Last updated: December 13, 2022
Thing to Do
Foothills Loop
This moderate loop route uses the Frijole Trail and the Foothills Trail to make a loop below the eastern escarpment of the Guadalupe Mountains. Excellent views up Bear Canyon and toward El Capitan can be found along the trail. It's not unusual to spot deer along the trail. This trail can be hiked high to low (Frijole Trail first) or low to high (Foothills Trail first).
Distance: 4.5 miles (7.2 km) round-trip from Frijole Ranch; 5.5 miles (8.9 km) round-trip from Pine Springs
Elevation Change: 800 feet
Time Estimate: 2-4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Trailheads: This loop can begin either at Pine Springs or the Frijole Ranch.
Trails: Portions of the Foothills and Frijole Trails are used to make a loop.
Distance: 4.5 miles (7.2 km) round-trip from Frijole Ranch; 5.5 miles (8.9 km) round-trip from Pine Springs
Elevation Change: 800 feet
Time Estimate: 2-4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Trailheads: This loop can begin either at Pine Springs or the Frijole Ranch.
Trails: Portions of the Foothills and Frijole Trails are used to make a loop.
Details
Duration
2-4 Hours
Activity
Hiking
Start at either the Frijole Ranch Trailhead or the Pine Springs Trailhead and use the Frijole and Foothills Trails to form a loop hike along the lower edge of the Guadalupe Mountains escarpment.
Pets Allowed
No
Pets disturb wildlife and are not allowed on trails. Your pets should remain at home as opportunities for pets are very limited in the park.
Reservations
No
Season
Year Round
While this is generally a year-round route in good weather, the Foothills Loop will be open and exposed to high temperatures from late summer through early Fall.
Time of Day
Day, Dawn, Dusk
If hiking in the late afternoon, be sure to carry flashlights and headlamps.
Accessibility Information
Trail surfaces are loose rock or hardened rock surfaces. Hiking or trekking poles are highly recommended. Trail widths vary from two to six feet depending on the trail.
Parking
All trailhead areas have accessible parking available.
Service animals
Only service animals that have been individually trained to perform specific tasks for the benefit of persons with disabilities are allowed in the park and on trails.