Last updated: January 9, 2023
Thing to Do
Overnight on McKittrick Ridge
NPS Photo
The journey to the top of McKittrick Ridge is "the toughest hike in Texas." This very strenuous hike is best enjoyed as an overnight experience. This route takes you through MicKittrick Canyon up the steepest trail in the park. At the halfway point to the ridge is "The Notch", where there is a spectacular view of the canyon both directions. As you continue, don't be fooled by the false summits that make you think you've nearly reached the top!
Distance: 15.2 miles (24.5 km) round-trip, out and back
Elevation Change: 2,700 feet
Time Estimate: 4-6 hours to reach the campsites
Difficulty: Strenuous
Duration: Minimum of one night, two days.
Trailhead: Start and end at the McKittrick Canyon Trailhead.
Distance: 15.2 miles (24.5 km) round-trip, out and back
Elevation Change: 2,700 feet
Time Estimate: 4-6 hours to reach the campsites
Difficulty: Strenuous
Duration: Minimum of one night, two days.
Trailhead: Start and end at the McKittrick Canyon Trailhead.
Details
Duration
2-3 Days
The need to carry all water with you is the primary limiting factor for all Wilderness trips in the Guadalupe Mountains.
Activity
Backcountry Camping
A Wilderness Use Permit is required for overnight use of any wilderness camping sites.
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. A Wilderness Use Permit fee is required for all overnight use of any wilderness camping sites.
Location
McKittrick Ridge Wilderness Campground
From McKittrick Canyon trailhead, the distance is 7.6 miles, with the elevation gain (significant for quite some distance) of over 2,700 feet. If you'd like to visit this beautiful ridge without quite the workout, begin instead at Dog Canyon.
Reservations
Yes
A Wilderness Use Permit is required for overnight use of any wilderness camping sites.
Season
Year Round
Time of Day
Any Time
The McKittrick Canyon Trail complex is designated a day use area below the McKittrick Ridge Wilderness Campground. Overnight parking is allowed only for Wilderness Use Permits users on backpacking trips. The gate to the canyon closes daily at 5:00 p.m. Mountain Time. Visitors must be out of the area before the gate closure time.
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.
