Hudspeth County Sheriff's: Salt Flats Trespassers Face Citations

The Salt Flats near the base of the Guadalupe Mountains National Park that El Pasoans have been flocking to in recent weeks has caught the attention of more than just the internet. It turns out much of the land is private property and some of the property owners don’t want you there, the Hudspeth County Sheriff’s Office said on Facebook.

Law enforcement officials are warning those planning to make the trip that deputies have stepped up patrols of the area and they’ll be writing citations to those caught trespassing.

About the Salt Flats

Recently I told you about the Salt Flats, an ancient two million-year-old lake bed east of El Paso about an hour and half away on Hwy 62/180 that you pass on the way to Carlsbad Caverns. Dry and inconspicuous most of the year, it’s been transformed into a rare water wonderland after all the recent rain West Texas has received this summer.

Since word got out about its existence, El Pasoans have been going in large numbers to witness the breathtaking beauty of the temporary oasis, take photos, and wade in the inches-deep lake of pearl-colored water.

Beatriz Sandoval

Enter your number to get our free mobile app

The large number of sightseers has resulted in an increase of traffic, trash, and trespassing. And Salt Flat land owners have had it.

In a Facebook post dated Monday, August 30, Hudspeth County Sheriff’s officials warn those making the drive to stay out of the private property or risk a fine.

submitted by Francesca Prat

Recently we have experienced an influx of visitors to the salt flats near highway 62/180. Although we agree it is beautiful scenery, the large groups of people has caused some issues. Most of the salt flats is privately owned and we have already received notification from land owners that they do not want anyone on their property. Deputies will be in the area, Violators will be given a trespassing warning/citation if caught on private property.

LOOK: Stunning vintage photos capture the beauty of America's national parks

Today these parks are located throughout the country in 25 states and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The land encompassing them was either purchased or donated, though much of it had been inhabited by native people for thousands of years before the founding of the United States. These areas are protected and revered as educational resources about the natural world, and as spaces for exploration.

Keep scrolling for 50 vintage photos that show the beauty of America's national parks.