Permian Reef Trail and McKittrick Canyon Nature Trail

This log covers my hike of the Permian Reef Trail and the McKittrick Canyon Nature Trail.

In my opinion, the Permian Reef Trail is one of the better trails to hike in Guadalupe Mountains National Park.  It isn't too long, but it challenges you with a lot of elevation gain.  You can ask for an interpretive map at the Visitor's Center there so you can appreciate all of the numbered exhibits along the trail.  It's basically a natural, outdoor museum that is very interesting and educational.

The most amazing thing to me is when you reach the top of the ridge.  Instantly, you come out of a desert-like environment and are transported into a green forest environment!  The trail continues on along the ridge and provides spectacular views of the canyons below.  The trail officially ends at a turnstyle (near the TX/NM border) but if you are prepared you can keep hiking through the Guadalupe Mountains all the way to Carlsbad Caverns National Park about 38 miles away.

Overall, this is a great hike.  Do it!  :)

After descending down the reef back to the Visitor's Center, I also decided to hike the McKittrick Canyon Nature Trail.  I wasn't very impressed with this loop trail, however, as there wasn't much too see.