Guadalupe Mountains National Park, TX

 Another one of the hikes I'd like to hit during my time in Texas for my summer internship is Guadalupe Mountain. This hike is a lot more ambitious than Palo Duro Canyon which I wrote about a couple weeks ago. It's over 8 miles and boasts a 3,000 foot elevation gain; the hike also takes the average hiker 6 to 8 hours to complete. This is definitely unlike anything I've done before so we'll see if I end up actually doing this over the summer, it would really depend on how much I'm able to train before then. 

Even if I'm not able to summit Guadalupe Peak, there are plenty of other trails within the park - over 80 miles of trails to be exact. I'm especially interested in the Salt Basin Dunes trail which is quite a bit easier than summiting Guadalupe Mountain and also provides fantastic views.

Whatever trail I decide to take, I'll have to be mindful of more than just the elevation gains. I'll have to contend with not only desert heat, with temperatures far exceeding 100 degrees but also the wildlife, which could include anything from coyotes, scorpions, or snakes. 

No matter which trail I choose, I know hiking in Guadalupe Mountains National Park will be a test of both preparation and respect for nature. Whether I make it to the summit of Texas’ highest peak or find myself wandering through the Salt Basin Dunes instead, I know I’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for the rugged landscapes that define this corner of the state. Regardless, it will be an experience that my previous hikes in the Ozarks or even some of the hikes I've done in Yellowstone can't match.

In the end, it's not just about checking a box or conquering a trail—it's about the experience, the effort, and the memories made along the way. With the right planning and gear, I’m hopeful this summer will include a few unforgettable moments in the Guadalupe Mountains.