31 Bucket List National Parks That Are Surprisingly Underrated

By

Akanksha Sharma

June 2, 2025

6. Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Guadalupe Mountains National Park at night. Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons @National Park Service Digital Image Archives

Situated in West Texas, Guadalupe Mountains National Park is a hidden gem that offers a diverse array of landscapes and outdoor activities. The park is home to the highest peak in Texas, Guadalupe Peak, which offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding desert. Hikers can explore a variety of trails that wind through the park's rugged canyons, lush woodlands, and expansive desert plains. The park's unique geology is a testament to its ancient past, with fossilized reef formations dating back over 250 million years. This rich history is on display at the McKittrick Canyon Visitor Center, where visitors can learn about the park's geological and cultural heritage. Whether you're scaling the heights of Guadalupe Peak or exploring the park's hidden canyons, Guadalupe Mountains National Park offers an unforgettable desert adventure.

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