Hike Guadalupe Peak Trail

The Hike

This nearly 8.2-mile out-and-back hike starts almost a mile above sea level and has more than 2,800 feet of elevation gain. The beginning 1.5 miles include a lot of switchbacks, and hikers quickly gain elevation. The second part of the trail up the North-facing slope is shady as it goes through Pinion Pine, South-Western White Pine, and Douglas fir trees. 

Keep going for amazing views of El Capitan to the South. Since this is the highest point in Texas, the summit views are incredible - you can see the surrounding mountains rising out of the desert! You will need to climb a rock scramble on your hands and feet to reach the top.

When is the best time to hike?
Some people hike Guadalupe Peak in six to eight hours. Plan to start early in the morning to reach the summit before mid-day to avoid heat and winds. There is minimal shade on this trail, so hiking before sunup is a great way to avoid extreme temps.

What's the weather like?
The temperatures at the peak are usually 10 degrees lower than at ground level, and the wind speeds are at least 10 miles per hour faster. The summit wind is often wild, reaching above 40 mph, so hold onto or remove your hat!

Note: You can add 1 mile each way while hiking Guadalupe Peak by taking the stock trails. They have a more gradual incline and are less stressful on the knees, especially for people with heavy backpacks.

Are dogs allowed?
Dogs are not allowed in Guadalupe Mountains National Park due to the sensitive plants and wildlife. Only service animals are permitted.

Are drones allowed?
Drones are not allowed to take off, land, or operate in areas managed by the National Park Service. They are not allowed in Guadalupe Mountains National Park.

Are there restrooms?
There are restrooms in the park, but not along this route to hike Guadalupe Peak. If you need to go to the bathroom while hiking, all human waste must be packed out and disposed of in garbage receptacles. Follow Leave No Trace principles.

How much water should I bring?
The National Park Service recommends hikers bring a gallon of water per day and turn around when they've drank half the water they brought. Water access along the trail is minimal, so pack in more than you think you'll need.

Cell phone service:
Cell service is questionable in much of Guadalupe Mountains NP. Bring a handheld GPS satellite communicator or other emergency device to allow communication if cell service is not available while hiking Guadalupe Peak.

Camping
There are three developed campgrounds that host tents, vehicles, and RVs. There is also one horse-camping area. If you wish to make this an overnight adventure and camp in Guadalupe Mountains National Park, you will need to get permits online up to six months in advance.

Dog Canyon Campground has nine tent and four RV sites, plus one group site for 10-20 people. Flush toilets and drinking water are available, but no wood or gas fires are allowed. There are no hookups, showers, or dump stations.

Pine Springs Campground has 20 tent and 13 RV sites, plus two group sites for 10-20 people each. There are toilets and drinking water, but there are no showers, dump stations, or hookups. Stoves are required as wood and gas fires are not allowed.

Frijole Horse Corral Campground is the only horse user facility on the east side of the park. It can hold up to 10 animals, and is located directly next to Highway 62/180, so expect road noise and minimal privacy. Visitors can tent or RV camp here.

Reservations and permits:
No reservations are required for hiking Guadalupe Peak at this time. Visit the NPS website for up-to-date info.