I'm sure most of you West Texas Ags have been to Guadalupe National Park, but wanted to tell you what an amazingly beautiful area this is. Me, my wife, two sons (5 and 8 years old), their Grandpa, and one of my nephews made the hike to Guadalupe Peak yesterday, and let me say that this was MUCH more challenging than I had imagined. Fortunately, I didn't know that when we started, and once we were 2+ hours in, there was no sense in turning back. However, the trails (to me, and I'm not a seasoned hiker) were very challenging. Lots of large steps (especially for little ones), and in certain areas the trail was extremely close to some straight down drop-offs.

I was incredibly stressed worrying about the kids, and the 5-year old had two melt-downs on the way up, but we let the group keep going, talked about he and his daddy doing it together, and did it.

We all made the summit after 4-1/2 hours and we celebrated with a big hug and a prayer at the tallest point in Texas.

I'd HIGHLY recommend this to anyone looking for a challenge, and an event that you will always be able to look back on with great memories.

Gig'EM,
Muy

Definately, love those mountains. Actually hunt black powder deer on the New Mexico side of the border. At the top of McKitrick Canyon it is beautiful at knight. The good ole West Texas Milky Way is so bright you don't need a flash light.

Your story reminds me of many a deep breath getting up there. LOL, lots of rests sitting on a rock under a pinion pine or two.

That trail leads to the Tallest poin in Texas.

Did you sign the register? It's a battle getting up there.

Isn't it beautiful, and worth the trip when you get to the top? We took my in-laws up. Of course it was all of our first time up the peak, but the in-laws first hike of that nature - ever. we had to take it slow, so we didn't get discouraged, but at the end it was awesome. i think it took 5 hours up and only one hour down.

if you like that... you MUST go to Big Bend NP. it's one of Texas' great treasures. Camp in the Chisos Basin, and make some hikes. best time of year is April & October. Emory is the highest peak in the park... last bit is basically rock climbing and probably is too much for young children, and older adults. however the hike up there is not bad, and it is breath taking. Also, Lost Mine Trail, and the Window are good short hikes, with great views.

Camped there this last weekend and took a few photos.

http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff290/Calculi66/DSC00318.jpg

http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff290/Calculi66/DSC00301.jpg

http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff290/Calculi66/DSC00321.jpg

Did Guadalupe Peak on Saturday and spent the night. Came back down on Sunday AM. Well worth the extra work to haul a pack up. Got a little late start, but got to summit right at sunset. BEAUTIFUL.

[This message has been edited by BQ89AG (edited 11/13/2007 1:52p).]

Can't beat the sunsets and night skies of West Texas. No where else in the world like it!