First off, the visitor center has a water filling station, nice restrooms and amazing employees…read more Their gift shop is really small compared to other national parks but they have a good variety of items to choose from. This park is on mountain time- remember that- even if your phone keeps jumping back and forth between the time zones. I hiked the Guadalupe Peak Trail and oh my goodness such an amazing hike. I started early and made sure to have plenty of water. When I was coming down, I was a little surprised by how many people were starting the hike... in June at the hottest time of the day. Make sure to be prepared and enjoy all the breathtaking sights.

So I spent part of the week here exploring and I really enjoyed my time here. It is the smaller…read moreNational Park in Texas on about 85,000 acres (compared to Big Bend National Park which is 800,000 acres) but still plenty to explore. This park is more for folks that really like to hike, explore and camp. There are a few entry points into the park but there really is no scenic routes through the park. You are expected to park somewhere and walk to your destination instead which I find very interesting to do (can see alot more too). I've visiting the frijole ranch that had a small museum inside explaining the history of the park. Attach to it there are a few trails you can take off to do. I did the smith springs and it was very pretty to see. Once you manage to get up the hill there were some seats and rails you can hang onto and relax while watching the spring. I also did the Guadalupe Mountain Peak trail, which is the highest peak in Texas. That one takes about 6 to 8 hours to hike (round trip) and it had amazing views. There was also a mark at the to there you can take a picture too which was cool. Definitely need to be prepped to do this or any of the hikes (water, food, first aid, hiking stick and good hiking boots). The Salt Basin Dunes were also really nice to explore but expect to do half a day here. That one you drive over dirt road to get to but very nice views of the mountain. It also had a place you can use the restroom and sit down to eat. The place is exactly what you expect...alot of sand hills you can climb but very soft and cooling (just watch your step). I didn't get to explore all the park since there was a government shut down and closed one of the trails I wanted to do but overall It was definitely worth the trip to visit. I plan to come back next year when it's not too hot (best time for fall colors and cool air for tough hikes). I would absolutely recommend anyone to at least check this park out at least once in your life. Make sure do your research and bring what you need.

A beautiful waterfall, out in the middle of nowhere. It was about an hour from Carlsbad, & you may…read moreas well plan a half day trip there to make it worth your while It can get very busy, so you will have to explore the creek, & other areas, to find a good spot to sit & relax in the water No gas stations out there, or food of any sort. You are in the middle of nowhere lol service is very spotty, so come prepared. There are bathrooms though, & some shelters with tables if you plan on staying to eat & relax

Best part was the falls. Otherwise windy, unsteady terrain with mid views of a lot of brownread more

Here's a more natural, conversational version:…read more Carlsbad Caverns completely exceeded my expectations. Pictures don't do it justice--the caverns are absolutely huge, and the rock formations are incredible. We decided to walk in through the natural entrance, and although it's a steep descent (over 800 feet), it was well worth it. We explored the entire cavern and took the elevator back up, which took us about 3 hours at a relaxed pace. The trails are paved, easy to follow, and very well maintained. Everything is beautifully lit, making it easy to appreciate all the amazing stalactites, stalagmites, and other rock formations along the way. The staff were friendly and helpful, the restrooms were clean, and I thought it was great that they even have kennels available if you're traveling with pets. There's also a small gift shop inside by the elevator, and once you're back up top, you'll find two more gift shops and a café. If you're visiting when it's offered, don't skip the evening bat flight program. It's such a unique experience and the perfect way to end your visit. I would absolutely recommend Carlsbad Caverns to anyone--it's one of those places you have to see in person.

First time here and was staying close by Carlsbad. Getting here super easy for a National Park…read more Parking was easy and close to the visitor center. Visitor center gives a great overlooking view of the valley below. Great educational preview for the caves and bat show. Wear good shoes you will be walking down A Lot ! No flops or crocks your feet will hate you. Bring a backpack for a light jacket and flashlights are allowed. Good for looking into some deep portions of the cave. I brought 2 flashlights one that clipped on my backpack and aimed down so I can see my footing. There are some wet spots in the cave and slipping IS a Possibility. Second one was bright enough to look into deep openings around the caves. My EDC is a Wurkkos TD11 has up to 3k Lumen which is plenty. The pack also had some snacks that you can only eat at the bottom where the food court is. Brought 2 water bottles that were packed with ice and electrolytes. Now the big issue. Cell phones are great but I also brought my insta360 x5. Good for low light and extra batteries. No one up top told me I couldn't bring it in. Mind you I was using just the standard stick. Yes it extends but I only used it as the short stick. I also did bring a clip on rig just in case. 3/4 down was stopped by one Ranger and told yes as long as I didn't extend the stick it was ok. At the bottom by the food court another ranger told me no MUST put it away period. Fine for the main big chamber I used the clip on mount to get my shots. Just be aware that Rangers vary. Yes I was responsible and didn't interfere with the environment. Just wanted to capture the beauty. Now the rest of the story. Lots and lots of down hill switchbacks. Tons of spots to take AMAZING pictures. The bats are just below the entrance of the caves and in a separate chamber. You can spot a few outside that chamber. Way way way way way down you go switchback and beautiful spots of picture taking. Blown away and the final Big chamber. If your planing go for the Ranger led tour as it will bring you further down into deeper chambers! Remember camera restriction as mentioned. Handicap can take an elevator down to the main chamber so they can experience the awe. As for going back up 2 options elevator or hike back up. I love my hips and knees so I chose elevator. As for the bat show. Get there 630pm ish is fine show starts 730p-830p. but do know that if its windy (past 20mph) no bat show as the bats are too small to battle hight winds. If you miss it there is live viewing on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/live/BwiIsjXt3KI?si=uf5eNH9g2KD0hnfl

Entry fee is only $10. Living desert portion is much more extensive than I anticipated. When you…read morecome, be sure to bring suntan lotion and a water bottle. There are a few refilling stations in the center and on the grounds.

The male officer park worker (biologist?) was very kind and helpful, as was every employee I…read moreencountered. But, the facility is completely run-down. I have been there at least 4 times since the early 70's. The electronic exhibits/demonstrations are mostly broken. About 60% of the animals are missing. The brush and dead trees/plants/limbs have grown up in the cages. The ponds are invested with algae and the buildings are worn out and falling apart with rust and rotting wood. It would take about $10 million to overhaul. Unbelievable that any state would allow such a once great facility to fall in such a state of disrepair. It's a shame the liberal/democrat machine that runs N.M. doesn't value the Living Desert Zoo!

Didn't have a chance to make it through the end and back but such a great hike! This trail is to…read morethe left of slaughter canyon trail/cave trail. Be cautious of snakes as we did encounter one randomly, it was a black tail rattlesnake. It was scary and awesome at the same time. Along the trail it'll be rocky, sandy, dirt trail. You'll see different kinds of wild plants. Tips: bring water, nice hiking shoe, long sleeve t shirt and comfy pants as the grass around the area my be high, hats, sunscreen, tweezers- in case of thorns from plants, and a camera

Beautiful, quiet park with clean camping facilities. Has restrooms and showers. Great sleeping in…read morethe Chihuahua desert. Close proximity to White Sands and Los Alamos. There is the Dog Canyon trail, which is worth the trek. We didn't make it all the way through due to timing, but will definitely be back to finish.

Quiet and spacious campground for star gazing and close to White Sands NP. We would definitely stay…read morehere again. Friendly camp hosts. They also have sleds to borrow at the camp host station for sledding the dunes at White Sands.

This small state park ROCKS!!!…read more We attended the second day of the 2025 Hueco Tanks Community Fair Day, it was pretty nice. They had Gozo ice cream and other local vendors in attendance, but the biggest thing was that the park showed out it rare side. We went out on an afternoon hike of Mescalero Canyon with volunteers Phil and Courtney, they were great at getting us out as far as the pond enroute to Tabloid Pass. It was rare to see how green the Tanks were. We got to see one of the major pictographs on the Atlaloc Pass that looked like a frog and a tortoise. We zoomed back to the interpretive center. We were able to explore a little on the Las Tinajas side of the North Mountain. Great time today, and looking forward to some good camping on the next visit to Hueco Tanks.

What an amazing hidden gem! In town for a visit and my friend suggested this place to explore. I'm…read moreso glad she did. We did the self guided side and we took our time so it was around 2 hours. Anyone can do the trip, but if you want to climb be sure to bring proper footwear. It was such a great time and can't wait to come back and do the guided tours next time. The staff are just lovely and helpful. Go do it if you haven't!

Great Trail, very beautiful, some of the largest pine trees I've ever seen. Trail is 1.5 miles long…read moreand it's pretty much at an 8 to 14% grade all the way up the canyon to the top. At the top there are several other trailheads that start and you can continue or head back down to the parking area. At the parking area there is an old corral that is still used today as we were there a couple of cowboys pulled up with their horses and had cows in the corral they were loading up.

Exhilarating trail in Guadalupe Mountains National Park. Heed the MANY warnings that the staff…read moreoffer up ahead of time, bring plenty of water, sun protection, and solid footwear. This is a challenging hike! I loved the trail because it's almost four or five hikes combined into one. You'll move through different segments that each have their own "feel" to them, from the arid climb up front, to the green portions in the middle, to the footbridge and campsite, and finally the exposed rugged rocks at the top. The climb involves lots of loose rock, but it never felt like a true scramble until a very small portion near the top; it's not the most technically challenging, but it is physically demanding. And be warned, the trail is very narrow and exposed at the peak! If you are scared of heights like me, it's a challenge because of the narrow ledge and the steep drop. The last tenth of a mile is pretty scary right before the peak. Great hike to challenge yourself and get rewarded with amazing views!

The Guadalupe Peak Trail Hike was one of my most memorable hikes…read more Maybe because it was the Top of Texas, y'all. Lol. I was a chaperone for the Backpacking and Camping class through New Mexico Junior College back in 2009. We started at the Pine Springs Trailhead parking lot. I cannot remember how long it took us, but with a group of course we had to stay together. Even though the highest peak in Texas is not at all like the New Mexico and Colorado heights I grew up around, it was still breathtaking. Very cool experience. The wildlife was amazing. The weather was fairly warm, but it can change in a hurry. I keep thinking about this trip for some reason. I have throughout the years. It was fun. I cannot wait to bring my girls here... Use the usual precautions... Bring water, hiking boots, a light jacket, sunscreen, snacks, etc. Pack it in, pack it out.

I had a great experience bouldering with Blue Lizard Climbing and Yoga in Hueco Tanks. They…read moreprovided guiding services for my partner, two friends, and me (4 people total). Our guide Steve support us with hauling pads and setting up below climbs. He shared beta (only when we wanted it and without spraying), taught us about the historic significance of the park, and helped us respect the land's integrity while we were climbing together. Steve has a positive spirit and love for climbing that made the experience extra special. I recommend Blue Lizard Climbing & Yoga to anyone who wants to boulder at Hueco Tanks.

I cannot stress enough how top notch Blue Lizzard Climbing and Yoga is!…read more Myself and three friends went out bouldering with Stephen in Heuco tanks. I have worked previously for guide companies, so I say this with a certain level of authority. Stephen was knowledgeable, professional, personable and an over all incredible guide. He went far above and beyond what I would a have expected of a single guide. I fully expected to more or less just be paying for access to the park and maybe someone to show us where certain problems were. Not only did they manage all permit issues, but Stephen joined in humping pads, knew not only where the climbs were but also about the geology and history of the park, knew where the cave art was, was knowledgeable about beta when we got stuck, led in managing pads to ensure safety, and on top of that he took pictures and was a fun guy to spend a day with. Superb service! I'll be looking them up again next time I'm around.