Top of Texas

Texas is filled with a vast variety of landscapes. This includes the mountains out in West Texas, specifically the Guadelupe Mountains.

We set out last March to climb these mountains and reach the highest peak in Texas at a height of 8,751 feet. The hike itself is beautiful and the higher you climb, the more amazing the views get.

Located in Guadalupe Mountain National Park, the trailhead begins just past the camping area. We "camped" there the night before our hike. (I say "camped" because we ultimately set up our tent, and then slept in our car... I know, I know, we cheated a little. But it was wet and we didn't want to get sick before the hike.) We woke up bright and early, broke down camp, met a puppy, left our rainfly behind (rest in peace sweet rainfly), and made some breakfast before hitting the trail. Most importantly, we made coffee.

The trail itself is about 4.25 miles to the summit, so about 8.5 miles round trip. Plan on it being around an 8-hour hike... although, it probably took us around 10 with taking breaks, admiring the view, and taking pictures. But, can you blame us?

Be sure to sign in and sign out at the beginning of the trail. This is so that the park rangers can keep track of those who are still out on the trail and increase safety for your hike. We took a backpack with extra water, snacks, sunscreen, batteries, and electrolyte drinks. Also, we recommend bringing a light hat to keep the sun off your face, but still let some air in, a cooling towel, sunglasses, your best hiking shoes, long pants, and a light jacket or long-sleeve. As crazy as it may sound, it actually gets kinda cool with the breeze toward the top of the mountain and the pants also help protect your legs against the sharp rocks along the way.

The path is mostly a rocky trail, with little coverage. There is also a small bridge toward the end of the trail.

Once at the top, you can see for miles in all directions. There is a large pyramid marker that was erected by American Airlines in 1958. On it is the American Airlines logo, a U.S. Postal Service tribute to the Pony Express Riders of the Butterfield Stage, and a compass with the logo of the Boy Scouts of America. There is also a summit registry in an ammo box. Be sure to sign your name and mark your achievement!

If I were to do it again, I would recommend starting earlier, because we ended up going down the last bit of the trail in the dark and I wouldn't recommend that. Also, note to self, don't drink too much Pedialyte that day.

Before you head out, don't forget to get your national park stamp, if you collect them like we do and take a picture next to the sign.