TOP OF TEXAS AT GUADALUPE MOUNTAINS

I hiked the tallest peak in Texas at Guadalupe Mountains National Park. It was and is still the most challenging hike I’ve done. Hiking in the summer probably didn’t help. However, I’m so happy that I pushed through and completed it.

This is a very strenuous hike. The Guadalupe Peak Trail (8,751 feet) is a steep 8.41 miles. Because I was hiking this in the summer and Texas summers get extremely hot, I started the hike in the morning at 7am. I was able to finish around 3pm. It took 6 hours to get to the top and about 2 hours to come back down.

The hike itself was very rough. I considered calling it quits several times during the hike up. The first part of the hike was tough because of the elevation gain. I had to take several breaks because I kept feeling like I was going to throw up. There is 3,000 feet of elevation gain on this trail and you will definitely feel it throughout.

If you are planning to do this hike, I recommend you start early in the morning if possible. Carry plenty of water and wear appropriate shoes. Getting to the top was a huge accomplishment for me and such a great feeling. Happy Hiking!