Texas’ Highest Peak & Ancient Oceans: Guadalupe Mountains National Park

We’re heading to one of the most underrated national parks in the entire country — Guadalupe Mountains National Park in far West Texas! Rising over 3,000 feet above the Chihuahuan Desert, these mountains hide a jaw-dropping secret: they’re actually the remains of a 260–270-million-year-old reef that once sat at the bottom of an ancient tropical sea.In this episode, we explore the natural wonders, rich cultural history, and best hiking options at Guadalupe Mountains — including trails perfect for the 50+ crowd who love a great adventure without the extremes.⏱️ WHAT WE COVER IN THIS EPISODE:✅ The geology behind these ancient mountains — 260–270 million years in the making✅ The 10,000-year human story: Mescalero Apache, Buffalo Soldiers & the Butterfield Stagecoach✅ Best hikes for every level (easy strolls to the highest peak in Texas)✅ McKittrick Canyon — Texas’ best fall foliage destination✅ First-timer tips: what to know before you go✅ Why this park belongs on EVERY Texas bucket list📌 PARK QUICK FACTS:Located in: Hudspeth & Culberson Counties, West Texas | On US Hwy 62/180Established: September 30, 1972 | Authorized: 1966Size: 86,416 acres | 80+ miles of trailsHighest Point: Guadalupe Peak, 8,751 ft (highest in Texas!)Entrance Fee: $10/person | Annual Pass acceptedVisitor Info: nps.gov/gumo | 915-828-3251🌟 BEST HIKES WE RECOMMEND:Easy: Pinery Trail (0.75 mi round-trip) | Smith Spring Loop (2.3 mi)Moderate: McKittrick Canyon to Pratt Cabin (4.6 mi) | McKittrick to Grotto (6.8 mi)Strenuous: Guadalupe Peak Summit Trail (8.5 mi, 3,000 ft gain)📹 Two Chicks with Hiking Sticks is a Two Chicks Production podcast and YouTube channel dedicated to exploring the rich intersections of culture, history, and the natural world — with a special love for National Park Service sites and local hidden gems.🔔 SUBSCRIBE so you never miss an adventure!👍 Like this video if it helped you plan your visit!💬 Drop your Guadalupe Mountains questions or memories in the comments! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.