Guadalupe Mountains 2023

On this day we decided to bring my uncle Oscar to the Carlsbad Caverns. Auntie Desi and Monique had been there already. After driving over 2h to get there, we learned it had been closed the day before due to maintenance work in the lighting system… 😳 nice. Now what to do? We google and decided to go for a hike at the Guadalupe National Park nearby. Let’s go!

This is the entrance.

“Guadalupe Mountains National Park, located in West Texas, is home to the highest peaks in the state, including Guadalupe Peak (8,751 feet). The park preserves rugged mountains, vast desert landscapes, and fossil-rich canyons, showcasing the remnants of an ancient marine reef from 260 million years ago.

Hiking is a key attraction, with trails like the Guadalupe Peak Trail offering a strenuous but rewarding climb to the “Top of Texas,” providing panoramic views. Other popular hikes include the McKittrick Canyon Trail, known for vibrant fall foliage, and the Devil’s Hall Trail, featuring dramatic rock formations.

The park is rich in flora, including desert shrubs, yucca, agave, and pinyon pine. Wildlife includes mule deer, golden eagles, javelinas, and the elusive mountain lion. Sightseeing highlights include El Capitan, an iconic limestone peak, and starry night skies perfect for stargazing, as Guadalupe Mountains is an International Dark Sky Park.” from ChatGPT.