Guadalupe Peak, Texas, United States

4Jordan T 5:00 PM Aug 15, 2020

Strenuous and steep but a good time!
This is a strenuous hike to the highest point in Texas. It's an 8.5 mile round trip and the first and last ~1 miles are the hardest. Bring plenty of water, it gets hot out there! 56 ounces per person was not enough. It took us about 7 hours, so it was difficult to avoid the heat of the day. The trail itself is mostly well-maintained and clean. There is a lot of variety in the landscape and flora you get to see. You also get to see the rest of the Guadalupe Mountains park and the nearby Salt Flats. During COVID the trail is open and you either display your parks pass or put your entrance fee in an envelope. Did not see a park ranger around while we were there. Closest/easiest place to stay is in Carlsbad, about 45 minutes' drive away in New Mexico.

4J K 5:00 PM Oct 11, 2020

Arduous!
I feel as though strenuous doesn’t describe this hike well enough so I’m going with arduous. Start by looking at the maps available on the nps website and planning out your day. Come early, why? Because parking can be tight, it’ll take you some time to get to the peak, you’ll want to see the sunrise from up there. Use the restrooms at the base by the campground before heading up. Bring 3-4 liters of water, I filled my hydration pack with ice, and carried two 1.75 liter bottles in the pack. Bring a weather resistant jacket, one that keeps you warm when it’s chilly, and one that shields you from the heat. Wear a hiking hat! It gets toasty on the trail. Wear sunscreen because you don’t want to look like a grape going up only to turn into a raisin on the way down. We got walking sticks at the Carlsbad Walmarts, they’re super at aiding in getting to the top and coming down. Bring snacks, there are rock formations on the side of the mountain where you can sit, catch your breath, fuel up with a snack, and take in the view. The path is littered with rocks, pebbles, stones, etc. wear proper footwear and socks to protect your feet and to keep from slipping. After you pass the bridge, keep going! You’re almost there. It does get VERY windy, it’s advisable you refrain from wearing anything that would fly away in the wind. Obligatory brag photo opp at the peak! There are some gorgeous cliffs that are quite scenic. Look about the peak, you’ll see some great photo opps. The mountain serves us all, as you go up and later descend be courteous. Allow others to get by, help others along the way, bring your camera, snacks, water, and positive attitude. Allow the universe to speak to you. She will reveal her secrets to you if you listen. Stop by the visitor center to get a patch for your backpack and an annual pass, they’re worth it. If you’re looking for another adventure in Carlsbad, NM go to the Carlsbad Caverns.