Beth Bankhead, Author at ETB Travel Photography

Guadalupe Mountains National Park: Three Day Itinerary

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is located in West Texas’ Chihuahuan Desert with Carlsbad, New Mexico being 55 miles to the north and Del City, Texas being 44 miles to the south. Fill up with gas in one of these two cities, as the area is remote.

During my drive through the West Texas desert plains dotted with oil wells, I wondered to myself, why is Guadalupe Mountains a National Park? I mean, yes, there are some high desert mountains featuring southwestern terrain and lovely fall foliage, but what makes it special?

While the park doesn’t display jaw-dropping scenery like Yosemite, Rocky Mountain National Park, or the Grand Tetons, it is pretty and home to the highest point in Texas. But the main reason for the 135 square miles being designated a national park is for it being the largest exposed reef in the world!

I had no idea I’d be hiking through the Chihuahuan Desert loaded with marine fossils while exploring historic ranches, admiring cool rock formations, and hiking to the top of Texas. Guadalupe Mountains National Park pleasantly surprised me.

For those who enjoy hiking and visiting historic sites, plan to visit Guadalupe Mountains National Park for three days and spend at least one day at nearby Carlsbad Caverns.

EXPLORE!

Guadalupe Peak: The Highest Point in Texas

I’ve been wanting to hike to the highest point in Texas for a while now. I finally made it to Guadalupe Mountains National Park this past April and knocked out Guadalupe Peak. I’m surprised I overlooked this National Park when I was visiting Carlsbad Caverns during a year long road trip across the USA. I was less than 30 miles away from the park that otherwise requires some effort to reach, as indicated by the many “No Gas” sign warnings dotting the highway.

Getting to Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Carlsbad, New Mexico is approximately 50 miles north of the park and the closest public airport to Guadalupe Peak is in El Paso, 110 miles to the southwest. Definitely come with a full tank of gas and provisions to complete this 8.1-mile roundtrip hike that begins at the Pine Springs entrance.

HAPPY HIKING!

Happy Hiking: Devil’s Hall Trail

Devil’s Hall Trail is in Guadalupe Mountains National Park located in West Texas. The hardest part of this trail is getting there. Not because of dirt roads, but because the park is in a desolate area and 50 miles from the closest gas station. Fortunately, there are many signs that warn drivers to fill up!

Getting To Devil’s Hall Trail

You can fill up in Carlsbad, New Mexico 50 miles north of the trailhead of 63 miles south of the trailhead parking in Van Horn, Texas. In a jam, you can get gas in Whites City which is at the entrance of Carlsbad Caverns National Park. But being the only gas station along with an RV park, motel, and small store for grocery provisions, the price is much higher. If you are flying in, El Paso is the closest airport, 110 miles away. If you are driving from Houston, Austin, or San Antonio, Fort Stockton is a good resting point.

Once in the general area of Guadalupe Mountains National Park go to the Pine Springs entrance. This entrance includes a Visitors Center, a basic campground, bathrooms, and a small parking area for Devils Hall Trail.

This parking lot also serves Guadalupe Mountain, the highest peak in Texas, as well as other hiking paths, so it is best to arrive early to get a spot. Not to mention, you will beat the heat if you are hiking in late spring, summer, or fall.

HAPPY HIKING!

The National World War II Museum

Those that follow my blog know that I tend to focus on outdoor activities. While I sometimes write about a museum I popped into for about an hour in a “Things to Do…” post, it is rare I dedicate an entire article to something indoors. Well, the National World War II Museum was so good, it warranted its own write up. Even then, I won’t be able to do it justice.

I don’t think I have ever been to the same museum twice unless I was attending a special exhibit. That said, I would return to the National World War II Museum a second time in a heartbeat. I was so impressed by the facility, the exhibits, and the comprehensive information.

In full disclosure, I do love historical fiction based on World War II. Additionally, I have wanted to visit this museum for at least 10 years. On the flip side, sometimes I’m disappointed by my high expectations. Furthermore, I don’t like spending hours in a museum, and I read that most people spend around five hours. Consequently, I tried keeping my expectations in check.

In the end, I spent six hours in the National World War II Museum, and it beat all my expectations. I highly recommend making time for a visit even if you are in NOLA just for one of its crazy festivals, most notably Mardi Gras or Jazz Fest.

DIVE INTO HISTORY!

Things to Do in Dauphin Island

Dauphin Island is an Alabama town located on a barrier island of the same name. The town is part of the Mobile metropolitan area, and the island helps define the mouth of Mobile Bay. Dauphin Island is reached by the scenic, three-mile Gordon Persons Bridge.

History of Dauphin Island

Originally known as Massacre Island, it was renamed to Dauphin Island in honor of Louis XIV of France’s great-grandson and heir, known as the dauphin for the dolphin on his family crest. While dauphin means dolphin in French, dauphin was the title given to the heir apparent of France, Louis XV.

Though the Spanish first discovered and mapped the island in 1519, the French were the ones who mistakenly named it Massacre Island in 1699 after finding a large pile of human skeletons which was actually an Indian burial mound.

At the end of the French and Indian War, Dauphin Island was ceded to the British in 1763. After the American Revolutionary War, Dauphin Island became part of the Province of West Florida, controlled by the Spanish.

It wasn’t until the early 1800’s after Spain and the United States signed the Treaty of San Lorenzo that settlers began migrating to Alabama from the Southeast and took the land away from the Indians.

By the Civil War, Dauphin Island was controlled by the Confederacy and captured by the Union Army during the Battle of Mobile Bay.

Today, this charming bayfront town is known for its laid back and natural setting.

EXPLORE!

Things to Do in Gulfport

Looking for a beach vacation over spring break, a fishing trip in the Gulf of Mexico over the summer or simply an easy get away? Look no further than Gulfport, Mississippi. With a population of roughly 73,000, Gulfport is the second largest city in the state.

It takes its name from being a port on the Gulf Coast of the Mississippi Sound. Gulfport is rich with civil war history, claims six miles of sandy beaches, and is a marine enthusiast’s paradise.

Though quieter than coastal cities like Gulf Shores, Gulfport still has many things to do including dining, shopping, and gambling. The city is just over an hour drive from New Orleans, and its international airport supports over 800,000 travelers annually.

While visiting Gulfport, consider some of the following activities:

EXPLORE!

Fishing in Gulfport

During our two weeks in Gulfport competing in horse shows at the Harrison County Fairgrounds, we spent one of our Mondays off fishing in Gulfport. Due to poor planning, actually no planning at all, we had to drive to Biloxi, 45 minutes away, in order to charter a boat.

When we looked into our options, most of the fishing companies in Gulfport were already booked. The only ones left were pricey and operating out of Biloxi.

TAKE THE BAIT!

Places to Eat in Gulfport

Believe it or not, Gulfport is the second largest city in Mississippi. As a result, it offers a variety of entertainment and eateries. During our two weeks competing in horse shows at the Harrison County Fairgrounds, we tried many places to eat in Gulfport.

Some of the restaurants are in downtown Gulfport while others are closer to the fairgrounds, but these are a few that made our list.

DIG IN!

Things to Buy in Turkey

When exploring the vibrant markets and rich cultural tapestry of Turkey, there’s an abundance of enticing items to purchase, each offering a glimpse into the country’s diverse heritage. From intricately designed carpets and traditional ceramics to aromatic spices and delectable sweets, Turkey boasts an array of treasures waiting to be discovered. Embarking on a journey through Turkey’s bustling bazaars is not only a shopping experience but also an immersion into its
history and craftsmanship.

For those seeking convenience and curated experiences, Turkey tour packages offer an ideal way to navigate the labyrinthine streets of Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar or explore the artisanal workshops of Cappadocia. With expert guides leading the way, travelers can delve into the intricacies of Turkish cuisine, sample local delicacies, and peruse a myriad of souvenirs to commemorate their unforgettable journey. Whether strolling through the vibrant lanes of Istanbul or marveling at the natural wonders of Pamukkale, Turkey’s diverse offerings are sure to captivate and inspire visitors from around the globe.

SHOP TIL YOU DROP

How to Get Your Smartphone Ready for Travel?

Did you pack the sunscreen, a page-turner, the ultimate vacay wardrobe, and even your passport? Got your phone chargers sorted out, too? Hold up — it’s crucial to get your smartphone travel-ready before you jet off.

Imagine having to deal with hotel booking mishaps with no internet, running out of space for those breathtaking snaps, or not being able to watch a movie on a long haul flight. It has all happened to me before, and a beach hat won’t cover up those troubles!

Here’s what you need to consider when traveling overseas with a mobile phone to ensure your vacation goes smoothly.

MAKE THE CALL!