Discover An Ancient Reef in West Texas

In far west Texas, along the southern border of New Mexico, lies Guadalupe Mountains National Park. The unique geology, miles of hiking trails, and fossil forests are just some of the features that attract visitors to this magnificent mountain range. Bounded by the desert and pine forests, this is one of the most diverse parks in the Southwest US.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park preserves one of the finest examples of ancient fossil reef on Earth. During the Permian Age (250 million years ago), a vast inland sea covered much of the Texas. Calcareous sponges, algae, and other lime-secreting marine organisms formed the reef that paralleled the shoreline for 400 miles.

When the ocean evaporated, the reef was buried in a thick blanket of sediment, basically runoff from the Rockies. Eventually, uplift exposed massive portions of the El Capitan Reef here and in the Delaware, Apache and Glass Mountains. Other interesting geologic features include Carlsbad Caverns in New Mexico.

With over 80 miles of trails, most visitors may enjoy the park by hiking. Trails lead to Guadalupe Peak, around the base of El Capitan, up to the high country, and into McKittrick Canyon. You will need a 4×4 to journey far by wheels.

There are two campgrounds in the park with RV spaces and tent sites, water and restrooms. Dog Canyon Campground is nestled in a secluded, forested canyon on the north side of the park. Located just off Highway 62/180 near the Visitor Center is the Pine Springs Campground. No reservations are accepted.

If you are a seasoned backpacker, you might want to camp in the backcountry, which is free. Horseback riding also requires a free permit that can be obtained at the Headquarters Visitor Center or at the Dog Canyon Ranger Station. Take a look at the detailed map or the large map of the area.

From the rocky high country with pine, fir and aspen, to the desert sands with cacti, yucca and sotol, explore this wonderland of ancient sea, sand and limestone. Nowhere else but Texas!

Posted by CyberCelt under Uncategorized