Bush Mountain is one of 5 peaks that line an escarpment that rises over 5,000 ft above the salt flats to the west. Bush Mountain is the second highest summit in Texas, only 149 feet lower than the highest, Guadalupe Peak. See also El Capitan, Shumard Peak, and Bartlett Peak.

Although Bush Mountain is an easy climb with a trail all the way to the summit, it is a worthy climb because of its spectacular views into the more remote sections of the Guadalupes. The other 4 peaks along the escarpment don't offer these views. An unobstructed view to the West also gives Bush Mountain a perfect setting to view the sunset, as well as views far into New Mexico. Because of Bush's more remote location as well as it not being the highest peak in Texas like Guadalupe Peak, Bush offers a remote and beautiful location without the crowds.

Bush Mountain (left) as seen from Hunter Peak

Bush Mountain is located in the romote and beautiful Guadalupe Mountains National Park (see the Guadalupe Peak page for more information on the park), located in West Texas just south of Carlsbad Caverns National Park. The Guadalupe Mountain Range is the largest exposed ancient fossil reef in the world. Overshadowed by the other more popular national park in Texas (Big Bend), the Guadalupe Mountains have something that Big Bend doesn't have; bragging rights to the best view in Texas (Hunter Peak), and the prettiest spot in Texas (McKittrick Canyon). The view from Bush Mountain is just as spectacular.

CAUTION:

The Guadalupe Mountain area is one of the windiest places in the nation. Winds in excess of 100 mph have been recorded and high winds are common year round. Bring your Wal-Mart tent at your own risk.

Mountain Lions and rattlesnakes are located in this area. Read all the precautions and warnings at the ranger station. Despite their presence, I haven't seen any snakes nor lions in 7 trips to the Guadalupes other than some lion tracks in the snow. Dawn is the most likely time for a lion encounter. See this for information on mountain lion safety.

Getting There

The trailhead to the base of the peak starts at either Pine Springs (the headquarters for Guadalupe Mountains National Park) or Dog Canyon.

Pine Springs is located in west Texas on U.S. 62/180 110 miles east of El Paso and 55 miles southwest of Carlsbad, New Mexico.

Dog Canyon is located on the north side of the park and may be accessed via NM state road 137. Drive 46 miles northeast from Pine Springs on U.S. 62/180 and make a left turn on Dark Canyon Road/County Road 408 or drive 9 miles south from Carlsbad on U.S. 62/180 and make a right turn on Dark Canyon Road/County Road 408 . Drive 23 miles and make a left turn onto NM state road 137. Drive 30 miles to Dog Canyon.

You may also reach Dog Canyon by exiting U.S. highway 62/180 22 miles south of the park on Texas FM road 1576 to NM state road 137. Note: 31 miles of this route is a gravel/dirt road. Dog Canyon is 6 miles south of the intersection of Texas FM road 1576 and NM state road 137.

There are no food, gas, or lodging services in Pine Springs or Dog Canyon. Don't show up with an empty tank. This is one of the most isolated parks in the lower 48.

Red Tape, Camping, and Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Information on Red Tape and Camping seem to change quite frequently so I will refer you to the Guadalupe Peak page so I will only have to maintain one section for all of the peaks in the Guadalupes.

Guadalupe Peak Page

When To Climb

The most ideal time to hike or climb in the Guadalupes is in the winter months. Be prepared for any sort of weather. It can be cold with extremely high winds, or it may be very pleasant. Snow is possible in the winter but infrequent. Get a pre-dawn start in the warmer months and beware of rattlesnakes and Mountain Lions. See this for information on mountain lion safety.

Caution: There are no water sources in the back country. Take plenty of water in the summer months. A gallon of water per person per day is recommended. Temperatures in the summer can be very hot and oppressive. Hiking up one of the steep, rocky trails in the heat of the day is not recommended.

Mountain Conditions

External Links

More Information on Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Images



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