Guadalupe Peak

Climb to the "Top of Texas" with a hike up Guadalupe Peak. Guadalupe Peak is a rewarding, although very strenuous, 8.4 mile round trip hike with a 3,000 foot elevation gain. It will take from six to eight hours to complete the hike. The peak provides fantastic views from the highest point in the state of Texas (8,751 feet / 2,667 meters). It also introduces hikers to several of the park’s ecosystems including the high desert and the high elevation forests. On a clear day you will be rewarded with a tremendous view of the surrounding mountains and desert. Stop for a while and enjoy the view before beginning the hike back down. Be Prepared: Make sure you are prepared for the hike with the Eleven Essential items. Carrying the Ten Essentials (plus one) with you can help you be prepared for minor injuries, sudden weather changes, or unexpected delays. This is a strenuous hike which begins at a mile above sea level and gains 3,000 feet. Do you have a medical conditions that could be worsened by certain activities or changes in altitude (asthma, heart condition)? While the stock trail adds a mile to the hike each direction, it is significantly less steep than the main trail, and may be useful if backpacking. When you consume half of the water you are carrying, turn around. The descent is often more difficult than the climb to the peak due to the rocky trail surface and fatigue. Hiking poles help! The top of Texas is not a toilet. Make sure to bring a commercial toilet bag system with you to protect the environment you are hiking in. Pack out all of your trash. Layers and sunscreen are important to protect you from the elements. At the top of the peak expect temperatures at least ten degrees cooler and wind speeds at least ten miles per hour faster than Pine Springs. In areas more than a quarter of a mile from restroom facilities, and all areas inside the Wilderness boundary, all solid human waste, feminine hygiene products, and toilet paper must be carried out in a landfill-safe commercial toilet bag. Much of the trail is over steep, rocky terrain. Hikers should wear comfortable hiking boots with good traction, and that are well broken in. Trekking poles aid in stability and can be a useful addition. Hikers should carefully monitor the weather. Afternoon thunderstorms are common through the summer months. Lightning can be especially dangerous at high elevations on the exposed peak. Watch the sky. If storms develop, seek a lower elevation. Winds can be severe on the peak, especially in winter months. Winds in excess of 40 miles per hour are not uncommon. When hiking during high winds, you should always be prepared to turn around. You should prioritize your own safety above all else in windy conditions. There is little shade along the trail. Summer temperatures can be quite hot. Bring plenty of water, at least one gallon per person, per day. Also come prepared with sunscreen, a hat, and protective clothing. The 8.4 mile hike to the summit and back takes the average hiker from six to eight hours round trip. Plan to start the hike early in the morning, especially in the summer when high temperatures and afternoon thunderstorms are a concern. Bring enough warm clothing. Even in the hottest weather, thunderstorms can cause the temperature to drop significantly. If you intend to make the peak for sunrise or sunset, make sure you have a light source, either a head lamp or a flashlight.