When people think of Texas, they often picture open plains, long roads, and cowboy towns. But here is the truth, Texas has mountains. They may not be as tall as the Rockies, yet they are breathtaking in their own right.
Are there mountains in Texas?
Here’s a list of major mountains and ranges in Texas,
| Mountain / Range | Location | Highest Elevation (ft) | Key Highlights |
| Guadalupe Peak | Guadalupe Mountains National Park | 8,751 | Panoramic desert views |
| El Capitan | Guadalupe Mountains | 8,085 | Iconic limestone cliff |
| Bush Mountain | Guadalupe Mountains | 8,631 | Second-highest peak in Texas |
| Shumard Peak | Guadalupe Mountains | 8,615 | Ideal for experienced hikers |
| Bartlett Peak | Guadalupe Mountains | 8,508 | Remote and peaceful summit |
| Hunter Peak | Guadalupe Mountains | 8,368 | Scenic loop trail with diverse desert flora |
| Mount Livermore | Davis Mountains | 8,378 | Tallest peaks outside Guadalupe range |
| Mount Locke | Davis Mountains | 6,790 | Site of the McDonald Observatory |
| Emory Peak | Chisos Mountains, Big Bend National Park | 7,825 | Amazing sunrise spot |
| Casa Grande Peak | Chisos Mountains | 7,325 | Distinctive flat-topped mountain |
| North Franklin Mountain | El Paso | 7,192 | Highest point in Franklin range |
| Sierra Blanca | Hudspeth County | 6,888 | Desert peak near Mexico border |
| Christmas Mountains | Near Big Bend | 5,728 | Ideal for off-trail exploration |
| Chinati Mountains | Presidio County | 7,728 | Beautiful desert wilderness |
| Eagle Mountains | Hudspeth County | 7,484 | Great for solitude seekers |
The Wild West of Texas
Most of the state is flat, but the western part tells a different story. This region, called Trans Pecos, is filled with desert peaks, canyons, and wide horizons that stretch as far as you can see. It is the perfect escape for travelers who crave quiet landscapes and starry nights.
Guadalupe Mountains National Park
This is where the highest point in Texas stands tall. Guadalupe Peak reaches 8751 feet above sea level. The trails are challenging but worth every step. From the top, the desert unfolds in all directions. You can also explore ancient fossils, winding canyons, and peaceful pine forests within the park.
The Calm of the Davis Mountains
Near the small town of Fort Davis, these mountains bring cooler air and scenic views. They are home to the McDonald Observatory, where visitors can enjoy clear night skies and guided stargazing events. The winding roads and quiet trails make this area one of Texas’s best hidden gems.
Big Bend’s Chisos Range
Inside Big Bend National Park, the Chisos Mountains rise dramatically from the desert floor. These are the only mountains in the United States found entirely within a national park. The trails lead through forests, cliffs, and hidden valleys that surprise every hiker. The Chisos Basin is a favorite spot to rest and watch the sunset.
Franklin Mountains of El Paso
Running through the city of El Paso, the Franklin Mountains give locals and visitors a rare blend of city and wilderness. The Franklin Mountains State Park offers hiking, biking, and climbing with sweeping views of Texas, New Mexico, and Mexico.
Hidden Beauty Waiting to Be Found
So, does texas have mountains? Yes. They might not have the fame of the Appalachian Mountains or the Ural Mountains, but they hold a quiet kind of wonder. Their beauty is raw, the air is pure, and the silence feels endless.