If you’re craving a weekend trip that delivers jaw-dropping scenery, epic hikes, and minimal crowds, this Carlsbad Caverns & Guadalupe Mountains National Park itinerary belongs at the top of your list.
In just one weekend, we explored the deepest cave in the U.S., hiked desert trails with dramatic canyon views, and stood on the highest point in Texas — all without needing a full week off work.
Here’s exactly how to plan the perfect weekend road trip to Carlsbad Caverns and Guadalupe Mountains National Parks.
Why Pair These Two National Parks?
Carlsbad Caverns and Guadalupe Mountains are only 35 miles apart, making them one of the best national park pairings in the Southwest.
- 🕳️ Carlsbad Caverns NP = underground wonder, minimal hiking
- ⛰️ Guadalupe Mountains NP = rugged hikes, wide-open views, fewer crowds
- 🚗 Short drive time = more exploring, less logistics
This combo is ideal for active couples, adventurous families, and road trippers who want variety without rushing.
Our Weekend at a Glance
- National Parks: 2
- Hikes: 3
- Miles Hiked: 18.6
- Base Town: Carlsbad, New Mexico
- Best For: Moderately active travelers who love scenery over crowds
Day 1: Carlsbad Caverns (Morning) + Devil’s Hall Trail (Afternoon)
Morning: Carlsbad Caverns National Park
Start your weekend underground.
Carlsbad Caverns is best first thing in the morning — fewer people, cooler desert temps outside, and plenty of time to explore without rushing.
Don’t Miss:
- Natural Entrance Trail (highly recommended)
Walking into the cavern from the natural entrance is unforgettable. You literally descend into the earth. - Big Room Loop
An easy, mostly flat walk that showcases the park’s most famous formations.
⏱️ Time Needed: 3–4 hours
👟 Footwear Tip: Sneakers or hiking shoes with grip — the cave floors can be slick.
Helpful Tips
- Reserve your timed entry ticket in advance.
- Bring layers — it’s cool inside year-round.
- Kids who can walk independently usually do great here.
After finishing the caverns, grab lunch in Carlsbad before heading west. We ate at the Visitor Center and had the green chili pork stew and it was delicious!
Afternoon: Devil’s Hall Trail (Guadalupe Mountains NP)
After lunch, drive about 45 minutes to Guadalupe Mountains National Park for your first hike.
- Distance: ~4.2 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Canyon walls, desert scenery, and a fun rock scramble at the end
This hike is a perfect afternoon option — adventurous but not exhausting, with plenty of payoff for the effort.
💡 Tip: Wear sturdy shoes and take your time on the rock scramble.
Return to Carlsbad, NM for dinner and a well-earned early night.
Day 2: Guadalupe Peak Trail (Highest Point in Texas)
Today is all about Guadalupe Peak — the highest point in Texas at 8,751 feet.
Guadalupe Peak Trail
- Distance: 8.4 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: ~3,000 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Why It’s Worth It: Endless desert views and serious bragging rights
Start early to avoid heat and wind near the summit. The trail is steady uphill the entire way, and the descent can be just as challenging as the climb.
Helpful Tips
- Wind at the top can be intense — pack layers even in warm months.
- Bring more water than you think you’ll need
- Electrolytes and peanut butter saved the day for us
Plan for 6–8 hours total, including breaks and time at the summit. It took us about 6 hours total, 3.5 to hike up to the peak, and then 2.5 hours to hike back down to the trailhead.
Why This Order Works So Well
✔️ Caverns when energy is high
✔️ Devil’s Hall as a “warm-up” hike
✔️ Peak hike gets its own day
✔️ No rushed mornings or dangerous fatigue
This pacing makes the weekend challenging but totally doable — even if you’re not a hardcore hiker.
Where to Eat in Carlsbad
After long hike days, these spots hit the spot:
- YellowBrix Restaurant – Great for dinner and cocktails
- El Diamante Restaurant– Delicious Mexican food
- Blue House Bakery – Perfect for breakfast before heading out
What I’d Do Differently Next Time
- Start Guadalupe Peak earlier (sunrise if possible)
- Bring trekking poles for the descent
Is This Weekend Trip Worth It?
Absolutely — if you:
✔️ Want fewer crowds
✔️ Love unique landscapes
✔️ Don’t mind earning your views
✔️ Want a national park trip that feels different
This is one of those weekends that sticks with you long after the sore legs fade.
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