Thing to Do
Permian Reef Trail
NPS Photo
The Permian Reef Trail climbs the north side of McKittrick Canyon to the top of Wilderness Ridge, providing sweeping views into South McKittrick Canyon. At the park boundary, and state line, the trail continues into New Mexico and the Lincoln National Forest. The slopes above the canyon face south, thereby receiving full sun all day, hence the hike is best avoided during hot periods in summer.
Distance: 4.0 miles (6.4 km) to top of ridge; 4.5 miles (7.2 km) to Wilderness Ridge Campground; 4.8 miles (7.7 km) to park boundary (one way distances)
Elevation Change: 2,000 feet
Time Estimate: 5-7 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
In addition to providing sweeping views of the landscape, the trail was designed to showcase the Permian age geologic and fossil features preserved in the park. For those with a serious interest in Geology, a detailed guidebook for the features seen along the trail from the Texas Bureau of Economic Geology can be purchased at the visitor center.
Details
Duration
5-7 Hours
Activity
Hiking
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.
Reservations
No
Season
Winter, Spring, Fall
The slopes above the canyon face south so receive full sun all day, hence the hike is best avoided during hot periods in summer.
Time of Day
Day
McKittrick Canyon is a day use area. The gate to the canyon closes daily at 5:00 p.m. Mountain Time. Day use visitors must be out of the area before the gate closure time. Overnight parking is allowed only for Wilderness Use Permit holders backpacking to the Wilderness Ridge Campground.
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.
Last updated: December 11, 2022