About
Length11.7 mi
ShapePoint-to-Point
DifficultyStrenuous
Typical time8 hr
TrailheadPine Springs to Dog Canyon
SurfaceSteep switchbacks then high forested plateau
Best seasonSpring and autumn. Late October and early November for McKittrick Canyon fall colour - the busiest fortnight of the year.
DogsNot allowed
AccessibilityTrail 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.
What you'll see ⛰️ Summit🌄 Big views🌲 Old growth🎒 Backpacking

The Tejas Trail is the primary north/south through trail within the park, connecting the Pine Springs Trailhead with the Dog Canyon Trailhead at the park's northern boundary. This major artery can be used to connect to numerous other trails to make a variety of loops. Headed north the trail climbs out of Pine Springs Canyon into the Wilderness high country. The central portion of the trail from Pine Top until the McKittrick Canyon Trail junction is forested, passing through the Bowl and numerous drainages. The route passes the saddle at Lost Peak. No trail leads to the summit itself. Descending from the area of Lost Peak the trail passes through the grassy areas that define the northern portion of the park. Overnight backpacking is recommended at Pine Top, Tejas, and/or Mescalero Wilderness Campgrounds. Distance: 11.8 miles (19.0 km) one way For more detailed information on trails, check our trail descriptions page. Elevation Change: Accumulation of 3,000 feet Time Estimate: 7-9 hours Difficulty: Strenuous Duration: Minimum of one night, two days. Trailhead: Pine Springs and Dog Canyon Trailheads. The drive between the trailheads is two hours. No shuttle service runs between the two trailheads.

Tips
Seven to nine hours one way, and the two trailheads are 110 road miles apart - you need a shuttle or two vehicles. There is no water anywhere on the route.
Location

Pine Springs to Dog Canyon

Other Hikers
No one has logged this trail yet.
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