Claret cup cactus, Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas

© Clint Farlinger/Alamy

Claret cup cactus, Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas

Cactus flowers and historic landmarks await visitors at this national park that’s east of El Paso, Texas. Here you’ll find the four largest peaks in Texas, as well as towering El Capitan, a dramatic looking peak that was used as a landmark by stagecoach drivers delivering passengers and mail. Visitors here can view the ruins of the stage line and visit Frijole Ranch – once a centre of ranching in this mountain range. Ancient rock art and pottery indicates people lived here as early as 10,000 years ago.