The Ultimate Guide to Guadalupe Mountains National Park — Best Things To Do, See & Enjoy!

Nearly 250 million years ago, parts of Texas were covered by a salty inland sea. Eventually, the sea receded, leaving an ocean reef exposed to the sun’s heat.

Today, Guadalupe Mountains National Park is open for visitors to explore the lands that were once the ocean floor. This national park showcases the tallest mountains in Texas, historic buildings, great hiking trails, canyons, and dunes just waiting to be explored.

This park is one of America’s least visited parks due to its remote location. Each year an average of 200,000 guests come to see what Guadalupe Mountains National Park offers.

How To Get to Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Where Is Guadalupe Mountains National Park?

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is located in western Texas on the border of New Mexico and Texas. El Paso is the closest major city and is about 110 miles away. This national park stretches over 100 square miles of the Chihuahuan Desert, the vast wilderness, and many of the tallest mountain peaks in Texas.

Nearest Airports to Guadalupe Mountains National Park

There are several options of airports to choose from when traveling to Guadalupe Mountains National Park. The closest major airport is located in El Paso, but there are a couple of other options that aren’t too far away and might make a good choice for your trip. Let’s look at some of the most used airports for guests coming to Guadalupe Mountains National Park by plane.

Cavern City Air Terminal (CNM)

Cavern City Air Terminal is an option for visitors flying into Guadalupe Mountains National Park. This air terminal was used for U.S. military training during World War II.

Today, Cavern City Air Terminal is open for public use. The air terminal is in Carlsbad, New Mexico, just 30 minutes from the park. It’s served by Boutique Air and offers flights to Albuquerque and Dallas/Fort Worth.

While not used as often as other airports, Cavern City Air Terminal may provide just what you’re looking for as you travel to Guadalupe Mountains National Park.

El Paso International Airport (ELP)

El Paso International Airport is the most used airport for flying to Guadalupe Mountains National Park. This airport is an hour and a half from the park and is the closest major airport to the park.

The airport offers hundreds of daily flights to major domestic and international cities worldwide. It serves many popular airlines, including Alaska, Allegiant, American, Delta, Frontier, and Southwest.

Known as the Gateway to West Texas, Southern New Mexico, and Northern Mexico, El Paso International Airport is an excellent option for those flying in to visit Guadalupe Mountains National Park.

Midland International Air & Space Port (MAF)

Midland International Air & Space Port is another option for those planning a Guadalupe Mountains National Park trip. This airport is further from the park but has many points of interest and sights along the drive to the park. From Midland, it takes a little over 3 hours to arrive at the park.

This airport offers flights to and from many Texas cities and a few other major U.S. cities near Texas. This airport serves American, Southwest, and United. If you don’t mind the extra time driving to the park, Midland International Air & Space Port may work best for your Guadalupe Mountains National Park trip.

Driving to Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is located in West Texas. The main highways that bring visitors to the park include U.S. Highway 62/180, U.S. Highway 54, and New Mexico State Road 137. You can take a few different routes when driving to the park, depending on which area you’re coming from.

Taking a Train to Guadalupe Mountains National Park

A national park vacation by train is an incredible way to enjoy the journey and take the stress off your plate. El Paso is the closest Amtrak station to Guadalupe Mountains National Park. It’s just an hour and 45-minute drive from El Paso to the park.

Taking a Bus to Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Taking a Greyhound for your national park vacation is another way to enjoy the ride and reduce the stress of driving. El Paso is the closest Greyhound station to Guadalupe Mountains National Park. This is just 114 miles from the park’s entrance. Sit back, enjoy the journey, and let someone else do the bulk of the driving when using the services provided by Greyhound.

Getting Around Guadalupe Mountains National Park

The best way to get around Guadalupe Mountains National Park is by personal vehicle or on foot. This park is unique in that no road travels through the entire park.

Several scenic drives lead to different park areas, and many spur roads lead into the park. The National Park Service offers many interactive and printable maps on its website and in the visitor centers at the park.

Exploring the park on foot is another excellent way to get around Guadalupe Mountains National Park. Over 80 miles of hiking trails are available in this park. Pack up your hiking boots and hit the trails to discover the magic waiting to be explored at Guadalupe Mountains National Park.

What To See and Do in Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Guadalupe Mountains National Park has plenty of adventure and activity waiting for you. Whether you enjoy learning about history or exploring new places on foot, you will find precisely what your heart desires at this National Park. Let’s look at some of the top activities and places to visit at Guadalupe Mountain National Park.

Birding

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is a paradise for bird watchers. Nearly 300 species of birds have been documented in the park.

Some of the best places to see the birds in the park include Frijole Ranch, Smith Springs, McKittrick Canyon, and William’s Ranch. Some bird species in Guadalupe Mountains National Park include northern flickers, Lewis’ woodpeckers, greater roadrunners, and white-winged doves.

Bottom Line: Catching sight of one of the rare, fascinating birds that make their home in Guadalupe Mountains National Park is an unforgettable experience.

Frijole Ranch

The Frijole Ranch area is a mile and a half from the Pine Springs Visitor Center. This area showcases the true spirit of the American Southwest.

Today, this area hosts the Frijole Ranch History Museum, which teaches guests about the human history of the Guadalupe Mountains, from the early Native Americans to the early ranching community and eventually the establishment of the national park.

The museum is in the old ranch headquarters, and the area features a one-room schoolhouse and a springhouse. Frijole Ranch also has picnic tables and great views of the wildlife in the area.

This area of Guadalupe Mountains National Park should be at the top of your itinerary as it is an excellent place to learn the park’s history, see the historic buildings, and view the land and animals of the area.

Hiking

There are over 80 miles of hiking trails at Guadalupe Mountains National Park, making this park an excellent place for visitors who enjoy exploring nature on foot.

The hikes at this park range from easy walks to strenuous hikes through more difficult terrain or the canyons. Favorite hikes include the Salt Basin Dunes, Frijole Ranch, and Dog Canyon Hikes.

One of the most notorious hikes in Guadalupe Mountains National Park is the hike to “the top of Texas.” This trail leads to the summit of Guadalupe Peak and clocks in at 8.5 miles round trip with an elevation gain of 3,000 feet with a reward of sweeping views from the highest point in Texas.

Hiking the magnificent mountains of Guadalupe Mountains National Park is an incredible way to explore some of the highest peaks in Texas and get a birds-eye view of the land below.

Scenic Drives

Scenic drives are always necessary when visiting a national park, including Guadalupe Mountains National Park. But there are no roads that go through the park, only roads that provide access to the park and spurs that lead to attractions.

You can take a scenic drive to popular attractions, including Guadalupe Peak Viewpoint, El Capitan Viewpoint, Dog Canyon, and Five Points Vista. Any of the many scenic drives of Guadalupe Mountains National Park are ideal ways to see all the attractions in this remarkable park.

Visitor Centers

There are 3 visitor centers in Guadalupe Mountains National Park, including the Pine Springs Visitor Center, the Dog Canyon Ranger Station, and the McKittrick Canyon Visitor Center. Each of these locations offers various services for guests while visiting the park.

Pine Springs Visitor Center

Pine Springs Visitor Center is the main visitor center of Guadalupe Mountains National Park. This visitor center is the only one that is open daily. Pine Springs Visitor Center features a museum and a park store. Park guests can pay entry and camping fees, purchase souvenirs, and take a museum tour. There are also maps and brochures available at this center.

The Dog Canyon Ranger Station

The Dog Canyon Ranger station is available at different times during the year. Volunteers and park staff man it. This is another place where visitors can get brochures and maps and ask questions to the rangers posted in the area.

The McKittrick Canyon Visitor Center

The McKittrick Canyon Visitor Center is staffed during the busy seasons at the mouth of McKittrick Canyon. This visitor center has outdoor exhibits and videos where guests can learn more about Guadalupe Mountains National Park. Visitors are also able to obtain brochures and maps at this visitor center.

Bottom Line: Be sure to plan a stop at least one of the excellent visitor centers when visiting Guadalupe Mountains National Park for information, exhibits, souvenirs, and more.

Best Times To Visit Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is a remote national park that is one of America’s least-visited parks. There are never too many crowds, and the park is enjoyable most of the year.

Some times to visit are better than others, especially if you have a particular event or activity you want to participate in. Discover the best times to visit Guadalupe Mountains National Park.

Best Time To Visit Guadalupe Mountains National Park for Fall Colors

If your favorite season is fall, plan a fall trip to experience the vibrant colors of fall in Guadalupe Mountains National Park. The best month for a fall trip is late October. The Southwest is simply beautiful in the fall. During October, the colors are vibrant, and the temperatures are cool and brisk.

Best Time To Visit Guadalupe Mountains National Park To Avoid the Crowds

Many people desire a solitary visit to Guadalupe Mountains National Park. A trip in late August is the best time to visit this national park to avoid crowds. Enjoying the park at your own pace without crowds is an excellent way to visit Guadalupe Mountains National Park.

Best Time To Visit Guadalupe Mountains National Park for Camping

Early October is the best time for camping in Guadalupe Mountains National Park. The weather at this time of year is optimal, and the wind isn’t as high gear as it usually is at other times. Not only is the weather great in October, but it is also an excellent time to see the fall colors in the park.

Cheapest Time To Visit Guadalupe Mountains National Park

If you want to visit Guadalupe Mountains National Park and save money simultaneously, the best time to visit is mid to late September. Lodging rates are typically lower in September, which is one of the best times to visit Guadalupe Mountains National Park.

On top of excellent weather and fewer crowds, this month may also give you a sneak peek of the fall colors depending on how late you come.

Annual Events Near Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is a remote park that doesn’t host events in the park other than free entry days, including National Park Week, Veterans Day, and National Public Lands Day. There are exciting events that take place near the park in some of the surrounding towns.

Balzano Family Vineyard Wine Run

The Balzano Family Vineyard Wine Run is a 5K event in March in Carlsbad, New Mexico. This new event offers a 5K race through the Balzano Family Vineyard. The course for this race offers gorgeous views through the vineyards and tastings of locally-produced wines. This event is perfect for those who love running, wine, or both.

Sun City Craft Beer Festival

Beer enthusiasts will love to travel just down the road to El Paso for the Sun City Craft Beer Festival.

The Sun City Craft Beer Festival takes place each May and features over 150 craft beers for sampling and purchase. There are also high-quality liquors and fine wines to enjoy at this festival. On top of excellent beverages, there is also live music, a game zone, and food vendors galore. This indoor and outdoor event brings returning visitors year after year.

Where To Stay in Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Guadalupe Mountains National Park offers camping as the only lodging option in the park boundaries. If camping isn’t your cup of tea, several cities and towns aren’t far from the park. Look at the accommodation options in and near Guadalupe Mountains National Park.

Inside the Park

There are no formal lodging facilities at Guadalupe Mountains National Park; the only option for those wanting to stay in the park is to camp at one of the developed campgrounds. Camping is an incredible way to experience the beauty and serenity of the park. Let’s explore the 2 campgrounds at Guadalupe Mountains National Park.

Dog Canyon Campground

Dog Canyon Campground is located 2 hours from the Pine Springs region of Guadalupe Mountains National Park. This campground comprises 9 individual tent campsites, 4 RV sites, and a group site that can accommodate 10 to 20 guests.

The campground features drinking water and flush toilets. It’s situated at 6,300 feet in elevation. The only permitted way to cook is by use of a cook stove, as fires of any kind are prohibited.

Pine Springs Campground

Pine Springs Campground is another developed campground in Guadalupe Mountains National Park. This campground consists of 20 tent campsites, 13 RV sites, and 2 group sites that accommodate 10 to 20 guests.

Drinking water and toilets are available at this campground. Fires of any kind are prohibited at this campground. The only option for cooking at Pine Springs Campground is a cooking stove.

Wilderness Camping

Wilderness camping is another option for adventurers who want a more primitive camping experience. A permit must be obtained at the Pine Springs Visitor Center or online for those who choose to camp in the wilderness.

These campsites require a minimum of a 3-mile hike, and visitors must be prepared for a 2,000 feet elevation gain and carry their water to the sites. Wilderness camping at Guadalupe Mountains National Park provides a rustic experience in the great outdoors that will surely be remembered for years.

Towns Near Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is a remote national park with lodging limited to camping at one of the 2 developed campgrounds inside the park boundaries.

For visitors seeking more traditional accommodations, several towns near the park are great places to set up a base camp during your national park vacation. Let’s see what Guadalupe Mountains National Park’s surrounding towns offer.

Carlsbad, New Mexico

Carlsbad is just a 45-minute drive from Guadalupe Mountains National Park. This town was once called the Pearl of the Pecos and has abundant opportunities for visitors seeking adventure, culture, and more.

The town has a variety of accommodation options available. From budget-friendly inns and motels to luxury hotels with superior amenities, you can find exactly what your heart desires in this town.

A food lover’s dream come true, there are over 50 locally-owned restaurants and over a dozen chain restaurants in Carlsbad. There are dozens of authentic Mexican eateries, Asian fusion restaurants, barbecue joints, and pizza parlors lining the streets of Carlsbad. Your hardest decision will be narrowing down your restaurant choices during your stay.

Carlsbad is bursting with opportunities for adventure. There are trails for hiking and biking, zoos, gardens, golf, and museums to take advantage of. A major draw to this town is Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Guests making this town their home base have an excellent opportunity to explore the natural wonder of the caves at this park.

Bottom Line: With fantastic lodging options, remarkable restaurants, and adventure around every corner, Carlsbad makes an excellent choice for those wanting to stay near Guadalupe Mountains National Park.

Dell City, Texas

Dell City is located 43 miles from Guadalupe Mountains National Park and is the closest option for staying near the park. It’s a small farming town that is perfect for retreating to during your Guadalupe Mountains National Park vacation.

The town has a variety of options for lodging, but most options are private rentals and Airbnbs. Several locally-owned restaurants serve juicy burgers and authentic Mexican cuisine in this small town.

Since Dell City is in the foothills of the Guadalupe Mountains, you can expect lots of adventure when staying in this city. This city has hiking trails, historic sites, canyons, mountains, and waterfalls to explore.

If you are hoping for a small quiet town to retreat to during your visit to Guadalupe Mountains National Park, you may find precisely what you are looking for in Dell City.

El Paso, Texas

El Paso is another option for a home away from home during a Guadalupe Mountains National Park trip. While this is one of the furthest options from the park, there is plenty to see and do in El Paso, making the trip worthwhile.

The city is an hour and 45 minutes from Guadalupe Mountains National Park. El Paso thrives with activity, entertainment, fantastic restaurants, and incredible lodging options. There is a multitude of options for accommodations — from budget motels to luxury resorts and from private rentals to chic downtown hotels, you can find the perfect choice in El Paso.

Food enthusiasts love staying in El Paso, as the dining experiences are unforgettable. Some top-ranked restaurants serve authentic Mexican, Greek, Mediterranean, and many more restaurants featuring worldwide cuisine.

El Paso has so much to experience for recreation. There are art museums, the El Paso Zoo and Botanical Gardens, and buildings with a rich history. This Texan city is bursting with fun and excitement.

Whites City, New Mexico

Whites City is only 28 minutes from Guadalupe Mountains National Park. This small city is an excellent choice for those who want a quiet stay near the park.

Whites City only has a few options for lodging and dining. It is close to other cities with more to offer. This quiet city is perfect for those who want a simple stay near Guadalupe Mountains National Park and are okay with commuting to other cities for food and entertainment.

Where To Eat Near Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Guadalupe Mountains National Park has no dining options inside the park. The best choice for dining while visiting this national park is to pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it at one of the many sites during your exploration.

However, if you prefer to grab something from a restaurant, you are in luck because there are a few great options restaurants near Guadalupe Mountains National Park.

Lucky Bull

The Lucky Bull is a restaurant in Carlsbad, approximately 50 miles from Guadalupe Mountains National Park.

This American bar serves dishes with a southwestern flair, including top-quality hand-cut steaks, juicy burgers, gourmet nachos, shrimp, and grits. The tap room also serves a wide selection of local brews.

Lucky Bull is open every weekday for lunch and dinner. The restaurant also hosts live music, karaoke nights, and trivia nights. Drop by Lucky Bull while visiting Guadalupe Mountains National Park for great food and entertainment.

Red Chimney Bar-B-Que

Red Chimney Bar-B-Que is a great barbecue joint in Carlsbad, about 50 minutes from Guadalupe Mountains National Park.

This restaurant has been smoking meats since 1954. This restaurant serves a delicious menu featuring smoked brisket, charbroiled burgers, and classic sides like hush puppies, french fries, and mac and cheese. All the sauces, sides, dishes, and desserts at Red Chimney Bar-B-Cue are homemade daily. The sourdough cobbler is one of their most famous menu items.

Head to this restaurant when you need to refuel after visiting Guadalupe Mountains National Park. Red Chimney Bar-B-Que will satisfy your craving for excellent food and treat you with superb customer service.

Roque Burrito’s and Restaurant

Roque Burrito’s and Restaurant is an authentic Mexican restaurant in Carlsbad. This restaurant is approximately 50 miles from Guadalupe Mountains National Park.

This 5-star restaurant features a delightful menu of Mexican and southwestern dishes. Customers rave about the green chile pork, pork rib fajitas, and enchiladas with green and red sauces.

Roque Burrito’s and Restaurant is open daily for breakfast and lunch, making it an excellent option for those needing to fuel up before, during, or after their excursions at Guadalupe Mountains National Park.

The Trinity Hotel Restaurant

The Trinity Hotel Restaurant is 49 miles from Guadalupe Mountains National Park in Carlsbad. Housed in a historic building built in 1892, The Trinity Hotel Restaurant’s location was originally First National Bank.

This restaurant is a great place to take a break from outdoor adventures and enjoy a nice meal and a glass of wine. You’ll find a lovely menu of Italian and American dishes, fine wines, and desserts. Popular menu items include the Trinity tortellini, chicken bolloco, and ribeye.

The restaurant is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and features an espresso bar every morning.

Bottom Line: When you need a break from all the outdoor fun at Guadalupe Mountains National Park, throw on your best dress or suit and enjoy fine dining at The Trinity Hotel Restaurant.

Yellowbrix Restaurant

Yellowbrix Restaurant is located in Carlsbad, 50 minutes from Guadalupe Mountains National Park. This restaurant is open daily for lunch and dinner.

Yellowbrix features an impressive menu of made-to-order dishes using the highest quality ingredients. This restaurant is loved by locals and tourists alike, and favorite dishes include the green chile cheeseburger, the Cajun bacon and chicken farfalla, and the chicken cordon bleu.

Finishing off a meal at Yellowbrix with a slice of New York cheesecake and a glass of fine wine is the perfect ending to a day spent at Guadalupe Mountains National Park.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park Facts

1. Guadalupe Mountains Took Nearly 50 Years To Become a National Park

As early as 1924, there were hopes to declare the Guadalupe Mountains a national monument or park. Many attempts were made to have this established as a national park. In 1966, Congress authorized the area as a national park. Still, the National Park Service didn’t officially recognize it as a national park until 1972.

2. Indigenous People Inhabited the Guadalupe Mountains Until the Mid-1800s

The Mescalero Apache were the first indigenous people that inhabited the Guadalupe Mountains. This nomadic tribe would hunt and gather in the area. In the mid-1800s, the Mescalero Apache were driven out of the area when American settlers began coming to the site.

3. Guadalupe Mountains National Park Features the Highest Texas Peak

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is home to the highest peak in Texas, Guadalupe Peak. This mountain reaches an elevation of 8,751 feet. Guadalupe Mountains National Park has a total of 4 peaks, the highest in the state. These other mountains include Bush Mountain, Shumard Peak, and Bartlett Peak.

4. There Were Rumors of Gold Mines in the Guadalupe Mountains

As early as the 1600s, rumors about gold mines in the Guadalupe Mountains began to spread. Many men have searched for this gold, some unsuccessful, and some supposedly found gold but never shared where it was found.

5. Guadalupe Mountains National Park Is Experiencing Record High Visitation

In 2021, Guadalupe Mountains National Park had a record number of visitors. There were 243,000 visitors in 2022, surpassing 2019 and 2017.

6. Portions of a Marine Fossil Reef Are Exposed

Guadalupe Mountains National Park preserves one of the best examples of a marine fossil reef on earth. This area was covered by the sea 265 million years ago, and after the sea evaporated, vast portions of a massive reef were exposed. These areas are still observed and studied by geologists and scientists today.

7. Paraplegic Climbers Reached the Top of Guadalupe Peak

In 1982, 3 climbers spent 5 days climbing to the top of Guadalupe Peak. The remarkable part of this is that the climbers were all paraplegic. These climbers could use their wheelchairs for some of the journey but crawled the last bit of the trip. This incredible feat is one to remember for ages.

8. You Can View Ship on the Desert in the Park

Wallace Pratt was a successful businessman in Texas. One of his associates introduced Pratt to Guadalupe Mountains National Park in 1921. He bought land for a ranch property in the McKittrick Canyon area. He had cattle on this land and built a stone cabin for his summer home with his wife.

Pratt remarried when his first wife died and began building another house near the canyon which was named Ship on the Desert. In 2018, the National Trust for Historic Preservation listed the home as one of America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places. While the park doesn’t allow entry into the home, visitors can see this incredible sight from a distance when visiting Guadalupe Mountains National Park.

9. The Park Features Animals Galore

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is home to an abundance of animals. Over 60 species of mammals, 289 species of birds, and 55 types of reptiles have been seen and documented in this National Park.

Often, people believe there wouldn’t be a lot of animals in this desert environment. However, the desert has a wide variety of animals that are present. Some animals in the park include kit foxes, coyotes, bobcats, cougars, Texas banded geckos, bats, and snakes. Most desert animals are nocturnal and sleep during the daytime.

10. Many Different Ecosystems Are Within Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Guadalupe Mountains National Park has several different ecosystems found within the park. These ecosystems include the rocky canyons, the Chihuahuan Desert, woodlands growing near lush streams, and mountaintop forests.

11. Guadalupe’s Salt Flats Date Back to the Ice Age

Another striking feature of Guadalupe Mountains National Park is the salt flats inside the park property. The salt flats in Guadalupe Mountains National Park are part of an ancient lake that thrived 1.8 million years ago. Once the lake dried up after the Ice Age, the salt deposits were left behind. Visitors enjoy seeing the salt flats while visiting the Guadalupe Mountains.

12. The Salt Basin Dunes Are Guadalupe Mountains National Park’s Lowest Point

The lowest elevation point in Guadalupe Mountains National Park is in the salt basin dunes. This area measures 3,640 feet in elevation.

13. Buffalo Soldiers Were the First Rangers of Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Buffalo Soldiers are considered the first rangers in what eventually became the National Park Service. Buffalo Soldiers were African American men who served on the western frontier after the Civil War.

The main goal of the Buffalo Soldiers was to rebuild the country once the Civil War concluded. They were ordered to stop Indian raids in the area, and they drove out the land’s original inhabitants.

Later, the duties of the Buffalo Soldiers included protecting the land and animals in their assigned areas from timber thieves, poachers, illegal grazing, and wildfires. Sadly, there were many bloody conflicts between the Mescalero Apache and the Buffalo Soldiers, and the Mescalero Apache were driven out of the land.

Final Thoughts

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is bursting with adventure, excitement, and education. There’s something for everyone to enjoy at this magnificent park. Whether you seek a vacation filled with thrilling experiences or quiet moments appreciating nature, you will find precisely what you are looking for at Guadalupe Mountains National Park.