We’re here, and we’ve got your back. If you’re like us, the Lone State doesn’t typically come to mind when you think of mountains. You might also think of other emblems, like the Dallas Cowboys or even cattle! Surprisingly, Texas has three or more mountain ranges!
When you visit Texas, be prepared to climb, hike, and simply take in the spectacular scenery that the state’s mountains have to offer. Fans of the outdoors and mountains will be thrilled since, as we all know, Texas is the place to go! Texas mountains ranges may not have been on many locals’ or visitors’ initial road trip itineraries, but we promise it will be rewarding!
Here are a few of Texas’ tallest mountains that are worth visiting:
1. Mount Mescalero
We already highlighted the Davis Mountains as one of the Texas mountain ranges. So, we want to emphasize stopping at Mescalero Mountain in particular while visiting this range!
There are three peaks on this mountain: Arrowhead, Apache Peak, and Point. The Nature Conservancy owns every peak in this area, thus preserving the wildness is of vital significance.
At 5,000 feet in the air, the mountain itself protects ecosystems for plants and animals. Although these environments are remote and are referred to as “ecological islands,” Mescalero takes the conservancy very seriously. We want to make sure you check the dates you can climb here as a result, so please do so! To protect the animals, some weekends are closed.
2. Mount Bonnell
If we told you that even Austin has ranges and peaks, would you believe us? That is correct! Austin, Texas has mountains! We are specifically referring to Mount Bonnell. The dammed portion of the Colorado River, sometimes known as Lake Austin, is beautifully seen from this limestone summit, which is popular for hikers. Also visible from the summit is downtown Austin and a number of waterfront communities.
One of those Texas mountains that are quite simple to climb, Mount Bonnell is less than 1,000 feet tall. It also has a fantastic hybrid vibe: the vistas from the peak have an urban vibe, yet the wilderness immersion is perfect for hikers of all ages and skill levels! Check out Mount Bonnell and the other mountains close to Austin!
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3. Palo Pinto Mountains
The Palo Pinto Mountains are a cuesta-like range of hills that seem like mountains in Texas. They are situated in Palo Pinto Country’s western region, which means “painted stick.” After you see the gorgeous juniper trees in the region, you’ll understand why it was given this name.
These mountains are situated on 4,800 acres of unspoiled property and are a component of the Palo Pinto Mountains State Park. They are located around 75 miles west of Fort Worth, but the breathtaking scenery is definitely worth it!
The length of the mountains is roughly 15 miles. The geography of the ridge and the adjacent park area is very varied. Locals and visitors agree that the area has excellent conservation and recreational potential because of its live oaks, elms, waterways, and other natural features. They wish to see development in this area, including activities like horseback riding and stargazing, among others!
4. Guadalupe Mountain
Guadalupe Peak has previously been mentioned as one of the Texas mountains you really must see, so go check it out! The Guadalupe Mountains include Guadalupe Peak. This range is made up of fossilized coral reefs that have emerged from the western Texas Chihuahuan Desert.
Guadalupe Peak is located in the middle of the range. This location is Texas’ highest point, as was previously indicated. It is a summit that hikers ascend with joy. Fortunately, a well-maintained hiking track leads to the summit!
A steel monument and breathtaking views may be seen at the top. The sweeping Salt Basin Dunes are covered in all shades of purple and pink at sunset. Conifer trees can also be seen nearby.
5. East Mountain
Is East Mountain actually one of Texas mountains? Is it a city, then? The solution is both! The summit of East Mountain itself is 660 feet high. It also looks like a lovely neighborhood!
This area is in Upshur County and is often referred to as the City of East Mountain. Surprise, it’s in East Texas, but the tiny town wasn’t founded until the early 1870s.
You can enjoy a peaceful and elegant view over the neighborhood from the summit of East Mountain! Although the town is small (it has a population of just around 900), many hikers may easily explore the peak, and the mountain village can also be reached by a short day excursion.
6. Anthony’s Nose
Anthony’s Nose may sound like an odd mountain name, and it certainly is! But, there’s a good reason for it—the mountain is shaped like a nose! This summit is a member of Franklin Mountain, a broader range. Anthony’s Nose is one of those Texas Mountains that you do not want to miss, despite being a member of a range.
Almost 6,900 feet is how high this peak is. The terrain of Anthony’s, Texas’ second-highest mountain in Texas, is challenging to hike through. To reach the summit, one must traverse an absurd number of prickly pears and other vegetation.
Only serious adventure seekers should attempt this excursion because there are no established challenges on the summit. Experience will be beneficial as well. At the conclusion of the day, Anthony’s Nose is a challenging hike through authentic, untouched desert Texas.
7. Busch Mountain
Searching for another one of those Texas mountains to climb? In the Guadalupe Mountains National Park, take a look at Busch Mountain.
The trek itself is simple, so hikers may anticipate a pleasant summit experience. The trails and mountain sides are covered in soft grass, pleasant temperatures, and sporadic fir and pine trees. So what happens when you reach the peak? The actual exploration begins there!
The top offers breathtaking views of the desert. The climb is truly rewarded by these views. Guadalupe Peak is also visible from here; it offers visitors fantastic views of the nearby West Texas Mountains. But what is the highlight of Busch Mountain? You could camp out!
8. Eagle Mountain Lake No
You might be perplexed as to why a lake is listed on a page about Texas mountains. Believe us! Some of the nicest hills and mountains in the area surround this lake.
Yes, Eagle Mountain Lake is home to a magnificent lake where many visitors go boating, skiing, and fishing. But, there are various hills, bluffs, and mountains nearby as well as hiking paths!
You can get amazing views of the lake and some lovely lake houses by exploring these small ranges. Just 15 miles separate Eagle Mountain Lake from Fort Worth. You could simply agree that life is better to close to the ocean based on the views.
9. Eagle Peak
Eagle Mountain Lake should not be confused with Eagle Peek! In actuality, Eagle Peek is a portion of the Texas highlands known as Devil Ridge or Eagle Mountains, sometimes known as Eagle Peek. You should be aware that this summit is located on private property. So, you might have to undergo a search before being given the okay to even attempt the summit! It’s crucial to keep in mind that this exploration may or may not be successful.
Yet this mountain is 7,484 feet tall, so if you do get an opportunity to climb it, do so! There is a gravel road up to the summit, and the trek is pretty simple. But be sure to ask permission before climbing!
10. Fresno Peak
Big Bend Ranch State Park is home to Fresno Peak. In the center of the Chihuahuan Desert, to be precise. We do indeed mean the middle. The closest road to this desert summit is more than 15 miles away.
Although there are several unofficial hiking paths, there are no established trails that lead to this summit. They were built by former mountaineers. But even so, proceed with caution as you take on this challenge!
Fresno Creek and the Bofecillos Highlands are visible from the summit’s highest point. It might take some time to reach the top as it is located more than 5,000 feet above the ground, but it might be an adventure worth trying.
11. Goat Mountain
Who wouldn’t want to explore Texas mountains with animal names? Observe Goat Mountain! The Chisos Mountains in Big Bend National Park contain Goat Mountain.
Since an ancient river valley was once spilled with lava, geologists adore this summit. Several unusual minerals that are ready for exploration were left behind as a result. Both of Goat Mountain’s peaks are over 4,000 feet in elevation. Here, there are no trails. As a result, you should anticipate a multi-hour climb. Yet the payoff is worth it: a view that only a select few get to experience firsthand.
