Trail
: Guadalupe Mountain National ParkTrail Rating : This is a tough trail. While the notes say that it has 750' of elevation gain, I found that it is probably double that. This is a good training run for rough trail ultras.
Description : The park has a number of trails in it ranging from 4 miles to 15 miles. The elevation gains on the trails also vary. El Capitan is about 1500' Guadalupe Peak 3000', The Bowl Trail 2500'. There are additional trails starting from other trailheads that have both distance and elevation challenges. A number of the trails have very rough footing, but as long as it is not asphalt it is fine with me. The El Capitan trail is described as a moderate hike with a 4-6 hour time. Most sections are moderate, but there are a couple that are challenging. The trail negotiates three canyons , which add profile to the trail. In a couple of the canyons there are small trees that provide a bit of shade, but the trail is out in the open for 98% of its length. These are probably not a good trails for summer running, spring and fall are probably the best. My run was on May 14, 75 degree max with a good deal of wind. For me it was a cool run.
Length : 11.3 miles - El Capitan - Out and back using the Salt Trail Overlook at the far end..
Footing : The footing ranges from great to rough. Many small stones in the trail and there are sections with larger rocks to work around. You also have to watch for the cactus along the trail. Some grow close and you can catch their thorns.
Terrain Profile : There is a lot of climbing in both directions. The canyons mentioned above break up and otherwise fairly level trail around the base of the El Capitan feature. You initially climb about 100' from the trailhead to get to the main trail level, the trail then rolls for about 2 miles. Next it dives into a canyon, out onto the slope, back into a canyon at the base of the feature, back to the slope and finally down a long canyon on the Salt Trail.
Water Availability : Carry it. Available at camp ground.
Access : Parking area a trail head above the visitors center.
Other Users : Horses, but saw none.
Nearest City : Carlsbad,NM
Driving Directions : South on US 62 about 45 miles to visitors center.
Latitude : N 31.9 Degrees
Longitude :W 104.83 Degrees
Altitude : 5824 ft