Guadalupe Peak, Guadalupe Mountains National Park

My road trip through New Mexico included the Carlsbad Cavern NP but the 4x4 trails and hiking trails were closed so I had some extra time. I decided to visit the Guadalupe National Park. Best. Idea. Ever. The area is gorgeous. Hiking up took an hour and fifty minutes (4.25 miles) and about an hour and a half to come back down. I reached the summit slightly after sunset on Dec 2nd, 2022. I definitely recommend this hike (there are others) if you're in the area. It's the top of Texas!

The Guadalupe peak trail is definitely VERY strenuous. The summit is beautiful and rewarding! Make sure and pack a light jacket in the cooler months because it’s on the edge of uncomfortably cold without one at the top. The trip up is straight cardio and easy-ish on the body BUT be prepared for the trip down because it is tough on you. We used hiking poles almost the entire time and I KT taped my knees to make sure they were supported. About .7 miles from the bottom there is a sign that indicates “no stock beyond this point” and if you take a left at that sign, you can take the mule trail which is less steep/less step-downs but you’ll add a mile to your hike. 2 liters of water was just under enough for me (we hiked in late April) and I would highly recommend packing a well rounded meal to stop and eat at the summit or somewhere a little further down and warmer. I’m not an extremely experienced hiker and we did it in a bit over 7 hours. Giving 5 stars because it’s a beautiful trail with lots of foliage and selenite to look at but I won’t be doing this one again probably 😅