GENERAL - The tiny community on U.S. 62/180 just south of New Mexico state line was the location of a station on famous stagecoach run.  Butterfield Overland Mail Route.  Station was established in  1858; tumbled stone ruins and a granite historical marker are all that remain today.

GUADALUPE MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK - Dedicated in 1972, the park contains 86,416 acres with elevations ranging from 3,650 to 8,749 feet at the summit of Guadalupe Peak, the highest point in Texas.  Four of the state's highest peaks are in the park, as well as many other unnamed peaks of over 8,000 feet, along with deep canyons and a rare mixture of plant and animal life.  the barren, desert outer mountain slopes belie a wooded, game rich interior of great scenic beauty.  Forests of ponderosa pines mingle with aspens, maples, mountain junipers and madronas.  Abundant deer and elk graze upland meadows.

Most access to the park's rugged, majestic interior is by hiking and back-pack camping along 80 miles of marked trails. The National Park Service, advises that only experienced, well-eqiupped backpackers should enter the primitive back country for extended stays.  Permits are required for overnight trips and camping is allowed in designated areas only.  All should check in and out at the headquarters visitor center on U.S. 62/180 near Pine Springs.  A natural history museum, slide program, and books are in the 1870's Frijole Ranch House.

Visitors may drive near the mouth of McKittrick Canyon, where easy hiking trails lead into enchanting scenery (day use only).  A geology exhibit and slide program are at the McKittrick Canyon Visitor Center.

Tent and self-contained RV camping at Pine Springs campground near the ruins of historic "Pinery" stage station.  Water, rest rooms, evening campfire programs.  Containerized fuel stoves ( gasoline, propane, alcohol) only.  On U.S,. 62/180.  Fee.