August backpacking, <12 hrs driving from Dallas

[William McAlpine]

Hi,

I'm moving to Dallas this summer from the east coast. I've never been west of Dallas and will have a week before I start school in August for backpacking. Does anyone have any ideas for a 5-6 day backpacking trip within a 12 hr driving distance of Dallas?

Thanks!

[Kevin Schneringer]

I grew up in north Georgia and this is close ,mixed pine forest and 215+ mile trail. Nice 2000-2600 peaks(we call them Mountains Ha)
Me and a few others are doing 9 days in November. but wouldn't mind finding a trail partner for trips in OK & TX
Only 3 BPLer's in Ok

It is really nice and it is 4 hours or less from DFW.

Also check out Ozark Highland Trail in Ft. Smith,AR

[Luke Schmidt]

Arkansas/Oklahoma are your best bet for really close trips. It will be hot and humid but hey you won't need much insulation

I think a better bet would be the Pecos Wilderness area. From Dallas it would be 11-12 hours but its a nice place and it will be a lot more pleasant in August.

[Leigh Baker]

I agree the Pecos would be a good choice. It's about as close as you can get to decent elevation, and therefore a break from the heat. AR IMO would be brutal in Aug.

[William McAlpine]

Thanks for the ideas everyone. Pecos sounds like a great idea. Is anyone familiar with Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado. Would this time of the year be good time for a trip there?

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