We all know Guadalupe Mountains National Park for housing the four highest peaks in Texas, but not everyone is aware there’s something equally epic hiding in the craggy rock landscape: massive sand dunes. Far below the mountaintops, over 2,000 acres of white sands appear to extend infinitely out to the horizon. It’s truly like a scene from Aladdin, and everyone deserves to experience the magic firsthand.To learn all about this national park to visit in Texas, take a look below.
Guadalupe Mountains National Park is home to not only the four highest peaks in Texas, but also the world’s most extensive Permian fossil reef, incredible biodiversity, and a rich past characterized by conflict, teamwork, and survival. Visitors can experience a variety of different terrains, spectacular night skies, and unparalleled views all-around.
Facebook/Guadalupe Mountains National Park
As the seasons change, so does the landscape. Fall brings brilliant amber, maroon, and golden foliage; in winter, snow-covered mountaintops. Vibrant wildflowers burst into life with the arrival of spring.
Facebook/Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Most people go straight for Guadalupe Peak, unknowingly missing out on the most overlooked nature feature: Salt Basin Dunes. This 2,000-acre region has been shaped by water, wind, and earthquakes in a process that began nearly 30 million years ago.
Google/Ernesto Rausa
An ancient lake once covered this expanse of West Texas desert, with gypsum grain deposits resting on the lake bed beneath. As the climate became much more arid, the oasis dried up and left behind the mystical dunes we see today.
Google/Jean-Claude Linossi
Those who journey into the dunes, some reaching heights of 60 feet, will leave the world behind and enter a vastness so great, it’s almost incomprehensible. Reflect on the powerful elements of wind, water, and time, and enjoy a stark contrast from the craggy rock landscape just minutes away.
Google/Juan Chairez
Visitors to the dunes must exit no more than 30 minutes after sunset, and we highly recommend waiting until then. Witnessing the moon illuminate miles and miles of undulating sand is an experience everyone deserves to have.
Facebook/Guadalupe Mountains National Park
To access the dunes from the Pine Springs Visitor Center, turn right on Highway 62/180 and head west for 23 miles. Upon reaching Salt Flat, make a right turn on FM Road 1576. Keep driving north 17 miles, then turn right on William’s Road. Head east for 7.5 miles until you come to a parking lot. From the trailhead, it’s about a one-mile hike to where the dunes begin. Follow the road that leads past the old parking lot, and you’ve arrived!
Google/Jean-Claude Linossi
Visit Guadalupe Mountains National Park’s website or Facebook page to learn more.
Facebook/Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Google/Ernesto Rausa
Google/Jean-Claude Linossi
Google/Juan Chairez
Have you ever been to the Salt Basin Dunes at Guadalupe Mountains National Park? If so, do you think pictures do them justice? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
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Address: Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Salt Flat, TX 79847, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
national park to visit in texas February 08, 2022 Jennifer Young What is one of the best hiking trails in Texas to take year-round? There are many amazing hiking trails located throughout Texas, some being much harder and longer than others. While some of the trails are only available to hike a few months out of the year, others are accessible year-round. One of the best hiking trails in Texas to take year-round is the Riverplace Nature Trail. Located near West Lake Hills, Texas, this is a 5.5-mile, out-and-back trail with a moderate difficulty rating. In addition to using the Riverplace Nature Trail for hiking opportunities, it’s also used for walking, running, and birdwatching. Be sure to bring your canine companion along. Dogs are allowed on the trail as long as they’re leashed. The Riverplace Nature Trail is the perfect trail to spend an afternoon, and you’ll want to make plans to hike it soon. What state park offers some of the best things to do outside in Texas? For an adventure like no other, you’ll want to visit Palo Duro Canyon State Park, which happens to be one of the best parks in Texas. Palo Duro Canyon is known as the “Grand Canyon of Texas” and receives countless visitors each year. There are a variety of things to do outside in Texas, including several recreational activities you can take part in right here in Palo Duro Canyon State Park. From hiking and mountain biking, to camping and horseback riding, there’s an activity for everyone who wishes to explore this state park. In addition to its variety of recreational activities, many people also choose to visit Palo Duro Canyon State Park because of its unbelievable canyon views. They’re truly breathtaking!
The OIYS Visitor Center
national park to visit in texas
February 08, 2022
Jennifer Young
What is one of the best hiking trails in Texas to take year-round? There are many amazing hiking trails located throughout Texas, some being much harder and longer than others. While some of the trails are only available to hike a few months out of the year, others are accessible year-round. One of the best hiking trails in Texas to take year-round is the Riverplace Nature Trail. Located near West Lake Hills, Texas, this is a 5.5-mile, out-and-back trail with a moderate difficulty rating. In addition to using the Riverplace Nature Trail for hiking opportunities, it’s also used for walking, running, and birdwatching. Be sure to bring your canine companion along. Dogs are allowed on the trail as long as they’re leashed. The Riverplace Nature Trail is the perfect trail to spend an afternoon, and you’ll want to make plans to hike it soon. What state park offers some of the best things to do outside in Texas? For an adventure like no other, you’ll want to visit Palo Duro Canyon State Park, which happens to be one of the best parks in Texas. Palo Duro Canyon is known as the “Grand Canyon of Texas” and receives countless visitors each year. There are a variety of things to do outside in Texas, including several recreational activities you can take part in right here in Palo Duro Canyon State Park. From hiking and mountain biking, to camping and horseback riding, there’s an activity for everyone who wishes to explore this state park. In addition to its variety of recreational activities, many people also choose to visit Palo Duro Canyon State Park because of its unbelievable canyon views. They’re truly breathtaking!
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
There are many amazing hiking trails located throughout Texas, some being much harder and longer than others. While some of the trails are only available to hike a few months out of the year, others are accessible year-round. One of the best hiking trails in Texas to take year-round is the Riverplace Nature Trail. Located near West Lake Hills, Texas, this is a 5.5-mile, out-and-back trail with a moderate difficulty rating. In addition to using the Riverplace Nature Trail for hiking opportunities, it’s also used for walking, running, and birdwatching. Be sure to bring your canine companion along. Dogs are allowed on the trail as long as they’re leashed. The Riverplace Nature Trail is the perfect trail to spend an afternoon, and you’ll want to make plans to hike it soon.
What state park offers some of the best things to do outside in Texas?
For an adventure like no other, you’ll want to visit Palo Duro Canyon State Park, which happens to be one of the best parks in Texas. Palo Duro Canyon is known as the “Grand Canyon of Texas” and receives countless visitors each year. There are a variety of things to do outside in Texas, including several recreational activities you can take part in right here in Palo Duro Canyon State Park. From hiking and mountain biking, to camping and horseback riding, there’s an activity for everyone who wishes to explore this state park. In addition to its variety of recreational activities, many people also choose to visit Palo Duro Canyon State Park because of its unbelievable canyon views. They’re truly breathtaking!
