McKittrick Canyon
Known as “the most beautiful place in Texas,” its creek canyon is set ablaze in autumn by maples, oaks and ashes. Trails lead to a stone cabin and a grotto.
The canyon has a rare year-round stream, which supports deciduous trees such as bigtooth maple. In autumn, the leaves turn red and gold, making this Texas's most famous fall foliage trail. From the canyon entrance, it is about 3.9 km one way to Pratt Cabin and 6.4 km to the Grotto and Hunter's Cabin. The round trip takes 4 to 5 hours on mostly gentle terrain. The entrance gate opens and closes at set times during the day (about 8:00 to 16:30 or 18:00). On autumn weekends, the parking lot often fills up, so arrive early. Do not wade into the creek.
Opening hours
Gate approx. 8:00–16:30 (extended to 18:00 during daylight saving time)
Nearby sights
- Frijole Ranch
- Devil's Hall Trail
- Guadalupe Peak
- El Capitan
- Slaughter Canyon Cave
- Salt Basin Dunes
- Sitting Bull Falls
- Rattlesnake Springs