Hiking off-trail

A view of Guadalupe and El Capitan peaks from an off-trail vantage point.

NPS Photo

A new kind of experience in the Guadalupe Mountains starts where the maintained trail ends. However, off-trail hiking requires planning and preparation and carries a great deal of risk. 

Overestimating your ability and underestimating the challenges found in the Guadalupe Mountains can have serious consequences. The park expects visitors to exhibit a high degree of self-reliance and responsibility for their own safety.

Any person or persons planning to hike off trail in the park must obtain a Special Use Permit before they attempt the hike. If you are unsure that your proposed route falls under this policy, please contact permit staff.

Restrictions and Conditions

• Off-trail hiking groups may not be bigger than 6 persons.

• Permittees will be issued a Garmin InReach unit. This GPS tracking unit must be always on and turned in when the hike is finished.

• The permittee must possess, carry, and use a paper topographic map of the park.

• All off-trail routes are day use only. No overnight camping is authorized in these areas.

• Permittee must submit a proposed itinerary with their permit application

• If applicable, the permittee must obtain all necessary wilderness permits prior to the activity. Entrance fees and other permit fees will not be waived.

• Activity monitoring and cost-recovery charges may be required. Permit coordinators can help determine potential costs, if any, for the activity.

• Permit holders will be required to carry a minimum of one bag per person for the day for the duration of their off-trail trip and present proof that they have the required number of bags before their permit will be issued.

• All other administrative restrictions and closures apply.

Details

Duration

1-8 Hours

Activity

Off-Trail Permitted Hiking

Any person or persons planning to hike off trail in the park must obtain a Special Use Permit before they attempt the hike. If you are unsure that your proposed route falls under this policy, please contact permit staff.

Pets Allowed

No

Pets disturb wildlife and are not allowed on trails. Your pets should remain at home as opportunities for pets are very limited in the park.

Activity Fee

Yes

Park entry fee required for all adult visitors.

Reservations

Yes

A Special Use Permit is required for all proposed off-trail hiking. 

Season

Spring, Fall

Time of Day

Day

Permitted off-trail hiking is limited to day use only, but could be combined with a seperate overnight Wilderness Use Permit. 

Accessibility Information

Trail surfaces are loose rock or hardened rock surfaces. Hiking or trekking poles are highly recommended. Trail widths vary from two to six feet depending on the trail. 

Parking

All trailhead areas have accessible parking available. 

Service animals 

Only service animals that have been individually trained to perform specific tasks for the benefit of persons with disabilities are allowed in the park and on trails.