The drive to Carlsbad, NM included a stop at Guadalupe National Park, within the borders on Texas and New Mexico. Considering all the haphazard events that occured on our drive from Lajitas, we were very leary about taking the rig off-road to Dog Canyon (60 miles off-road driving) to reach the hiking trails in fear we would have another flat and be away from any passersby. A short hike looking up at El Capitan was enough but the history surrounding the mountain was the true gem. Guadalupe Peak is the highest point in Texas at 8,749 feet. There are no roads or motorized vehicles allowed, only hiking and horseback trails. The Guadalupe Peak Trail offers the most amazing views of El Capitan and the Chihuahuan Desert. There are several old ruins along the trails that were built in the 1930's.

I would recommend planning a stay in Dog Canyon and doing the hike up the peak to get the full view of this great mountain.