Foothills Loop

View towards Frijole Ranch from the Foothills Loop.

NPS Photograph

This moderate loop route uses the Frijole Trail and the Foothills Trail to make a loop below the eastern escarpment of the Guadalupe Mountains. Excellent views up Bear Canyon and toward El Capitan can be found along the trail. It's not unusual to spot deer along the trail. This trail can be hiked high to low (Frijole Trail first) or low to high (Foothills Trail first).

Distance: 4.5 miles (7.2 km) round-trip from Frijole Ranch; 5.5 miles (8.9 km) round-trip from Pine Springs
Elevation Change: 800 feet 
Time Estimate: 2-4 hours 
Difficulty: Moderate
Trailheads: This loop can begin either at Pine Springs or the Frijole Ranch.
Trails: Portions of the Foothills and Frijole Trails are used to make a loop. 

Details

Duration

2-4 Hours

Activity

Hiking

Start at either the Frijole Ranch Trailhead or the Pine Springs Trailhead and use the Frijole and Foothills Trails to form a loop hike along the lower edge of the Guadalupe Mountains escarpment. 

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

No

Season

Year Round

While this is generally a year-round route in good weather, the Foothills Loop will be open and exposed to high temperatures from late summer through early Fall. 

Time of Day

Day, Dawn, Dusk

If hiking in the late afternoon, be sure to carry flashlights and headlamps.

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.