Four days at the park + places you can stay when the national park is full

Salt Flat

New Mexico

Carlsbad

Guadalupe Mountains Travel Options 

Arrive at Guadalupe Mountains National Park and check into your accommodation. The park has two campgrounds, Pine Springs and Dog Canyon, as well as a lodge at Pine Springs.

Take a short hike to explore the Pine Springs area, such as the Pinery Trail or the Smith Spring Trail.

Stop by the visitor center to pick up a park map and learn about the park's history and geology.

Hike to the summit of Guadalupe Peak, the highest point in Texas. The trail is 8.5 miles round trip and can take anywhere from 6-8 hours, so be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks.

In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll through McKittrick Canyon, known for its vibrant fall foliage and interesting rock formations.

If time permits, take a short drive to nearby Carlsbad Caverns National Park to explore the underground caves.

Explore the park's backcountry by hiking one of the more remote trails, such as the Devil's Hall Trail or the Bush Mountain Trail.

Take a break and have a picnic lunch at one of the park's many picnic areas.

In the evening, stargaze under the dark skies of the park, which is designated as an International Dark Sky Park.

Take a guided tour of the historic Frijole Ranch, a former cattle ranch that now serves as a museum.

Go birdwatching at the park's various birding hotspots, such as the Salt Basin Dunes or the Williams Ranch.

Depart from Guadalupe Mountains National Park and continue on to your next destination.

Of course, you can always adjust this itinerary to fit your own interests and time constraints. Just be sure to check weather and trail conditions before you go, and bring appropriate gear and supplies for hiking and camping.

There are numerous Beurau of Land Management sites (BLM) near the park that are great places to stay when the park is full. 

Two are available in between the national park and Carlsbad. 

One BLM site is on the east bound part of the highway that is just a dirt plot. There are zero accommodations. Great if you have an RV of car-camping setup. No coverings, no restrooms, etc. 

On the western bound side there is my favorite BLM site at the Sunset Reef Campground. 

If you prefer a warm shower then head to the Whites City motel. Plenty of space in an affordable motel room nearby. 

Sunset Reef Campground · campsite, New Mexico 88220, turn on Washington Ranch Road - approx 300 ft to RT unmarked gravel road - take this to

Visit Texas Trailhead for a complete beginner’s guide to hiking the peak. 

What to Expect Hiking the Guadalupe Mountains Peak Trail

Whites City Cavern Inn · 6 Carlsbad Cavern Hwy, Whites City, NM 88268

If you're wanting to travel to the top of Texas then this Guadalupe Mountains travel itinerary will help you plan accordingly.  This is a suggestion of things to do, but know that if you're tired you should rest!

Sunset Reef Campground

Whites City Cavern Inn

Chosa Campground

Thinking about heading to west Texas to do some hiking? Here's everything you can expect hiking the Guadalupe Mountains peak trail.