This picnic area right off Route 62 provides a stellar view of El Capitan, a prominent peak in the Guadalupe Mountains standing just over 8,000 feet tall.

This small visitor center includes exhibits on the park's geological and natural features. There's also a small gift shop. This is where you'll need to pay your park fee.

One of the primary trailheads in the park, Pine Springs is the starting point for several trails. The two most popular are the trails to Guadalupe Peak, and Devil's Hall. Guadalupe Peak is the highest mountain in Texas. The hike to the summit is 8.4 miles round trip, with 3,000 feet of elevation change, and is considered difficult. Devil's Hall is about 4 miles round trip and is moderate to difficult. Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks for either trail.

What remains of an overland mail route station called the Pinery sits at the foot of the Guadalupe Mountains. Mail used to cross the country by carriage, stopping at stations like this for a new driver and a fresh team of horses.

Explore a historic homestead at the Frijole Ranch. The farmhouse has been converted into a small museum displaying artifacts from the area's human history. You can also walk beyond the ranch to reach the Smith Spring Loop Trail, which heads a small ways into the mountain forest to a spring. The whole trail is 2.3 miles round trip and is considered moderate. You can also just stop at the Manzanita Spring, which is only 0.5 miles round trip.

McKittrick Canyon is an easier alternative to hike into the mountains than the hikes at the Pine Springs trailhead. There are a few hiking choices here, but the most recommended is the hike to Pratt Cabin. The hike is 4.8 miles round trip and is considered moderately difficult, mainly for the length. This area is known for colorful trees during the autumn. Next to the trailhead is a small visitor center that's intermittenly staffed.