Guadalupe Mountains and Carlsbad Caverns

Climb to the high point of Texas, see some amazing rock formations, and enter “The Grand Canyon with a roof over it!”

This will be an advanced and strenuous hike, suitable for well-trained individuals who are self-sufficient on the trail and reliable team members. The organizers reserve the right to defer attendees on this basis.

Two campsites at the Pine Springs Campground are reserved. Unfortunately, I could not get the same campsite for all 3 nights, so half of our group will have to pack up and switch sites after the 2nd night. The campsites are very small and are restricted by rule to 2 tents each, so we will have to share some larger tents rather than everyone having their own tent as we often do. The campsites are a ~1/4 mi walk from the parking area (and bathrooms/water source), so pack accordingly. The campsites have picnic tables but are otherwise primitive.

Expected trip costs:
$15/person for campsites
Share of gas/vehicle expenses paid to your driver (~$40/person)
$15 Carlsbad Caverns entry fee
Hotel rooms TBD

Itinerary:

Wed Nov 5:
Drive to Pine Springs campground. (~8.5 hours).
Camp at Pine Springs campground.
Thu Nov 6:
Climb Guadalupe peak. Out-and-back, 8 mi, 2936 ft of elevation gain.
Camp at Pine Springs campground
Fri Nov 7:
Hike Hunter Peak via the Bear Canyon trail. Loop hike, 8.4 mi, 2673 ft of elevation gain. Along the way, see interesting features of Tejas Arch and Devils Hall. This hike will be a lot more remote and less crowded than the Guadalupe peak hike.
Camp at Pine Springs campground
Sat Nov 8:
Pack up camp, drive to Carlsbad caverns visitor center (~45 min).
Visit the cavern. You can hike down into the cavern and back up (750 ft of elevation loss/gain in 1.25 mi) on the Natural Entrance Trail, or take an elevator, or some combination.
Drive to Carlsbad, NM (~30 min)
Stay in a hotel (location TBD)
Sun Nov 9:
Drive back to Austin (~8.5 hours)

Cancellation policy: If you will not be able to make the hike, please be polite and change your RSVP to "not going".

# Event Waiver and Release of Liability #

By confirming your attendance (RSVP) to this event, you acknowledge and agree to the following terms:

Assumption of Risk: You voluntarily assume all risks associated with participation in this event, including but not limited to risks of bodily injury, property damage, or other losses that may occur during the event. You understand that the event may involve physical activities, such as hiking or other outdoor pursuits, which carry inherent risks.

Personal Responsibility: You accept sole responsibility for your own health, safety, and well-being, as well as that of any guests you may bring to the event. If you or your guests are unwilling to accept this responsibility, you are advised not to RSVP or participate in the event.

Non-Professional Guidance: The event hosts, organizers, and facilitators are not professional guides or trained personnel. They do not assume any responsibility or liability for your safety, health, or conduct during the event.

Release of Liability: By participating in this event, you hereby release and discharge the event hosts, organizers, and any affiliated individuals or entities from any and all liability, claims, demands, or causes of action arising out of or related to any loss, damage, or injury, including death, that may be sustained by you or your guests during or as a result of participating in this event.

This event is a voluntary gathering of individuals with shared interests engaging in recreational activities. By RSVPing, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by the terms of this waiver.