At 8,751 feet, Guadalupe Peak is the highest point in Texas. Topping even the Rockies in Texas, this lone mountain offers incredible hiking and stunning views of the surrounding Chihuahuan Desert.
Guadalupe Peak towers above the arid landscape in Guadalupe Mountains National Park. A challenging yet breathtaking trail leads to its rocky summit, rewarding hikers with lofty vistas showcasing West Texas’ remote wilderness beauty.
Join a journey up the rooftop of Texas on the hike to Guadalupe Peak. Recharge with peaceful solitude and panoramic views that reveal the magic of Big Bend country.
The Hike to the Top
The strenuous hike up Guadalupe Peak is a 8.5-mile round trip on the Guadalupe Peak Trail. Most hikers choose to stay overnight at the basic Pine Springs Campground near the trailhead to start early.
After registering at the trailhead, set off on a steep path leading through scrubby vegetation. The grade eases in the forested middle section before the rocky switchbacks up to the bald summit. Be sure to pause and appreciate the changing vistas behind you on the climb up.
Other Hiking Options
If 8+ miles seems too ambitious, the 6.5-mile roundtrip hike to the Peak Viewpoint still rewards hikers with phenomenal vistas without summiting. Or choose one of the easier area trails like the Pinery Trail through meadows ofgoldflowers or the McKittrick Canyon hike to the historic Grotto picnic area.
The Summit Views
The panoramic 360° views from Guadalupe Peak are truly astounding. To the east sit the rolling peaks of the Guadalupe Mountains. El Capitan rises dramatically to the south. Westward, relish vistas stretching all the way to the Glass Mountains near Alpine.
On extra clear days, you can see over 100 miles to the Sacramento Mountains and White Sands National Monument in New Mexico. Have a snack and simply soak in the views from the roof of Texas before heading back down.
What to Expect on the Trail
While a challenging hike, the Guadalupe Peak Trail is well-maintained and marked. The first section switchbacks steeply up loose gravelly slopes before mellowing out in a forest. The trail becomes steeper again in the last mile over exposed rock requiring some easy scrambling.
Bring plenty of water – there are no water sources after leaving the trailhead. Dress in layers and wear good hiking shoes for ankle support. Use trekking poles to ease the descent. An early start helps beat the heat on blazing summer days.
The Geology of Guadalupe Mountains
The Guadalupe Mountains emerged millions of years ago as reef formations in an ancient sea. Guadalupe Peak towers as a limestone remnant of this fossilized reef now lifted high in West Texas.
Hike the Permian Reef Trail to spot marine fossils still embedded in the white limestone. Learn more about the unique geology at the McKittrick Canyon Visitor Center and the Fossil Discovery Exhibit.
Camping Under the Stars
Pitch a tent at the Pine Springs Campground or Dog Canyon Campground to overnight under the brilliant dark skies of the Guadalupes. Fall asleep to the hoots of canyon owls and rise early to tackle the peak.
Backcountry camping is also permitted for multiday hikes into the remote interior wilderness. Just be sure to pack in all your water and secure a $12 permit.
With challenging yet breathtaking trails and unmatched summit views, Guadalupe Peak promises a rewarding yet demanding adventure. Hike high into the clouds on the rooftop of Texas for a backcountry getaway that reinvigorates mind, body and spirit.
