Rising from the desert, this mountain mass contains portions of the world's most extensive
and significant Permian limestone fossil reef. Also featured are a tremendous earth fault, lofty peaks, unusual flora and fauna, and a colorful record of the past. Guadalupe Peak, highest point in Texas at 8,749 feet; El Capitan, a massive limestone formation; McKittrick Canyon, with its unique flora and fauna; and the "Bowl", located in a high country conifer forest, are significant park features.

Established: September 30, 1972.

 

 

 

---

Basic Information on Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Operating Hours and Operating Seasons for Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Park is open year-round. Visitor Center hours are 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., slightly longer in summer. Visitor Center closed on Christmas Day. Gate to McKittrick Canyon day-use area is locked at night. McKittrick Canyon fall colors season runs from approximately mid-October through mid-November.

How to Get to Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Closest Airport to Guadalupe Mountains National Park - Major service available in El Paso

How to Drive to Guadalupe Mountains National Park - To Park: Headquarters Visitor Center at Pine Springs accessed via U.S. highway 62/180 between Carlsbad, NM and El Paso, TX. Dog Canyon, on the park's north side, is accessed via New Mexico state road 137.

Weather & Climate
Hot summers, mild winters. Sudden and extreme weather changes are common. Frequent high winds, winter through spring. Cool nights, even in summer. Loose, comfortable clothing, sturdy walking shoes, hat, sunscreen, and plenty of drinking water.

Accessibility
Headquarters Visitor Center is fully accessible; accessible rest rooms;.75 mile round trip Pinery Trail from visitor center to Butterfield Stage Ruins is accessible. Wheelchair available. McKittrick Canyon Visitor Center is accessible.

---

Where to Stay at Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Camping at Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Backcountry
Open All Year
Ten back-country campgrounds require a free permit that may be obtained in person at the Headquarters Visitor Center or the Dog Canyon Ranger Station. No fires (including charcoal) allowed in park. Water available at trailheads. There is no water in park's backcountry.

Dog Canyon
Open All Year
$8.00 a night;group sites $2.50 per person, minimum $25.00. Reservations accepted for front country groups of ten or more. Tent and RV sites available, water and rest rooms, but no showers or hookups. No fires (including charcoal) allowed in park.

Pine Springs
Open All Year
$8.00 per night, group sites $2.50 per person, minimum $25.00. Reservations accepted for front country groups of ten or more.tent and RV sites available, water and rest rooms, but no showers or hookups. No fires (including charcoal) allowed in park.

---

Things to Do at Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Activities and More Information
Some activities available to do is horseback riding, camping, backpacking, and day hiking.