Towering over the surrounding Texas desert, the Guadalupe Mountains for which Guadalupe Mountains NP is named feature some of the world's largest and most significant Permian limestone fossil reef. This ancient limestone is only part of the character and unique beauty that is brought to bear here in this magnificent national park.
What awes one the most when looking out over the grandeur of Guadalupe Mountains National Park is the color. The effect is most brilliant at sunrise and sunset, as the mountains begin to glow in the growing and fading light of day. Unbelievable reds, purples, oranges, yellows are to be seen all over in this amazing park, making for a true feast for the eyes.
Aside from the world's most extensive Permian limestone fossil reef, one will also find here a colorful record of the past: a geological timetable exposed to the elements for all to see, gazing upon the history of Texas in all of its glory and splendor. Guadalupe NP also showcases an earth fault, many lofty peaks and unique and colorful flora and fauna.
One of the peaks that you will find here in the Guadalupe Mountains is Guadalupe Peak. Standing at 8,749 feet it is the highest point in Texas. You will also thrill to see El Capitan, McKittrick Canyon and “The Bowl.”
If you are wondering when the best time to come to Guadalupe Mountains NP for a visit is, know that the park is open all year round and its beauty can be experienced during any season. Many people like to come for the fall, when the leaves on the trees that abound through much of the park change from their summer emerald green to brilliant shades of orange, yellow and red. It is truly a magical time of year and there are few better places to experience autumn in all of its glory than here at the Guadalupe Mountains National Park.
When coming to Guadalupe Mountains NP, remember that there are no paved roads to speak of for scenic drives. If you are looking to head out on a scenic drive a 4 wheel drive off-road vehicle is required. However even if you don't own such a vehicle don't think you are going to be left out in the cold: there are over 80 miles worth of trails that will allow you to explore the park to its fullest and take in all of its magnificent glory.
Among the activities that are most popular at the park we find: hiking, backpacking, camping, and wildlife viewing. If you are looking for even more to see here in the area, you might consider taking a trip to the Frijole Ranch History Museum, or even see the ruins of an abandoned stage station.
Texas is full of some of the best national parks in the country, and Guadalupe NP is one of them. This unbelievable park is home to some of the most magnificent scenery to be found anywhere in the Lone Star State. You owe it to yourself to come and see it with your own eyes, it is a sight that you will not soon forget.