How cold does it get in Guadalupe Mountains National Park?
The cool season lasts for 2.9 months, from November 22 to February 18, with an average daily high temperature below 60°F. The coldest month of the year in Guadalupe Mountains National Park is January, with an average low of 35°F and high of 54°F.
Can you hike Guadalupe Peak in the winter?
The highest point in Texas provides a perfect wintertime hike. You'll spend a full day hiking 4+ miles, one way, to the top of Guadalupe Peak, and you'll gain 3,000 feet of elevation in the process.
Is December a good time to visit Guadalupe Mountains National Park?
When to Go: Guadalupe Mountains National Park is open year-round, but spring and fall are generally the best seasons to visit.
What is the best time of year to hike Guadalupe Peak?
Guadalupe Peak Hiking Stats Spring and fall are the best times to do this hike, when temperatures are mild. During the summer months, expect hot weather, and plan on getting a very early start to beat the midday heat. In the winter, it can get below freezing.
Does Guadalupe Mountains get snow?
Current Conditions and Forecast Spring and summer seasons bring warm and mild temperatures with ocasional showers, while fall and winter can bring cooler temperatures with high winds that can reach over 70+ mph on occasions. Snow and freezing fog is also common during the cooler months of December and January.
Are there bears in Guadalupe National Park?
Mountaintop forests of Douglas fir and ponderosa pine are home to mammals such as elk, black bear, gray foxes, striped and hog-nosed skunks, mule deer, and mountain lions. The elk that were native to the Guadalupe Mountains were hunted to extinction by the late 1800's.
Which park is better Big Bend or Guadalupe Mountains?
Big Bend Has More Hiking Opportunities While both parks have plenty of hiking opportunities, Big Bend offers about 150 miles of trails to about 80 at Guadalupe Mountains.
How many days do you need in Guadeloupe National Park?
This park is best explored over a period of 2 or 3 days, with at least 1 day devoted to the visitor center, historic attractions, and trails in the Pine Springs section, and another full day allotted to McKittrick Canyon.
Are there bears in Guadalupe Mountains?
While rarely seen, black bears live throughout the high country of the Guadalupe Mountains Wilderness.
How difficult is the Guadalupe Peak hike?
Guadalupe Peak is a rewarding, although very strenuous, 8.5 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).
How do you prepare for the Guadalupe Peak hike?
My advice would be to make sure you take plenty of water, snacks for energy, start out early, rest when needed and enjoy the views. It took us 5 hours to make it to the top and 3 hours to get back to the parking lot. If you freeze your water, not only will it keep you cool, it's easier to drink than warm water.
What do you wear to Guadalupe National Park?
Clothing that can be layered is best, comfortable and sturdy walking and hiking shoes are a must, a hat and sunscreen are highly recommended, and plenty of drinking water is essential for hikers. McKittrick Canyon's beautiful display of fall colors usually takes place between late October and early November.
Can you do the Pacific Crest Trail in the winter?
The Pacific Crest Trail can be wonderful year-round if you're a hiker who also likes to backcountry ski or does other snow sports. Truly, the PCT is a world-class place for winter recreation! But if you're only a hiker, you'll generally aim to head out during the snow-free months.
Can you hike Telescope peak in winter?
Telescope Peak is usually snow-free by early June, and can remain snow free through November. The mountain is usually climbed from early May until mid-November, but is a very common winter climb as well. In winter, it's a good idea to bring an ice axe and crampons.
Is Guadalupe Peak Trail open?
This is a very popular area for backpacking, camping, and hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. You'll need to leave pups at home — dogs aren't allowed on this trail. Guadalupe Mountains National Park charges a fee to enter.
How hard is it to hike Guadalupe Peak?
Guadalupe Peak is a rewarding, although very strenuous, 8.5 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).
Visiting When Its Busy
In the fall and spring the park can fill to capacity. Learn how to plan ahead for a flexible and enjoyable visit.
Plan Your Visit
Planning a visit? Discover the hiking, birding, backpacking, picnicking and many more opportunities that await you.
Pets Prohibited on Most Trails
Opportunities for dogs are severely limited. We encourage visitors to think twice before bringing their dog to the park.
Hiking the trails in the Guadalupes
Learn more about hiking the diverse trail system in the largest wilderness area in Texas.
Backpacking in the Guadalupes
Begin here to plan your backpacking adventure, check out our recommended itineraries or create your own.
How long is the drive to Guadalupe Mountains National Park?
Its a LONG trek to get from Houston to West Texas, where Guadalupe Mountains National Park is located. The 10 hour drive is worth it for some of the best hiking in Texas. Plus, the highest peaks in Texas are located in Guadalupe Mountains National Park. This park is one of the least visited National Parks, along with its neighbor to the north, Carlsbad Caverns.
How many miles of hiking trails are there in Guadalupe National Park?
With 80 miles of hiking trails throughout Guadalupe Mountains National Park, your options are endless. The trails start at a few different locations, including near the Pine Spring Campground, McKittrick Canyon Day-use Area, and Dog Canyon Campground. There are also thru hikes in the back-country. We took advantage of our one and half days in the park, hiking two different trails.
Is the weather in Guadalupe National Park unpredictable?
The weather is a huge factor in planning your visit to Guadalupe Mountains National Park! It can be unpredictable and change quickly. Check the most recent predictions and follow recommendations from park staff and volunteers when planning hikes for the day. Always be prepared for it to be colder at higher elevations, and for high winds.
