Hiker Dies on Texas' Tallest Mountain Peak During Sub-freezing Windstorm

GUADALUPE MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK, TEXAS – On Saturday, December 31, 2022, Guadalupe Mountains National Park was notified of a non-responsive hiker on the Guadalupe Peak Trail; hikers on scene administered bystander CPR and notified park staff. 

The Guadalupe Peak Trail is a very strenuous, 8.4 mile round trip hike with a 3,000 foot elevation gain to the summit of the highest point in the State of Texas. A High Wind Warning was in effect New Year’s Eve with wind gusts more than 50 miles per hour and wind chills well below freezing.

"Guadalupe Mountains National Park staff are saddened by this loss," stated Superintendent Eric Leonard, “and our entire park community extends sincere condolences to the hiker's family and friends."

At nearly 9,000 feet above sea level, Guadalupe Peak is a mountain environment with associated risks not found elsewhere in Texas. When hiking in a group, stick together. When hiking during high winds, you should always be prepared to turn around. You should prioritize your own safety above all else in windy conditions. Postpone your hike if the weather is bad.