Last updated: December 18, 2022
Thing to Do
Marcus Overlook
NPS Photo
Hiking the Bush Mountain Trail from Dog Canyon out to the Marcus Overlook and back makes an excellent and usually solitary day hike in the Guadalupe Mountains. From the Marcus Overlook, there are commanding views south into the Guadalupe Mountains and westward.
Distance: 5.2 miles (8.4 km) round-trip, out and back
Elevation Change: 825 feet
Time Estimate: 3-5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Details
Duration
3-5 Hours
Activity
Hiking
This is a straighforward out and back hike on a lesser trafficked trail in the northern part of the park.
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.
Location
Begin at the Dog Canyon Trailhead
From the Dog Canyon Trailhead, follow the Bush Mountain Trail 2.6 miles to reach the Marcus Overlook. At this point, marked with a hitching post, the trail begins to descend rapidly. Stopping here affords a striking view to the west and south.
Reservations
No
Season
Winter, Spring, Fall
Even with the higher elevations on the northern part of the park, summer temperatures may make this hike unsafe or at the very least unpleasant. Expect high winds (in excess of 30MPH from November through March). This route on the northern portion of the Bush Mountain Trail has little to no shade.
Time of Day
Day
Hiking the Bush Mountain Trail from Dog Canyon out to the Marcus Overlook and back makes an excellent and usually solitary day hike in the Guadalupe Mountains.
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.