Curator’s statement
In 2018, I invited one of my college friends on an Alaska cruise, and that trip sparked a tradition of exploring a new national park together every year. Our goal is to visit all 63 U.S. national parks, creating unforgettable memories along the way. This four-day Chihuahuan Desert road trip checked four incredible parks off our list—White Sands, Carlsbad Caverns, Guadalupe Mountains, and Big Bend—bringing us one step closer to our goal while showcasing some of the Southwest’s most unique landscapes, from towering white gypsum dunes and underground caves to rugged mountains and dramatic desert vistas. The biggest surprise of the trip was Big Bend National Park, which quickly earned a spot among my top five favorite national parks, thanks to its incredible scenery and remote beauty.
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Things to do
Guadalupe Mountains National Park: Devil's Hall Trail's natural stone staircase ("Hiker's Staircase")
White Sands National Park
Take a photo shoot among the iconic white gypsum dunes for unforgettable desert views. Drive Dunes Drive, stopping at scenic overlooks and short trails to experience the ever-changing landscape. If you have the chance, rent a sled and glide down the dunes—we didn’t bring one and definitely wish we had!
Carlsbad Caverns National Park
Begin your adventure by hiking the Natural Entrance Trail, descending nearly 750 feet into the cave through its massive natural entrance. Explore the breathtaking Big Room, one of the largest cave chambers in North America, then take the elevator back to the surface after your underground journey.
Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Hike the Devil’s Hall Trail, one of the park’s signature adventures, featuring a rugged rocky wash, a natural stone staircase, and dramatic canyon scenery. It’s the perfect hike for experiencing the unique beauty of the Guadalupe Mountains without committing to a full-day summit trek.
Big Bend National Park
On the way to Big Bend, stop to see Prada Marfa. While in the national park, drive the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, stopping at breathtaking overlooks like Mule Ears and Sotol Vista to take in the park’s vast desert landscapes. End your day by watching the sunrise or sunset, then stay after dark to experience some of the best stargazing in the United States at this world-renowned International Dark Sky Park.
Places to eat & drink
El Gordo's tacos
Chili Pepper Café
Located just outside Big Bend National Park in Study Butte, Chili Pepper Café is the perfect spot for dinner after a day of exploring. The servers were incredibly friendly, and the flavorful Tex-Mex dishes and relaxed atmosphere made it one of our favorite meals of the trip.
Carlsbad Caverns Underground Lunchroom
For a truly unique dining experience, stop at the Carlsbad Caverns Underground Lunchroom, located nearly 750 feet below the surface inside the cave. It’s one of the few places in the world where you can enjoy a meal underground, making it a memorable part of your visit.
El Gordo’s
Located near Big Bend National Park, El Gordo’s is the perfect place to grab lunch after a morning of exploring. The food was absolutely delicious, with authentic Mexican flavors and generous portions that made it a must-visit.
Need to know
The Chihuahuan Desert is beautiful but can be unforgiving, so be prepared for extreme temperatures. The best times to visit are fall, winter, and spring, when daytime temperatures are much more comfortable for hiking and exploring. If you're traveling during the summer, plan outdoor activities for early morning or late evening, carry plenty of water (at least one gallon per person per day is recommended for hiking), wear sun protection, and remember that temperatures often remain hot well into the evening. Cell service is also limited throughout much of the region, so download maps ahead of time and always let someone know your plans before heading out.
Travel Advisor
Peaceful Adventures
Renee Hamm
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