Texas: Adventures in the Guadalupe Mountains and Beyond
Texas isn’t just about big cities and vast plains—it’s home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the country. My time in the Guadalupe Mountains was a reminder of just how wild and rugged the state can be. From colorful canyons to breathtaking sunsets, the highlights of my trip were filled with jaw-dropping beauty.
McKittrick Canyon and Devil’s Hall – Fall Colors at Their Peak
I kicked off my exploration in the Guadalupe Mountains with a hike through McKittrick Canyon, where the fall colors were at their peak. The vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of the canyon’s trees stood in stark contrast to the rocky desert landscape, creating a surreal scene. I spent hours wandering through this stunning stretch of wilderness, soaking in the colors and the serenity.
Afterward, I hiked to Devil’s Hall, another must-see spot in the park. The trail through the canyon opened up to an otherworldly landscape with narrow rock corridors and towering cliffs. It felt like stepping into a natural cathedral, with every turn revealing another breathtaking view.
Guadalupe Peak – Sunset from the Top
The next day, I set my sights on summiting Guadalupe Peak, the highest point in Texas. The hike to the top was challenging but worth every step. Reaching the summit for sunset was an experience I won’t forget. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the sky exploded in colors, and the vast landscape stretched out before me. It was a perfect moment to pause and reflect on the journey.
El Cap – The Insane Sunset
One of the most memorable moments of my trip was watching the sunset over El Cap, a dramatic rock formation that looms over the park. The sunset light hitting the cliffs turned everything into a fiery orange, and I was left speechless by the beauty of it all. It was one of those rare moments where everything aligns perfectly—location, timing, and light.
Salt Basin Dunes – A Wild Evening
My last stop in the Guadalupe Mountains took me to the Salt Basin Dunes, an otherworldly spot that felt like it could be straight out of a dream. The dunes were stark and striking against the desert landscape, and I spent the evening there, completely immersed in the quiet and the beauty. As the sun set and the sky darkened, the dunes took on a magical quality that made the experience even more surreal.
Texas proved to be far more than I expected—a place of rugged beauty and incredible landscapes. From the peak fall colors in McKittrick Canyon to the wildness of the Salt Basin Dunes, every corner of the Guadalupe Mountains had something new to offer. I’m already looking forward to my next adventure in this stunning state.