The Underrated Hiking Trail In Texas' Guadalupe Mountains National Park That Leads To A Hidden Cave
By Katie Lawrence|Published March 10, 2022
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
Texas is brimming with cool caves to explore, but most have been developed and heavily commercialized. Nestled in the vast desert landscape of Guadalupe Mountains National Park, there’s an underrated trail that leads to a cave few know exists. The trail is moderately difficult and relatively short, making it ideal for families. Plus, who could pass up the chance to discover a hidden cave in Texas?
The entire McKittrick Canyon Trail is a whopping 20 miles long, but there's a shorter version that's only eight miles round-trip. It connects to several other trails, making it perfect for either a quick day hike or add-on to a longer adventure.
Your journey begins at the McKittrick Canyon Visitors Center, right near the entrance to the park. From there, you'll begin an uphill trek into the mountains, leaving the rest of the world further behind with every step you take.
...which happens to be something pretty spectacular. The Grotto is a hidden cave about midway along the trail, and it harbors ancient secrets within its craggy walls.
You'll see all sorts of interesting rock formations, many of which look the same as they did eons ago. Since this trail isn't as heavily trafficked as some others in the park, nature is preserved in its truest and most original form.
Home to the world's largest Permian fossil reef, the Guadalupe Mountains are full of archaic sea creatures. There's even a small amount of water remaining, which the trail parallels.
If you're into history, you're in for a treat. A short detour off the trail takes you to Pratt Lodge, the summer home of the man who donated the land that would later become Guadalupe Mountains National Park.
All four seasons are beautiful here, but the fall foliage is especially resplendent. Robust amber, golden, and maroon hues light up the desert landscape like you've never seen it before. The spring wildflowers are worth seeing, too!
Have you ever hiked the McKittrick Canyon Trail? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience! Tell us in the comments. Don’t forget to check out our previous article for another hidden cave in Texas!
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