WHEREABOUTS
WORLDWIDE

BIG BEND NATIONAL PARK

BIG BEND NATIONAL PARK

Big Bend National Park, located in southwest Texas, is a vast and stunning area encompassing over 800,000 acres of desert, mountain, and river landscapes. It offers a unique blend of ecosystems, including deserts, grasslands, and riparian habitats, making it a haven for diverse wildlife and plant species. The park is named after the dramatic bend in the Rio Grande River that forms its southern border, creating spectacular views and opportunities for outdoor activities.

Hiking is a popular pastime, with trails ranging from easy walks to challenging backcountry routes. Visitors can explore the Chisos Mountains, enjoy the hot springs along the river, or discover ancient rock art and fossils. The park is also a designated International Dark Sky Park, offering some of the best stargazing in the United States.

With its remote location, Big Bend is an ideal destination for those seeking solitude and adventure in a breathtaking, natural setting. Whether you’re interested in hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, or simply soaking in the panoramic views, Big Bend provides a memorable experience for all who visit.

Oliver standing beneath Balanced Rock in Big Bend National Park.
The old west ruins from historic times in Terlingua Ghost Town.

BIG BEND NATIONAL PARK – PERFECT THREE DAY ITINERARY

A trip to Big Bend National Park starts with a visit to Chisos Basin, where you can hike the Lost Mine Trail or summit Emery Peak. Spend some time at the Rio Grande, enjoying a dip in the hot springs or a peaceful canoe ride.

Make sure to explore Santa Elena Canyon and see the sights along Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive. Don’t miss the Fossil Discovery Exhibit and the park’s five visitor centers, where you’ll learn about the area’s ancient past.

End your trip with a tour of Terlingua Ghost Town and stargazing at the park’s dark sky area, one of the best in the country.

BIG BEND NATIONAL PARK – PERFECT THREE DAY ITINERARY

RANKING THE TOP 15 HIKES IN BIG BEND NATIONAL PARK

RANKING THE TOP 15 HIKES IN BIG BEND NATIONAL PARK

Big Bend National Park offers a variety of hiking experiences, from short walks to strenuous treks. This guide ranks the top 15 hikes, highlighting trails that showcase the park’s diverse landscapes, including desert terrain, mountain forests, and river canyons.

Hikers can expect scenic views, unique rock formations, and opportunities to spot wildlife. Trails like the Balanced Rock, Lost Mine, and South Rim Loop are just some of the epic hikes available in Big Bend.

Whether you’re looking for a quick nature walk or a challenging backcountry journey, this list helps identify the most rewarding hikes in Big Bend.

HIKING IN BIG BEND NATIONAL PARK

BALANCED ROCK TRAIL

The Balanced Rock Trail, also known as the Grapevine Hills Trail, is a 1.9-mile round-trip hike in Big Bend National Park.

It begins with a gentle walk through a sandy wash, surrounded by desert flora and unique rock formations. The final quarter-mile presents a steeper climb over boulders, leading to the iconic Balanced Rock—a massive boulder perched atop two others, offering a unique photo opportunity.

The trail is rated easy to moderate, suitable for families and casual hikers. Access requires a 6.5-mile drive on a rough dirt road; high-clearance vehicles are recommended. Remember to bring water and sun protection, as there’s no shade along the trail.

Trail Name: Balanced Rock via Grapevine Hills Trail.

Distance: Approximately 1.9 to 2.2 miles round-trip.

Elevation Gain: About 300 feet.

Difficulty: Easy to moderate.

Estimated Time: 1 to 2 hours.

Trailhead Access: Via Grapevine Hills Road, a 6.3-mile gravel road; high-clearance vehicles recommended.

Features: Desert landscape, unique rock formations, and the iconic Balanced Rock.

SOUTH RIM LOOP & EMORY PEAK TRAIL

​Hiking the South Rim Loop and Emory Peak in Big Bend National Park offers a challenging yet rewarding adventure.

The South Rim Loop spans approximately 12.5 miles with an elevation gain of 2,400 feet, providing panoramic views of the Chisos Mountains and the desert below. Emory Peak, the park’s highest point at 7,825 feet, is accessible via a 3 mile spur trail off the South Rim Loop, culminating in a final rock scramble to the summit.

Combining both hikes into a single day is ambitious but feasible for experienced hikers seeking breathtaking vistas and a full-day trek.

Trail Type: Loop with optional out-and-back spur trail to Emory Peak.

Distance: 12.2 miles (South Rim Loop). Add 3 miles round trip to Emory Peak for 15.2 miles total.

Elevation Gain: 2,400 feet (South Rim Loop). Add 1,000 feet to Emory Peak for 3,400 feet.

Time Required: 6–8 hours for the South Rim Loop and an additional 2 hours for the addition of Emory Peak.

Difficulty: Strenuous.

Trailhead: Chisos Basin Trailhead near the Chisos Lodge.

Best Time to Hike: Fall through spring; avoid the heat of summer.

LOST MINE TRAIL

Hiking the Lost Mine Trail in Big Bend National Park is a rewarding adventure offering breathtaking views with moderate effort.

The 4.8-mile round-trip trail begins on the Basin Road and climbs steadily through shady pine forests and rugged switchbacks. Hikers are treated to sweeping vistas of the Chisos Mountains and Casa Grande Peak along the way. At the summit, panoramic views of Juniper Canyon and distant desert landscapes make the climb worthwhile.

It’s best hiked early in the day to avoid heat and crowds. The trail is well-maintained, making it perfect for families and casual hikers alike.

Location: Chisos Basin.

Distance 4.8 miles out-and-back.

Elevation Gain: Approximately 1,100 feet.

Difficulty: Moderate.

Duration: 2.5-3.5 hours.

Trailhead Elevation: 5,679 feet.

Highest Point: 6,850 feet.

BLOG ARTICLES