Guadalupe Mountains National Park hiking guide
McKittrick Canyon
A 4.8-mile out-and-back with 350 ft of climbing in McKittrick Canyon, rated moderate.
Key facts
- Length
- 4.8 mi (7.7 km)
- Elevation gain
- 350 ft (108 m)
- Route type
- Out and back
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Area
- McKittrick Canyon
- Highest point
- 5,209 ft
- Lowest point
- 4,998 ft
About McKittrick Canyon
Desert gives way to shady riparian woodland as the path follows a stream up the canyon in the Guadalupe Mountains. Expect several creek crossings, the historic Pratt Cabin and a picnic spot at the Grotto. Beyond the Grotto the grade steepens, with switchbacks climbing toward the Notch. In late spring the trees fill with tanagers, warblers and hummingbirds.
Route map
This route was checked by Parka editors.
