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Guadalupe Mountains National ParkAn outstanding sunrise on El Capitan is a common occurance.
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Welcome to Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Guadalupe Mountains National Park safeguards the world's finest example of a fossilized reef, a surprisingly complex and unique assemblage of flora and fauna, and West Texas' only legally designated wilderness. Here, one can experience solitude, tranquility, and the joy of finding plants and animals whose mastery of survival renews our sense of wonder.
 
Refreshing natural surroundings entice vsitors to relax and enjoy the park.

Exploring the Park

As a hikers’ paradise, you will find more than 80 miles of trails that meander through woodland canyons and lush riparian springs, or zigzag up steep switchbacks directly into the park’s rugged wilderness. Many trails are available for horseback riding if you bring your own stock. The park is a wonderful place to look at fossils and learn about Permian Age geology, enjoy bird watching and wildlife observation, delve into nature photography, or enjoy unlimited opportunities for stargazing under pristine night skies.
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Bees are significant pollinators of most wildflower species.

Nature and Science

As part of the nation's rock collection and an outstanding outdoor laboratory, Guadalupe Mountains National Park offers limitless opportunities for everyone to learn about its unique resources. Professional scientists and amateur naturalists alike will find the rewards of the park to be many. 
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Crumbling walls are all that's left of the old Butterfield stage station.

History and Culture

The rich and diverse array of cultural resources at Guadalupe Mountains National Park, and the natural setting that remains relatively unchanged from that experienced by early peoples, provide opportunities to explore and ponder survival, conflict, cooperation, heritage, and interconnections with the land.
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Butterfield Overland Mail Stage

150th Anniversary of the Butterfield Overland Mail

Guadalupe Mountains National Park celebrated the 150th Anniversary of the Butterfield Overland Mail on September 27-28, 2008. Festivities included stage coach rides, chuck wagon bar-be-que, living history programs, muleshoeing demonstrations, and guided hikes. The park also had a commemorative postal cancellation. The celebration was a huge success with large numbers in attendance on both days.
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Write to

Guadalupe Mountains National Park
400 Pine Canyon Road
Salt Flat, Texas 79847

E-mail Us

Phone

Headquarters Visitor Center (Pine Springs)
(915) 828-3251

Dog Canyon Ranger Station
(575) 981-2418

Fax

(915) 828-3269

Climate

Visitors may generally expect relatively hot summers, calm, mild autumn weather, and cool to cold weather in winter and early spring. Snow storms, freezing rain, or fog may occur in winter or early spring. Frequent high wind warnings are issued winter through spring. Late summer monsoons produce thunderstorms. Cool nights, even in summer.
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Butterflyweed attracts many species of butterflies with its bright orange flowers and sugary nectar.  

Did You Know?
Butterflyweed (Asclepias tuberosa), was a significant medicinal source for physicians in the late 19th century who used it extensively as an expectorant and to treat smallpox. It bright-orange blossoms produce an irresistible nectar for butterflies, and thus its common name.

Last Updated: September 29, 2008 at 17:13 EST