Last updated: August 15, 2026
Thing to Do
Overnight on Wilderness Ridge
NPS Photo
The lesser used Permian Reef Trail leads to sheltered campsites and spectacular views into McKittrick Canyon, making a great destination of a one night, two day backpacking trip into the Wilderness.
Distance: 9.0 miles (14.5 km) round-trip, out and back
Elevation Change: 2,000 feet
Time Estimate: 3-4 hours to reach the campsites
Difficulty: Strenuous
Duration: Minimum of one night, two days.
Trailheads: Start and end at the McKittrick Canyon Trailhead.
Distance: 9.0 miles (14.5 km) round-trip, out and back
Elevation Change: 2,000 feet
Time Estimate: 3-4 hours to reach the campsites
Difficulty: Strenuous
Duration: Minimum of one night, two days.
Trailheads: 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.
Location
Wilderness Ridge Campsites
Learn more about the Wilderness Ridge Wilderness Campground.
Reservations
Yes
A Wilderness Use Permit is required for overnight use of any wilderness camping sites.
Season
Winter, Spring, Fall
The trail up to the top of the ridge can be hot and dangerously exposed during summer months.
Time of Day
Any Time
The McKittrick Canyon Trail complex is a day use area. Overnight parking is allowed only for Wilderness Use Permit 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.