Fall colors season at Guadalupe Mountains: what applies in 2026?

Direct answer

Fall colors season — McKittrick Canyon and Pine Springs reach capacity in October and November

Exact conditions

Status: Not required; the stated access rule still applies
Applies to: all visitors
Place or corridor: McKittrick Canyon and the Pine Springs area
Effective dates: January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2026
Release model: first come

Exceptions and limits

Much of the year McKittrick Canyon is lightly used; the exceptions are fall colors season in October and November and spring weekends.

Official source

National Park Service · reviewed August 27, 2026

McKittrick Canyon (40 spaces): "Much of the year McKittrick Canyon is lightly used. Exceptions are the fall colors season in October and November as well as spring weekends."

Parking - Guadalupe Mountains National Park