People in west Texas are usually surprised to learn that there are swamps with alligators in them surrounded by lush forests in east Texas. I grew up in west Texas and have lived in east Texas and it is totally different. ...People in west Texas don’t know what a kolache is!!...at least I didn’t know until I was in my mid-20s! Anyone other than people who have driven through Alaska would have their mind blow to drive from Houston to Big Bend National Park and still be in the same state they started in 700 miles later!!
I was injured in highschool as a cheerleader......so both my knees are trashed..surgery on both......I can walk, but i would never be able to do this...so THANKyou for taking along for the ride!!!!
I've watched this video several time before and I love it each time. I can't get to Texas next week but I am hiking up the Appalachian Trail to its highest point--Clingmans Dome, Tennessee. I was sorry to see the fire on Emery Peak. We were just there three weeks ago.
I subbed to your channel and watched all of your Guadalupe videos at least once. As a result, I had planned a multi-day backpacking trip up there at the end of November. I even planned a few off-trail options. I may have to postpone the trip given the pandemic and the national parks' reluctance so far to let people back into the backcountry to camp. Regardless, I want to thank you for sharing your GuMo adventures with us. What an awesome accomplishment to hike every trail and even tackle El Cap! You inspired me to make the ~13 hour drive and to maybe start documenting my own adventures going forward. Happy trails!
Stunning views from the ridge and really loved seeing the 2 cabins and the setting around them. Can’t wait to get back there and give this hike a shot. Really appreciate it!
Tough Trail ???? This flat lander in Central Florida didn't even break a sweat while watching you going up or down the trails. Thanks for letting us enjoy the trails and scenery with your videos.
+Chuck Littleton it's fairly flat where I live also. West Texas is a big difference from North Texas. This trail was one of the hardest I've done. Also one of the most rewarding. Would love to go back in fall. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. I too enjoy watching others backpacking videos. Pretty easy way to take in some great views!
I enjoy your videos , unlike a lot of others who have the camera on them all the time and rarely show the scenery. You show us a happy combination of both which lets us really see what it's like.
Hi I'm very glad to have found this video. My family has hiked to the cabin and grotto area twice, but never made it further. So glad we're finally seeing the views from on Top.
The cabin and especially the grotto is an awesome area. The climb is pretty tough, but as you could see, the views are super worth it. Its amazing. Thanks a lot for watching.
You da man, Cameron. I’m heading to Big Bend, Carlsbad, and Guadalupe in 2 weeks. These videos have helped so much. Thank you! Come visit and have a beer with us at Big Bend.
Oh man that would be sweet! Sounds like an awesome trip. Wish I wasn't covered up with work right now. I'm going to try to plan a weeklong trip at Carlsbad and Guadalupe Mountains later this year. And hopefully a couple more over next winter. Glad the videos helped out. I really enjoyed making them. Have fun in the mountains. And caves!
Great job Cameron and what a great way to finish the trails out there. It's hard to convey on video what a tough hike that is going up McKittrick Ridge but the views are just crazy on the way up and from the top. You've done a good job of showcasing GUMO.
The views were amazing. Loved looking down and trying to spot different things. And trying to figure out how I could get down there one day! It was a hard climb for sure. I kind of quit videoing as much on my way up. Just worn out. I'm sure you know the feeling. Thanks for watching and commenting on all my stuff. I really appreciate each comment.
Thanks Cameron, I've really enjoyed all of your videos on GMNP. I live in El Paso and have wanted to hike McKittrick for a few years now. Your videos have inspired me to tackle it this fall... they say the colors are spectacular.. looking forward to your next adventure.
Going back sometime during Fall color is definitely on my list. Thanks for watching and commenting on my videos. I really appreciate it. I've got the Franklin Mountains out near you on my to do list over the next couple years!
Been up to the Guadalupe Peak twice, after seeing your video I am putting McKittrick on the list. Beautiful scenery every where you look in that park. Thanks for sharing.
It's amazing. The views from the top are some of the most awe inspiring sights I have ever seen. And Mckittrick Ridge is probably the beat backcountry campsite at the park. I've since hiked Mckittrick Canyon again since this video and it was every bit as amazing the second time. I'm going to try to do it again this year during fall color season at the first of November. Thanks for watching! Hope you get a chance to hike it soon.
Thank you for posting your hike. Watching it brought back good memories of my hiking there with my two sons many years ago when I had younger legs. ~ from Cut and Shoot, Texas
Thanks a lot for watching, Richard. Awesome to be able to go back and remember good times outdoors with your kids. I took my boys out to Guadalupe Mountains for the first time this summer. Hoping its the first of many more trips for us all out there.
Surprizingly Texas is a amazing state they have mountains like the smokies and then the guatalupa mountains is a massive range mountains range from some 8000 ft even has alpine forest! Hot in the valley and cold in peaks!
Finished Mackittrick Ridge on March 20 after doing the OML. Stayed one night in Fort Davis State Park while traveling between the two Parks. Your video was very helpful. Thanks!
That's awesome. Congrats on a couple great hikes! Did you by chance happen to post a trip report for the OML on Bigbendchat? I've been reading a bunch of trip reports lately. Just wondering if any were yours. Glad the video helped out. I've been wanting to get back out there really bad. Hopefully later this summer.
Really enjoy your videos. I used to live in Ft. Stockton, Texas and went to Big Bend several times but never GMNP. I waited until I moved to Tyler to start traveling to GMNP. 600 miles! Well worth it though! Visited the park during the fall of the last two years. Guadalupe peak, Devils Hall and McKittrick Canyon which I must say is the most beautiful place in Texas, especially when the trees are changing. I show people pictures of McKittrick Canyon and they think it's Colorado. Anyhow, when I start yearning for solitude and can't find it I just watch some of your videos. Can't wait to head west again later this year.
Greg, thanks for watching and taking time to comment. Thats great that you've made fall color season the past 2 years. From the pictures I have seen, 2019 had one of the most vibrant seasons in a while. I have plans for a fall trip this year. But I also had plans for a four day backpacking trip that would have ended yesterday. But with all that is going on, I had to cancel. Hopefully things get back to normal soon so we can all get back to the mountains.
I live in Austin and I think you just motivated be to head out to Guadalupe Mountains National Park for a long weekend of backpacking! Looks just like the solitude I am looking for.
You will have a ton of company if you do Guadalupe Peak. Literally anywhere else in the backcountry chances are high that you'll be able to camp alone and possibly not see anyone else all day. It's an awesome place. Thanks for watching. I have videos of every trail and campsite on my channel if you need anymore motivation!
I hope you do it. It's a beautiful hike that is very different at each end of the trail. The climb is pretty difficult but is absolutely worth it once you make it to the top. Thanks for watching.
Congratulations on your accomplishment. I'm sure you have inspired a lot of folks to get out there on those trails in the park and hike. I know that you have inspired me. I've been trying to get out there for years and in less than 2 months I'll be spending a few days and nights on trail, with McKittrick Canyon on the list. You did a great job creating these videos and it is much appreciated. I look forward to any other hiking related videos that you make in the future.
Robert Lewis thanks for the kind words. I'm sure you'll have a blast. This trail is definitely toward the top of the list at GUMO. It was awesome. Let me know how it goes. I'll definitely be making more videos soon. Just going to be some new/different places.
Congrats on accomplishing your goal. There is a lot more I want to do out there some day and I'm thankful for the info you have provided. Can't wait to see what you choose to do next.
Great content in all your videos. I've done Guadalupe Pk twice and Mckitrick Canyon three times back in the 80s. Need to go back out there . Your videos show lots I haven't seen.
Thanks for watching. I've really enjoyed all my time out there. It's easy to have a special connection with those mountains. Hope you get a chance to get back soon.
Good video. My wife and I have this National Park on our agenda for our planned trip out west when she retires in two years. (I'm already retired, but I don't want to go to this Park without her.)
Very good video! My wife and I will be heading to GMNP soon. We will base out of Dog Canyon Campground. We plan to hike up to McKittrick Ridge on one day, and up to Blue Ridge on another. Your videos have helped us to visualize our trip and plan for it. We're seasoned hikers and I've always had the Guadalupe Mountains on my wish list. Now we're going to do it! Wish us luck. Maybe we'll see you on the trail sometime (we're always hitting state parks and hiking trails throughout Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas). The Ouachita Mountain region is also a great region; not so much for the peaks, etc., but it's just a rugged, wild, great area teeming with all sorts of wildlife. Had a black bear mama that wanted to tear me up in 2016 (she had two cubs)! Anyway, loved your videos. Very helpful and informative. Cheers!
Thicketeer thanks for the kind words. Good luck on y'alls trip. Sounds like yall have a good plan. If you have time to drive around to Pine springs, the views would definitely be worth the drive if you haven't seen them before. (But the Dog Canyon side of the park has less people and is quieter) I can't wait to get back out there.
As has already been said, you've done an amazing job of taking us out on the trail with you. Now you need to go with us up to my special place...the Ouachita Mountains and the Ouachita Trail.
I PMed Benjamin the other day but he might not have seen it. I am free one night October 2 or 3 and would like to meet up somewhere if you guys are free. I was thinking of going to Colorado Bend if nothing else works out. I'd totally be down for the Ouachita Mountains sometime. I really want to do the ERL over the winter. Just not sure when I'll have time yet.
Todd would be the guy to show you around the Ouachitas and the OT. Since you do such a nice job videoing, it would be great to view a series along this trail. Good job, Cam.
Hi Cameron, great job on finishing all the trails! Next the real fun begins with the off trail peaks! I don't know, I think it will be hard to resist going out there in the near future. You'll just have to bring the whole family. I have probably 1-2 more trips there to do all the notable peaks, but I don't think I'll be able to do all the trails. It would be nice though, especially the most recent ones you did. They look amazing.
I'm really looking forward to Shumard and Bartlett peaks and El Cap one day. I know I'll be back out there but might not be until Winter of 2018. Might have a trip to Big Bend before then! Hopefully the weather works out for you next time. Whats next on your list out there?
That's not too long then. I'm going to do the Dog Canyon loop of peaks eventually, but it might not be until after Christmas, and then there are two more peaks - Pt. 7040 east of McKittrick canyon, and then Quail Mt in the south end of the park - and I'll be done with all the notable peaks there. And I want to do a time trial of Guadalupe Peak. I've been training for that, and the Outer Mt. Loop now.
Nice video!! Never heard of this place! Wasn’t paying attention lol I hiked Guadalupe Peak last year and really enjoyed it. Gonna have to check out the rest of your videos.
I see this makes me want to kick myself! Lived in Dallas for years, never heard of the place. In'78, I'm driving to LA for work overseas, making a road trip of it, I passed the turnoff sign, but skipped it and went on (did visit Carlsbad Caverns, Mesa Verde, Sedona and The Canyon but I wish I'd made that turnoff!)! What a mistake! Oh, well, your imagery will have to do: at 70, I'd kick off on the trail!!! Been in LA since '78, finally visited Lake Tahoe in 2019 - I seem to take forever to motivate!! Thanks for your video!!!
That hike up to the campground is soul-crushing. Many times were life choices questioned on the ascent. The campground doesn't really make the hike worth it.
Haha. It is for sure the hardest in the park. Longest 3 miles of trail ever. I just did it again a couple days ago. I actually really like the campsites up there. Plenty of place to sit with all the blow downs. And I like that the views are within a couple minutes of your tent. Thanks for watching. Glad we can share in the misery of that climb! The views are amazing though.
Thks, very good video! Hope to get out there later this year, but too old & bad shape (85) to do the strenuous hikes,still looks like the easier hikes would be great!!
Thanks for watching. I love Guadalupe Mountains. I have videos of every trail out there on my channel. Smith Spring is really nice. The Frijole Ranch and and Manzanita Spring are very easy to access.
Great video! Im a Geology student out in California and aquired a small book about the Geology of the Guadalupe Mountains. After reading about this area i think its a really cool place. I wanted to find out more and I found your video which I really enjoyed. I hope to make it out there in the future. Thanks again.
That's awesome. Guadalupe Mountains is a geology lovers dream. So much cool stuff there. I just dont have the knowledge to identify most of it. The videos on my channel of Devils Hall and some of my more recent ones have some good shots of some of the rock layers out there. Thanks for watching. Hope you do make it out there someday.
Just got back from the Pecos Wilderness and had to catch up on your videos. Great job on completion of the GUMO trails system. Congratulations man! You are the official GUMO guru on TH-cam btw. A great help to anyone planning a trip out there. The campsite reviews and trail descriptions are very much appreciated. Thank you for putting in those details. Pecos is 10.5 hour drive from DFW. Worth the drive! I'll lend you my map if you ever want to make the trip out there just let me know.
Tim Eubanks thanks a lot. I really appreciate it. Most of my upcoming trips will be within a few hours of me. But I'll be out west sooner than later. I love the openness of the West.
Cameron's Ultralight Backpacking good water loop will take you 1.5 days. Its close, and its a fun little loop with some cool historic sites and beautiful views of the lake. The trail does a good job of making you feel like you're in the middle of nowhere even though you know you aren't. Eagle rock loop 2.5 day hike. Beautiful hike and very challenging in sections, tons of water crossings and some great vistas. This one, you actually are in the middle of nowhere. I wouldn't go in the summer months, 90% humidity and 95° hikes fighting off chiggers, ticks, and mosquitos is no fun. Late fall through early spring will be your best bet for this loop. Both are about 3.5 hours from my house in Rowlett. Oh btw, i have the ghost whisperer jacket without hood in the same exact color. Lol. I love that jacket!
I'm planning on the Eagle Rock Loop in December. And hopefully the Goodwater Loop during winter some time. I just got the jacket. On sale from MH for just over $150. Loved it. Can't wait to actually use it when it gets cold.
You from Texas? We live in Dallas and I found you on another outdoor channel. I have visited Big Bend but not Guadalupe National Park great editing work in the canyon I loved this!
Hey thanks for checking out my channel. I live a little south of Fort Worth. Guadalupe Mountains is great. Especially when you get back where people hardly go. Can go a day or two without seeing anyone.
Great video as always. Would you consider trying the whole western escarpment from Guadalupe to Bush, or vice verse? That one is on my bucket list, if my knees allow me to try it.
+dadoleyna hey man, good to gear from you again. I have had that trip on my radar for a while. I want to try it sometime this year or so if I get the chance. What I have in mind is going up to Guadalupe Peak Campsite and doing El Capitan on day 1. Then leaving from Guadalupe Peak Campsite morning of day 2 and hiking across to Bush Mountain. I'd probably stay at Bush Mountain Campsite that night. I don't know if I'd be able to make it from Pine Springs, up Guadalupe Peak, across to Bush Mountain, and all the way back to Pine Springs, all in one day. I've heard it's a heck of hike. Tough. But it'd be awesome. I also really want to give the Guadalupe Ridge Trail from Carlsbad Caverns to Guadalupe Peak a shot sometime. But I would probably have to break it into a couple sections.
My "perfect plan" would have two groups of two or three doing the Bush Guadalupe circuit in opposite directions and sharing camping equipment. Group A at Bush on night 1 and Group B at Guadalupe, maybe having done El Capitan on day 1. Then they traverse the west and pass one another without having to carry the extra weight off trail, camping with the other equipment at the other site on night 2 and down thereafter. Also, My brother, his now-wife and I did the El Capitan trek two years ago on Valentine's Day. It was a real adventure. Highly recommended. I have a couple of nice pictures looking back mostly north from the edge of El Cap. As it happens the 'thumb' of the mitten shape of El Cap looks remarkably like a ship's bow from the other side....
dadoleyna that'd be great if you could get a group together like that. I don't carry a ton so I don't worry too much about carrying my pack. It'd just be quite a bit of water weight starting out. I had even thought about doing a smaller trip around the Bush Mountain/Blue Ridge Loop and caching water at Bush Mountain Campsite for night 2 of the 4 Peaks traverse. I will check out your pictures. You have some great stuff. I was able to see the old highway roadside stop when I did the Salt Basin Loop from Guadalupe Canyon thanks to your pictures. I didn't know it was there prior to that. I will definitely do El Capitan on my next trip out no matter what else I do.
I enjoyed your video, beautiful area. I have visited Texas many times to see relatives, I was born in Denison TX. I was wondering if you were afflicted by :chiggers" , I have had them at times roaming in the wild in Texas, and they are a nuisance
I've had plenty of chiggers as a kid just playing in the fields around my house. But I've never had any out at Guadalupe Mountsins. Thanks for watching and taking time to comment.
Thanks for posting just found your channel. Will go check it out. Two questions, is there any lodging close by that you recommend ? What type of camera do you use?
As far as hotels, the only thing close is in Whites City just outside of Carlsbad Caverns. To me, its overpriced. I stayed at a hotel in Van Horn one time and it was cheaper but was a 50 minute drive. Carlsbad itself is also high. I normally only camp at Pine Springs, a backcountry campsite, or Dog Canyon on the north side of the park which hardly ever has anyone else there. For my camera I just use my phone, a Samsung Galaxy S7 Active. I'd live to get an actual camera but for now, the phone works okay for what I need. Hope your trip works out. It's an awesome place. Thanks for watching.
I cant remember exactly. I did stop for a little bit to look around Pratt Cabin and stopped at the Grotto for lunch. And I know I got to the campsite with exactly enough time to hike back out before the gates closed at 6. So it was probably 2 - 2:30. I'd guess it took me 5 hours including the lunch break. That climb is no joke. And even includes losing some elevation and regaining it closer to the ridge. Great hike though. I'd love to do it again.
The Mckittrick Ridge sites actually have really good places to hammock. I have a video on my channel of just what the Mckittrick Ridge sites look like. It can get windy there. But if the winds aren't too bad, a hammock will work great.
@vickyhv89 not a lot compared to most other places. But it will be busy by GUMO standards. Until you pass the Grotto or Notch, beyond those places the hikers will thin considerably.
hi, I'm going to these mts. soon for a hike, any pointers/tips? thinking about hitting pratt cabin first then hike to the bowl on the same day. could I hike to mckittrick ridge then circle around to the bowl heading west, all in one day? Thanks, and really appreciate your vids
sickness untodeath technically you could. I'm not assuming your fitness level but that would be a monster of a day. I don't know if I'd be able to make it that far in one day. It would probably be a lot more pleasant to split those into two different days. But if you are in awesome shape, you may be able to do it. The climb up McKittrick Ridge is pretty tough. You are definitely looking at probably the two most scenic parts of the park though! That's where I always suggest everyone start with if they aren't doing Guadalupe Peak.
It just starts at the Mckittrick Canyon trailhead a few miles from Pine Springs. Then about 7 miles to the top of the ridge and some of the best views around. El Cap has the more impressive views looking straight down. But Mckittrick is more beautiful to me overall.
Ultralight Outdoors thanks for responding I should be heading out this coming Sunday night or Monday morning . where did you park ? And are you 7 miles out ? I read somewhere there’s a gate is this also true thanks !
@@cakepie3558 you just Park at the Mckittrick Canyon trailhead. There is a gate on the road leading to the trailhead. You must be back to the gate before they close for the evening. I believe at 6. Or they'll lock you in.
I do most of my trips alone. I actually would love to see a mountain lion. Not face to face of course. But from a little distance, it's on my bucket list.
Being from the super flat Houston area, it's hard to imagine such terrain exists in Texas. It's beautiful. Thanks for taking us along.
Omg Literally 80% of Texas looks like this
People in west Texas are usually surprised to learn that there are swamps with alligators in them surrounded by lush forests in east Texas. I grew up in west Texas and have lived in east Texas and it is totally different. ...People in west Texas don’t know what a kolache is!!...at least I didn’t know until I was in my mid-20s! Anyone other than people who have driven through Alaska would have their mind blow to drive from Houston to Big Bend National Park and still be in the same state they started in 700 miles later!!
Huy Cao : If you’ve never driven to Big Bend you need to. Be sure to pack a lunch though!!!
@@BernieSanders-bn5dk 🤨 that's false
What a Name !!! Makes sense.
😊😊
I was injured in highschool as a cheerleader......so both my knees are trashed..surgery on both......I can walk, but i would never be able to do this...so THANKyou for taking along for the ride!!!!
I feel extremely fortunate to be able to explore and experience places like this. I really appreciate you watching and taking time to comment.
Put a roof on the Hunter line cabin in 1990 while on an internship, great to see its still standing
+Joseph Joseph oh very cool! I wish there was more info about the cabin but there wasn't any around. It was in a great location.
but it looks like that dead tree might fall on it, a ranger should cut it down.
I've watched this video several time before and I love it each time. I can't get to Texas next week but I am hiking up the Appalachian Trail to its highest point--Clingmans Dome, Tennessee. I was sorry to see the fire on Emery Peak. We were just there three weeks ago.
You made it just in time at Big Bend. Hope your AT hike goes well!
I subbed to your channel and watched all of your Guadalupe videos at least once. As a result, I had planned a multi-day backpacking trip up there at the end of November. I even planned a few off-trail options. I may have to postpone the trip given the pandemic and the national parks' reluctance so far to let people back into the backcountry to camp.
Regardless, I want to thank you for sharing your GuMo adventures with us. What an awesome accomplishment to hike every trail and even tackle El Cap! You inspired me to make the ~13 hour drive and to maybe start documenting my own adventures going forward.
Happy trails!
extremely beautiful.
Stunning views from the ridge and really loved seeing the 2 cabins and the setting around them. Can’t wait to get back there and give this hike a shot. Really appreciate it!
I can't wait to get back out there either!
Good stuff. That place is amazing.
Thank you.
Sure is. My favorite place! Thanks for watching.
Tough Trail ???? This flat lander in Central Florida didn't even break a sweat while watching you going up or down the trails. Thanks for letting us enjoy the trails and scenery with your videos.
+Chuck Littleton it's fairly flat where I live also. West Texas is a big difference from North Texas. This trail was one of the hardest I've done. Also one of the most rewarding. Would love to go back in fall. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.
I too enjoy watching others backpacking videos. Pretty easy way to take in some great views!
I enjoy your videos , unlike a lot of others who have the camera on them all the time and rarely show the scenery. You show us a happy combination of both which lets us really see what it's like.
Thank u so much for sharing!!
I appreciate you watching!
Enjoy watching. That's for your efforts.
Thanks so much! I really appreciate you watching.
Very nice hike. Thank you.
Thanks a ton for watching!
Hi I'm very glad to have found this video. My family has hiked to the cabin and grotto area twice, but never made it further. So glad we're finally seeing the views from on Top.
The cabin and especially the grotto is an awesome area. The climb is pretty tough, but as you could see, the views are super worth it. Its amazing. Thanks a lot for watching.
You da man, Cameron. I’m heading to Big Bend, Carlsbad, and Guadalupe in 2 weeks. These videos have helped so much. Thank you! Come visit and have a beer with us at Big Bend.
Oh man that would be sweet! Sounds like an awesome trip. Wish I wasn't covered up with work right now.
I'm going to try to plan a weeklong trip at Carlsbad and Guadalupe Mountains later this year. And hopefully a couple more over next winter.
Glad the videos helped out. I really enjoyed making them.
Have fun in the mountains. And caves!
Great job Cameron and what a great way to finish the trails out there. It's hard to convey on video what a tough hike that is going up McKittrick Ridge but the views are just crazy on the way up and from the top. You've done a good job of showcasing GUMO.
The views were amazing. Loved looking down and trying to spot different things. And trying to figure out how I could get down there one day! It was a hard climb for sure. I kind of quit videoing as much on my way up. Just worn out. I'm sure you know the feeling. Thanks for watching and commenting on all my stuff. I really appreciate each comment.
Good job great hike I want to do that hike sometime thanks for sharing
Thanks. One of the best routes in the park. Tough but the views are amazing.
Thanks Cameron, I've really enjoyed all of your videos on GMNP. I live in El Paso and have wanted to hike McKittrick for a few years now. Your videos have inspired me to tackle it this fall... they say the colors are spectacular.. looking forward to your next adventure.
Going back sometime during Fall color is definitely on my list. Thanks for watching and commenting on my videos. I really appreciate it. I've got the Franklin Mountains out near you on my to do list over the next couple years!
Been up to the Guadalupe Peak twice, after seeing your video I am putting McKittrick on the list. Beautiful scenery every where you look in that park.
Thanks for sharing.
It's amazing. The views from the top are some of the most awe inspiring sights I have ever seen. And Mckittrick Ridge is probably the beat backcountry campsite at the park.
I've since hiked Mckittrick Canyon again since this video and it was every bit as amazing the second time.
I'm going to try to do it again this year during fall color season at the first of November.
Thanks for watching! Hope you get a chance to hike it soon.
Thank you for posting your hike. Watching it brought back good memories of my hiking there with my two sons many years ago when I had younger legs. ~ from Cut and Shoot, Texas
Thanks a lot for watching, Richard. Awesome to be able to go back and remember good times outdoors with your kids. I took my boys out to Guadalupe Mountains for the first time this summer. Hoping its the first of many more trips for us all out there.
Surprizingly Texas is a amazing state they have mountains like the smokies and then the guatalupa mountains is a massive range mountains range from some 8000 ft even has alpine forest! Hot in the valley and cold in peaks!
Nathaniel, you're exactly right. Big mountains out west that a lot of Texas have no clue about. Texas is amazingly diverse.
Great video man... That place looks so awesome!
Finished Mackittrick Ridge on March 20 after doing the OML. Stayed one night in Fort Davis State Park while traveling between the two Parks. Your video was very helpful. Thanks!
That's awesome. Congrats on a couple great hikes! Did you by chance happen to post a trip report for the OML on Bigbendchat? I've been reading a bunch of trip reports lately. Just wondering if any were yours.
Glad the video helped out. I've been wanting to get back out there really bad. Hopefully later this summer.
Just found your channel and subscribed. Beautiful hike! I’m looking forward to watching your other videos.
Thanks a lot, Gwen. I appreciate you watching.
Awesome views from up top. Great video. I hope that I'll be able to take that trip in a couple of years once my kids are a little older.
+MrCuervo22779 some of the best views in the state. Really tough but rewarding hike. I hope you get a chance to do it.
I really enjoyed the video! I wish I known of this when I was young...
Thanks for watching. I wish I would have started frequenting it sooner. So much to see out there.
Really enjoy your videos. I used to live in Ft. Stockton, Texas and went to Big Bend several times but never GMNP. I waited until I moved to Tyler to start traveling to GMNP. 600 miles! Well worth it though! Visited the park during the fall of the last two years. Guadalupe peak, Devils Hall and McKittrick Canyon which I must say is the most beautiful place in Texas, especially when the trees are changing. I show people pictures of McKittrick Canyon and they think it's Colorado. Anyhow, when I start yearning for solitude and can't find it I just watch some of your videos. Can't wait to head west again later this year.
Greg, thanks for watching and taking time to comment. Thats great that you've made fall color season the past 2 years. From the pictures I have seen, 2019 had one of the most vibrant seasons in a while.
I have plans for a fall trip this year. But I also had plans for a four day backpacking trip that would have ended yesterday. But with all that is going on, I had to cancel. Hopefully things get back to normal soon so we can all get back to the mountains.
I live in Austin and I think you just motivated be to head out to Guadalupe Mountains National Park for a long weekend of backpacking! Looks just like the solitude I am looking for.
You will have a ton of company if you do Guadalupe Peak. Literally anywhere else in the backcountry chances are high that you'll be able to camp alone and possibly not see anyone else all day. It's an awesome place. Thanks for watching. I have videos of every trail and campsite on my channel if you need anymore motivation!
Nice video, I plan to do this hike soon. Thanks for posting this. Been wanting to do this now at 62 years old this year.
I hope you do it. It's a beautiful hike that is very different at each end of the trail. The climb is pretty difficult but is absolutely worth it once you make it to the top. Thanks for watching.
Congratulations on your accomplishment. I'm sure you have inspired a lot of folks to get out there on those trails in the park and hike. I know that you have inspired me. I've been trying to get out there for years and in less than 2 months I'll be spending a few days and nights on trail, with McKittrick Canyon on the list. You did a great job creating these videos and it is much appreciated. I look forward to any other hiking related videos that you make in the future.
Robert Lewis thanks for the kind words. I'm sure you'll have a blast. This trail is definitely toward the top of the list at GUMO. It was awesome. Let me know how it goes. I'll definitely be making more videos soon. Just going to be some new/different places.
I sure will.
My family used to capture wild Mustangs down there in the late 1800s and early 1900s
Wow that's really awesome. It was a different place back then for sure.
@@CameronHall88 I've heard some really cool stories about it yeah it was definitely different
Congrats on accomplishing your goal. There is a lot more I want to do out there some day and I'm thankful for the info you have provided. Can't wait to see what you choose to do next.
BlessingOfAdventure thanks. I have some smaller trips nearer to me in mind in the next few months. And then hopefully Big Bend before winter is over.
Great content in all your videos. I've done Guadalupe Pk twice and Mckitrick Canyon three times back in the 80s. Need to go back out there . Your videos show lots I haven't seen.
Thanks for watching. I've really enjoyed all my time out there. It's easy to have a special connection with those mountains. Hope you get a chance to get back soon.
I enjoyed very much, Thankyou 🕊
Thanks a lot for watching and taking time to comment.
Good video. My wife and I have this National Park on our agenda for our planned trip out west when she retires in two years. (I'm already retired, but I don't want to go to this Park without her.)
I love the park. At least that gives yall a long while to plan exactly what yall want to experience there. Thanks for watching.
You do some really awesome videos
Thanks. I appreciate that. Wish I had more time to get out to West Texas!
@@CameronHall88 same here. I plan to be at the Marfa Lights Festival Labor Day weekend. I may get out to Davis Mountains State Park and Big Bend NP.
Great video man! This was my go-to video for researching my trip to McKittrick Canyon last week. Keep it up, your channel is great!
Thanks Clint. I subbed yalls channel today. Glad this video helped out some. Beautiful area. Hope I get a chance to go back later this year.
Very good video! My wife and I will be heading to GMNP soon. We will base out of Dog Canyon Campground. We plan to hike up to McKittrick Ridge on one day, and up to Blue Ridge on another. Your videos have helped us to visualize our trip and plan for it. We're seasoned hikers and I've always had the Guadalupe Mountains on my wish list. Now we're going to do it! Wish us luck. Maybe we'll see you on the trail sometime (we're always hitting state parks and hiking trails throughout Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas). The Ouachita Mountain region is also a great region; not so much for the peaks, etc., but it's just a rugged, wild, great area teeming with all sorts of wildlife. Had a black bear mama that wanted to tear me up in 2016 (she had two cubs)! Anyway, loved your videos. Very helpful and informative. Cheers!
Thicketeer thanks for the kind words. Good luck on y'alls trip. Sounds like yall have a good plan. If you have time to drive around to Pine springs, the views would definitely be worth the drive if you haven't seen them before. (But the Dog Canyon side of the park has less people and is quieter) I can't wait to get back out there.
As has already been said, you've done an amazing job of taking us out on the trail with you. Now you need to go with us up to my special place...the Ouachita Mountains and the Ouachita Trail.
I PMed Benjamin the other day but he might not have seen it. I am free one night October 2 or 3 and would like to meet up somewhere if you guys are free. I was thinking of going to Colorado Bend if nothing else works out. I'd totally be down for the Ouachita Mountains sometime. I really want to do the ERL over the winter. Just not sure when I'll have time yet.
Todd would be the guy to show you around the Ouachitas and the OT. Since you do such a nice job videoing, it would be great to view a series along this trail. Good job, Cam.
Hi Cameron, great job on finishing all the trails! Next the real fun begins with the off trail peaks! I don't know, I think it will be hard to resist going out there in the near future. You'll just have to bring the whole family. I have probably 1-2 more trips there to do all the notable peaks, but I don't think I'll be able to do all the trails. It would be nice though, especially the most recent ones you did. They look amazing.
I'm really looking forward to Shumard and Bartlett peaks and El Cap one day. I know I'll be back out there but might not be until Winter of 2018. Might have a trip to Big Bend before then! Hopefully the weather works out for you next time. Whats next on your list out there?
That's not too long then. I'm going to do the Dog Canyon loop of peaks eventually, but it might not be until after Christmas, and then there are two more peaks - Pt. 7040 east of McKittrick canyon, and then Quail Mt in the south end of the park - and I'll be done with all the notable peaks there. And I want to do a time trial of Guadalupe Peak. I've been training for that, and the Outer Mt. Loop now.
Outer Mt. Loop is wicked awesome!
Nice video!! Never heard of this place! Wasn’t paying attention lol I hiked Guadalupe Peak last year and really enjoyed it. Gonna have to check out the rest of your videos.
Tons of great hikes at the park other than Guadalupe Peak. Mckittrick Canyon is right there at the top of the list!
Thanks, Cameron this was great!
Phil Christian thanks a lot for watching. I always enjoy my trips to GUMO. I consider it my home park. Only it's 8 hours away!
17:23 so amazing
Another great video.
Thanks Dale!
I see this makes me want to kick myself! Lived in Dallas for years, never heard of the place. In'78, I'm driving to LA for work overseas, making a road trip of it, I passed the turnoff sign, but skipped it and went on (did visit Carlsbad Caverns, Mesa Verde, Sedona and The Canyon but I wish I'd made that turnoff!)! What a mistake! Oh, well, your imagery will have to do: at 70, I'd kick off on the trail!!! Been in LA since '78, finally visited Lake Tahoe in 2019 - I seem to take forever to motivate!! Thanks for your video!!!
Well thanks for watching. Sounds like you still hit some amazing places on that trip.
That hike up to the campground is soul-crushing. Many times were life choices questioned on the ascent. The campground doesn't really make the hike worth it.
Haha. It is for sure the hardest in the park. Longest 3 miles of trail ever. I just did it again a couple days ago. I actually really like the campsites up there. Plenty of place to sit with all the blow downs. And I like that the views are within a couple minutes of your tent. Thanks for watching. Glad we can share in the misery of that climb! The views are amazing though.
@@CameronHall88 Oh yeah, if you haven't done the canyon during the peak fall colors, it's a must.
Thks, very good video! Hope to get out there later this year, but too old & bad shape (85) to do the strenuous hikes,still looks like the easier hikes would be great!!
Thanks for watching. I love Guadalupe Mountains. I have videos of every trail out there on my channel. Smith Spring is really nice. The Frijole Ranch and and Manzanita Spring are very easy to access.
@@CameronHall88 Thks, I'l definitely be checking out your other videos.
Great video! Im a Geology student out in California and aquired a small book about the Geology of the Guadalupe Mountains. After reading about this area i think its a really cool place. I wanted to find out more and I found your video which I really enjoyed. I hope to make it out there in the future. Thanks again.
That's awesome. Guadalupe Mountains is a geology lovers dream. So much cool stuff there. I just dont have the knowledge to identify most of it. The videos on my channel of Devils Hall and some of my more recent ones have some good shots of some of the rock layers out there. Thanks for watching. Hope you do make it out there someday.
Just got back from the Pecos Wilderness and had to catch up on your videos. Great job on completion of the GUMO trails system. Congratulations man!
You are the official GUMO guru on TH-cam btw. A great help to anyone planning a trip out there. The campsite reviews and trail descriptions are very much appreciated. Thank you for putting in those details.
Pecos is 10.5 hour drive from DFW. Worth the drive! I'll lend you my map if you ever want to make the trip out there just let me know.
Tim Eubanks thanks a lot. I really appreciate it. Most of my upcoming trips will be within a few hours of me. But I'll be out west sooner than later. I love the openness of the West.
Cameron's Ultralight Backpacking good water loop will take you 1.5 days. Its close, and its a fun little loop with some cool historic sites and beautiful views of the lake. The trail does a good job of making you feel like you're in the middle of nowhere even though you know you aren't.
Eagle rock loop 2.5 day hike. Beautiful hike and very challenging in sections, tons of water crossings and some great vistas. This one, you actually are in the middle of nowhere. I wouldn't go in the summer months, 90% humidity and 95° hikes fighting off chiggers, ticks, and mosquitos is no fun. Late fall through early spring will be your best bet for this loop.
Both are about 3.5 hours from my house in Rowlett.
Oh btw, i have the ghost whisperer jacket without hood in the same exact color. Lol. I love that jacket!
I'm planning on the Eagle Rock Loop in December. And hopefully the Goodwater Loop during winter some time.
I just got the jacket. On sale from MH for just over $150. Loved it. Can't wait to actually use it when it gets cold.
You from Texas? We live in Dallas and I found you on another outdoor channel. I have visited Big Bend but not Guadalupe National Park great editing work in the canyon I loved this!
Hey thanks for checking out my channel. I live a little south of Fort Worth. Guadalupe Mountains is great. Especially when you get back where people hardly go. Can go a day or two without seeing anyone.
Great video as always. Would you consider trying the whole western escarpment from Guadalupe to Bush, or vice verse? That one is on my bucket list, if my knees allow me to try it.
+dadoleyna hey man, good to gear from you again. I have had that trip on my radar for a while. I want to try it sometime this year or so if I get the chance.
What I have in mind is going up to Guadalupe Peak Campsite and doing El Capitan on day 1. Then leaving from Guadalupe Peak Campsite morning of day 2 and hiking across to Bush Mountain. I'd probably stay at Bush Mountain Campsite that night.
I don't know if I'd be able to make it from Pine Springs, up Guadalupe Peak, across to Bush Mountain, and all the way back to Pine Springs, all in one day.
I've heard it's a heck of hike. Tough. But it'd be awesome.
I also really want to give the Guadalupe Ridge Trail from Carlsbad Caverns to Guadalupe Peak a shot sometime. But I would probably have to break it into a couple sections.
My "perfect plan" would have two groups of two or three doing the Bush Guadalupe circuit in opposite directions and sharing camping equipment. Group A at Bush on night 1 and Group B at Guadalupe, maybe having done El Capitan on day 1. Then they traverse the west and pass one another without having to carry the extra weight off trail, camping with the other equipment at the other site on night 2 and down thereafter.
Also, My brother, his now-wife and I did the El Capitan trek two years ago on Valentine's Day. It was a real adventure. Highly recommended. I have a couple of nice pictures looking back mostly north from the edge of El Cap. As it happens the 'thumb' of the mitten shape of El Cap looks remarkably like a ship's bow from the other side....
dadoleyna that'd be great if you could get a group together like that. I don't carry a ton so I don't worry too much about carrying my pack. It'd just be quite a bit of water weight starting out. I had even thought about doing a smaller trip around the Bush Mountain/Blue Ridge Loop and caching water at Bush Mountain Campsite for night 2 of the 4 Peaks traverse.
I will check out your pictures. You have some great stuff. I was able to see the old highway roadside stop when I did the Salt Basin Loop from Guadalupe Canyon thanks to your pictures. I didn't know it was there prior to that.
I will definitely do El Capitan on my next trip out no matter what else I do.
Awesome!!! Have you been on shummard peak??? That's where I want to go 👍
I haven't. I'm hoping to knock out Shummard and Bartlett when it cools off.
I enjoyed your video, beautiful area. I have visited Texas many times to see relatives, I was born in Denison TX. I was wondering if you were afflicted by :chiggers" , I have had them at times roaming in the wild in Texas, and they are a nuisance
I've had plenty of chiggers as a kid just playing in the fields around my house. But I've never had any out at Guadalupe Mountsins. Thanks for watching and taking time to comment.
Thanks for posting just found your channel. Will go check it out. Two questions, is there any lodging close by that you recommend ? What type of camera do you use?
As far as hotels, the only thing close is in Whites City just outside of Carlsbad Caverns. To me, its overpriced. I stayed at a hotel in Van Horn one time and it was cheaper but was a 50 minute drive. Carlsbad itself is also high. I normally only camp at Pine Springs, a backcountry campsite, or Dog Canyon on the north side of the park which hardly ever has anyone else there.
For my camera I just use my phone, a Samsung Galaxy S7 Active. I'd live to get an actual camera but for now, the phone works okay for what I need.
Hope your trip works out. It's an awesome place. Thanks for watching.
Never heard of it. Seems like something to try.
It sure is. An amazing place. Thanks for watching.
Love this video man! How many hours did it take you to get up there while you were feeling sick?
I cant remember exactly. I did stop for a little bit to look around Pratt Cabin and stopped at the Grotto for lunch. And I know I got to the campsite with exactly enough time to hike back out before the gates closed at 6. So it was probably 2 - 2:30. I'd guess it took me 5 hours including the lunch break.
That climb is no joke. And even includes losing some elevation and regaining it closer to the ridge.
Great hike though. I'd love to do it again.
Would you recommend using a hammock instead of a tent on this trip? I prefer a hammock, but what is your advice?
The Mckittrick Ridge sites actually have really good places to hammock. I have a video on my channel of just what the Mckittrick Ridge sites look like. It can get windy there. But if the winds aren't too bad, a hammock will work great.
I’ll be doing this hike in late October during the week. I hope there’s not many people out there.
@vickyhv89 not a lot compared to most other places. But it will be busy by GUMO standards. Until you pass the Grotto or Notch, beyond those places the hikers will thin considerably.
hi, I'm going to these mts. soon for a hike, any pointers/tips? thinking about hitting pratt cabin first then hike to the bowl on the same day. could I hike to mckittrick ridge then circle around to the bowl heading west, all in one day?
Thanks, and really appreciate your vids
sickness untodeath technically you could. I'm not assuming your fitness level but that would be a monster of a day. I don't know if I'd be able to make it that far in one day. It would probably be a lot more pleasant to split those into two different days. But if you are in awesome shape, you may be able to do it. The climb up McKittrick Ridge is pretty tough.
You are definitely looking at probably the two most scenic parts of the park though! That's where I always suggest everyone start with if they aren't doing Guadalupe Peak.
What’s the exact location ! Love this . Might go instead of going to El Capitan .
It just starts at the Mckittrick Canyon trailhead a few miles from Pine Springs. Then about 7 miles to the top of the ridge and some of the best views around.
El Cap has the more impressive views looking straight down. But Mckittrick is more beautiful to me overall.
Ultralight Outdoors thanks for responding I should be heading out this coming Sunday night or Monday morning . where did you park ? And are you 7 miles out ? I read somewhere there’s a gate is this also true thanks !
@@cakepie3558 you just Park at the Mckittrick Canyon trailhead. There is a gate on the road leading to the trailhead. You must be back to the gate before they close for the evening. I believe at 6. Or they'll lock you in.
Ultralight Outdoors ok I see & . Will anything happen to your Vehicle if you camp out and come back in the morning .
@@cakepie3558 no. Not as long as you have the free permit and camp at the designated campsite. You'll be fine.
Now where the hell is this...
You have balls going alone ha . im scared of mountain lions . missing 411 stuff..
I do most of my trips alone. I actually would love to see a mountain lion. Not face to face of course. But from a little distance, it's on my bucket list.
And i thought Texas was basically flat
A lot of people think that. Because a lot of it is. But there are some amazing mountain ranges in West Texas!