Cool nights, even in summer. Loose, comfortable clothing, sturdy walking shoes, hat, sunscreen, and plenty of drinking water. McKittrick Canyon Visitor Center is accessible. Getting Around Access roads to trailheads only. Eighty-plus miles of trails, ranging in difficulty from easy to strenuous.
Trails are rocky and often steep and rugged.
Trails lead to Guadalupe Peak, around the base of El Capitan, up into the high country and across the top of the escarpment, and into McKittrick Canyon. Self-guided nature trails are located at McKittrick Canyon, Pinery trail at Pine Springs and Indian Meadow Trail at Dog Canyon. Ten back-country campgrounds require a free permit that may be obtained in person at the Headquarters Visitor Center or the Dog Canyon Ranger Station. Water available at trailheads. There is no water in park's backcountry.