fall is a beautiful time to visit so you can take in the hardwoods as they change colors. Also, during this time, the chance of flooding in the canyon is extremely low. Alternatively, enjoy the beginner-friendly 2.3-mile loop from the shady oasis of Frijole Ranch to the forested banks of Smith Spring. Or, circle the base of towering El Capitan on the 9.4-mile trail with sweeping views.

Situated at an elevation of 3,640 feet, the Salt Basin Dunes are lower than other points in the park and often overlooked, yet they create an ethereal scene. Over eons, streams deposited salt and gypsum (a calcium sulfate mineral with a white color), filling the basin with 2,000 acres of pristine white dunes. The best time to visit is in late fall, so as to avoid the dangerously hot summer months and the windy winter and spring. The dunes are strictly a day-use area; however, there are three developed campgrounds in the park and 10 wilderness campgrounds for backpackers.

The Pine Springs Campground is the most accessible option, due to its location near the visitor center and many popular trailheads. Although it doesn't offer showers, visitors can choose from 20 gravel-topped tent sites and 13 paved RV sites with flush toilets, drinking water, and desert scenery. Tucked away on the far north side of the park, the Dog Canyon Campground offers a more secluded experience in a wooded setting. Here, solitude reigns, and the night sky is utterly mesmerizing. For ultimate Milky Way views, check the sky chart and book your stay during a new moon. Finally, Frijole Horse Corral Campground is specifically designed for equestrian visitors. If this massive park is too much to take on, visit this underrated Texas state park that's a mini Guadalupe Mountains.