One of our favorite state parks, Hueco Tanks has some of the best hiking, rock climbing, and outdoor education in all of Texas. A pictograph is defined as a painted sign or symbol and Hueco Tanks has some incredible ones to view. Don’t mistake these for petroglyphs, which are carved or scratched into rock. Although, they do have some petroglyphs in the park, it is the pictographs that are the highlight here.
Arriving at the Park
Upon arrival, you’ll be asked to view the park orientation video. The rangers are dedicated to protecting the park and this video will help you understand both why that is so important and how you can help them preserve the park for future generations.
Exploring Hueco Tanks
Rock Climbing
Rock climbing, or bouldering, is a favorite among visitors at the park. There are a variety of options for every skill level here. Be aware that not all areas of the park can be accessed. Some areas need a guide for climbing. This is one of the ways the park is being protected so make sure you ask a Ranger when you arrive what area is right for you.
Hiking
Hueco Tanks is divided into four areas. North Mountain, West Mountain, East Mountain, and East Spur. In order to protect the history at the park, the North Mountain is available for self-guided exploration, while the other areas are restricted to guide-only. This includes both hiking and climbing. In order to hike or climb, you must obtain a permit from either the headquarters upon arrival or by calling ahead and reserving one. They only allow 70 people on the North Mountain at one time so reserving a permit early is essential. Guided tours of the West and East Mountains are available Wednesday through Sundays by reservation only. Again, spots are limited, so reserve early.
Nature Trail
The Nature Trail (North Mountain) is a short 0.08 mile trail that is good for any skill level. Walk through the Interpretive Center that is at the trail head. Just behind the center, you can view some pictographs on the rock walls.
Chain Trail
The Chain Trail (North Mountain), while short at only 0.14 miles, is a moderate to strenuous hike. The name says it all as you have to use a chain to get to the top. You’ll find some incredible views at the end!
Site 17 Trail
Another short trail at 0.13 miles, the Site 17 Trail (North Mountain) is easy to moderate. You will find a rock art site at the end of this trail.
Cave Kiva
Our favorite of all the trails on the North Mountain, Cave Kiva is something you must see! First, you’ll need to stop at Headquarters and ask for a detailed map. This is an unmarked trail and the only way you will find the cave is by using the map.
This trail is completely worth the moderate to strenuous hike up the mountain because you will find an incredible rock art site inside a cave. Eight beautifully preserved pictographs of Jordana Mogollon masks!
Beware! The cave is not the easiest to get in and out of, but make the effort. It is worth it!!!
Pond Trail
The Pond Trail holds the largest of all the pictographs you can see on the North Mountain. This trail is an easy 0.43 mile hike. At the end, you’ll view an incredible art site featuring some beautiful pictographs. This site was the largest of all the pictographs we saw.
Bird Watching
Bird watching is another great outdoor activity you can do at Hueco Tanks. Over 200 different species of birds have been seen at the park. They have a monthly birding tour on the third Saturday of every month. Bring your book or app and get ready to check off all the ones you see.
Camping
This Texas State Park offers 16 50amp water and electric sites, along with 4 water only sites. With only 20 sites, reservations are highly encouraged. They have 2 loops within the campground. The first is more for large rigs like RVs and travel trailers while the second is more of a tent area or for smaller trailers. Reservations are limited to 3 days only and there is absolutely no late entry as they keep the gates locked to protect the park. They have a dump station in the campground next to the bathroom. While you’re camped, you are tucked up against the mountain so the views are very nice.
Consider the Wonders is not affiliated with Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site, Texas State Parks, Texas Parks & Wildlife.
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