Big Bend is the clear winner in visitation, with about 464,000 visitors in 2019, compared to about 189,000 for Guadalupe Mountains in the same year. Still, both of the Texas parks have visitor numbers well below the millions that flood the top 10 U.S national parks.
Is it worth visiting Guadalupe Mountains National Park?
Compared to the Great National Parks, Yellowstone, Yosemite, Grand Canyon . . . Guadalupe Mountains NP is a good park, but not in the same category. If you’re in West Texas, definitely combine this NP with Carlsbad Caverns NP, White Sands NM, or a bunch of excellent Texas and New Mexico State parks and attractions.
How long should you spend in Guadalupe Mountains 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.
Is Big Bend National Park worth the trip?
Yes, Big Bend National Park in Texas is beautiful and definitely worth visiting. That’s the short answer. Big Bend National Park is America’s fifteenth largest national park, boasting 801,163 acres of protected land, making it the largest protected portion of the Chihuahuan desert in the United States.
Is Guadalupe Peak in Big Bend National Park?
Big Bend National Park is bounded by the Rio Grande, as it defines the U.S.-Mexico border, while Guadalupe Mountains National Park boasts the highest peak in Texas and a canyon that I believe has the prettiest scenery in the state, especially in the fall.
How many days do you need in Big Bend National Park?
With three days to spend in the park, you can explore the major roads more thoroughly and still have time for hiking.
What is the best 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.
Are there waterfalls in Guadalupe Mountains National Park?
Ranging from 2.3 to 8.5 miles, there’s a hike for every fitness level. Natural rock staircases, lush forests, and roaring waterfalls are just several of the features you’ll encounter.
Do I need reservations for Guadalupe Mountains National Park?
You don’t need to make a reservation to camp in Guadalupe Mountains National Park, in fact, reservations aren’t accepted, all campgrounds are allocated on a first come, first served basis. Costs for camping at $8 per night.
What is the closest town to Guadalupe Mountains National Park?
The closest lodging options are Dell City, TX or Whites City, NM. Dell City is 40 miles west of the park off of US Highway 62/180. Whites City is 35 miles east of the park in New Mexico off US Highway 62/180.
What is the best month to visit Big Bend?
Fall and spring are the best times to visit Big Bend National Park. Temperatures are mild during the day and cool at night. March is one of the busiest months in the park, because of the great weather conditions and the influx of spring break travelers.
Can you just drive through Big Bend National Park?
A little over an hour to drive. The route is just beautiful and great scenery all along the way. over a year ago.
Which entrance to Big Bend is best?
There are two main paved-road approaches to Big Bend NP and they are Presidio and Marathon. We entered via Presidio and departed via Marathon. Nothing against Marathon, but the Presidio Rio Grande River Road through Big Bend State Park was best for us.
How difficult is 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).
What is so special about Guadalupe Mountains National Park?
Guadalupe Peak is the highest point in Texas, and below it lies a park that offers striking natural beauty, winding trails through serene forests, captivating local history, and the world’s most extensive Permian fossil reef.
What is the difference between Big Bend State Park and Big Bend National Park?
Big Bend Ranch State Park, although just west of Big Bend National Park, offers a completely different experience with rugged volcanic landscapes and many opportunities for backcountry solitude. It offers 275,000 acres of managed wilderness.
What do people do at Big Bend National Park?
There are a few hiking trails and scenic overlooks, but the big draw are the hot springs and the chance to cross the border and visit the Mexican town Boquillas del Carmen. Soaking in the hot springs is one of the best things to do in Big Bend National Park.
When can you see the Milky Way in Big Bend National Park?
The best time of year to stargaze in Big Bend National Park is October to April.
What is the closest town to Big Bend National Park?
Terlingua and Lajitas are the towns closest to Big Bend National Park. It’s 9 miles (14 km) from Terlingua and 21 miles (34 km) from Lajitas to the Big Bend park entrance at Maverick Junction.
Can you drive through Guadalupe Mountains National Park?
No roads pass through the heart of Guadalupe Mountains National Park. However, a series of roads lead to, and provide access within the park. U.S. Highway 62/180 provides the primary access to the park, with a number of spur roads leading into the park.
What do you wear to Guadalupe National Park?
Useful Tips for Visiting Guadalupe Mountains NP
Temperatures vary wildly: Be sure to bring warm clothes and blankets for the nights as the temperatures can drop significantly. During the day, the dry desert heat can quickly cause dehydration and the sun can be intense.