Paul Ehrlich
If you’re looking for a great family hike, check out The Pinery Trail! Located in Guadalupe Mountains National Park, the Pinery Trail is less than a mile long. Most of it is paved, so hikers of all ages can enjoy it. The trail is also wheelchair accessible, so almost everyone can enjoy the scenery.
Even pets are allowed on the Pinery Trail, if they’re on leashes.
In Spring, you can see all sorts of flowers along the trail. Trailside exhibits explain exactly what plants are living here. In addition to flowers, various cacti and trees dot the landscape.
Photo: @C5Media via Twenty20
While you’re walking the trail, make sure to look behind you! You’ll enjoy a great view of the Guadalupe Mountains, looming in the distance. Bring a camera or use your cell phone to take some amazing pictures!
At the trail’s end, you will see the ruins of Pinery Station. Preserved by the National Park Service, this stagecoach station originally had a rock enclosure protecting a wagon repair shop and a blacksmith. The station was built like a fortress in order to defend against attacks by Native Americans.
About six to eight men worked and lived in the station. Eventually, it was abandoned. Despite the building’s protections, frequent attacks made the station dangerous and unprofitable to run. Even the presence of US Army troops didn’t discourage Indian raids.
Also, the forts that the station served were too far away. So, the entire route was moved, leaving the buildings empty.
Photo: @discountgolden via Twenty20
All that’s left now of the station are a few walls, made of limestone slabs and adobe. They are crumbling, so the National Park Service asks that you don’t touch them. A small path winds through the remains of the buildings. It’s the only unpaved portion of the Pinery Trail and is completely optional.
After you see the ruins, the trail dead-ends. You can head back to your car or hike another trail. Guadalupe National Park has over 15 trails to choose from. Maybe you would like to tackle the Guadalupe Peak Trail, which has 3,000 feet of elevation gain. Or you may wish to hike through maple and pine trees to reach the Devil’s Hall.
Come to Guadalupe National Park and enjoy unique and scenic views. The park may be managed by the National Park Service, but the beauty is all Texas!
