If you’re in search of a new cave hike in Texas to embark on, look no further than Hueco Tanks State Park. This rocky oasis in the West Texas desert is home to a little-known cave filled with ancient petroglyphs. It’s a portal back in time just waiting for you to explore!
A hidden gem in far West Texas, Hueco Tanks State Park is a mystifying wonderland of rocks.
Google/Jim Hoffheins For thousands of years, people have journeyed here for the rainwater that pools in the rock basins. It’s truly an oasis in the rugged desert landscape!
There are several hikes to embark on in the park, with the Hueco Tanks Kiva Cave Trail being the shortest.
AllTrails/Tim Rowe It’s just over half a mile long, yet leads to the most incredible destination.
Most skill levels can enjoy this trail, as its elevation gain is only around 120 feet.
AllTrails/Josh Hunt A fair amount of rock scrambling is involved, however. Ensure you have appropriate footwear, and always use caution when climbing.
The hike leads to an ancient cave that’s easy to miss if you aren’t looking for it.
AllTrails/Danielle De Frank Wide and low to the ground, the cave (or kiva) is more like a crawlspace in that getting inside requires a bit of skillful maneuvering.
Once inside, you can’t help but marvel at the sunlight that streams in through narrow openings between the rocks.
AllTrails/Isaiah Rodriguez It casts shadows that dance on the cave walls, mesmerizing you with their intricate movements.
Also on the walls are petroglyphs drawn by the ancient peoples who inhabited the area long ago.
AllTrails/Isaiah Rodriguez How many can you identify?
While the cave is the main attraction, there’s plenty to see on the rest of the trail, too.
AllTrails/Jean-Claude Linossi Look out for unique rock formations - can you tell why this one is nicknamed “the alligator?”
Sweeping panoramic vistas showcase the West Texas desert like you’ve never seen it before.
AllTrails/Jean-Claude Linossi You’ll feel like you’re on top of the world as you gaze down at the city of El Paso far below.
Please note: Access to the park is restricted. You can explore it via guided or self-guided tour; however, both require a reservation. Visitors must book guided tours at least one week in advance by calling (915) 849-6684. Only 70 self-guided permits are issued each day, and they can be reserved up to 90 days in advance. Call (512) 389-8911 to reserve yours. For more information about the park, such as hours and entrance fees, visit its website or Facebook page.
Google/Jim Hoffheins
For thousands of years, people have journeyed here for the rainwater that pools in the rock basins. It’s truly an oasis in the rugged desert landscape!
AllTrails/Tim Rowe
It’s just over half a mile long, yet leads to the most incredible destination.
AllTrails/Josh Hunt
A fair amount of rock scrambling is involved, however. Ensure you have appropriate footwear, and always use caution when climbing.
AllTrails/Danielle De Frank
Wide and low to the ground, the cave (or kiva) is more like a crawlspace in that getting inside requires a bit of skillful maneuvering.
AllTrails/Isaiah Rodriguez
It casts shadows that dance on the cave walls, mesmerizing you with their intricate movements.
How many can you identify?
AllTrails/Jean-Claude Linossi
Look out for unique rock formations - can you tell why this one is nicknamed “the alligator?”
You’ll feel like you’re on top of the world as you gaze down at the city of El Paso far below.
To learn more about the Hueco Tanks Kiva Cave Trail, visit its page on AllTrails.
Have you ever hiked the Hueco Tanks Kiva Cave Trail? If so, we’d love to hear about your experience! Tell us in the comments. For another epic cave hike in Texas, check out our previous article.
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Address: Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site, 6900 Hueco Tanks Road No. 1, El Paso, TX 79938, USA
