When I was planning for big bend national park, I had no idea why I was doing this. Whenever somebody mention ‘Texas’, we always assume a humid hot desert in the middle of no-where. But honestly, Texas is far beyond than that. I used to think like that and with time I found myself amazed by the beauty of Texas. Anyway, I decided to spend two days in Big Bend National Park and what I saw there literally blown my mind away and at the end of the trip I talked to myself that I should have planned for one more day. I went there during September and it was still hot. But I think if you choose a cooler month and specially if you choose spring, there is a possibility that you will be able to see valley filled with Texas bluebonnet flowers (generally early April). Though I haven’t seen it, but I can say it must be an amazing scene. Layers of mountains, desert, Rio Grande River, valleys, etc. combine perfectly to make this area perfect for the hikers, campers, and nature lovers. Being so close to Mexico border, if you want you can even go for a short visit to Mexico. Don’t forget to take your legal documents with you. There are plenty of places to enjoy in this National Park. Also, Big Bend national Park is famous for its light pollution free dark sky. I camped one night there and was amazed to the night sky. It felt special to see the sky full of stars, even the milky way is much clearer than any other places. I am going to list some of the places I visited within the two days span of time:
1. Lost mine trail
Lost mine trail is one of the popular hikes in this national park. This hike is relatively easy and with a view of Chisos mountain ranges. The hike is 4.8 mile (round trip) with an elevation gain of 1100 feet. Once you are at the top, the trail suddenly opens to a huge open area that provides the view of the mountains and valleys of Big Bend.
2. Emory peak
Emory peak is the highest point (7825 feet) in the whole park mountain range. You can get a view of the peak from the Chisos Basin Visitor Center. If you want to do this strenuous 10.5-mile (round trip) hike, you can start from the Chisos Basin trailhead. You can also go for the south rim trail and add Emory peak as an addition.
3. Window view
This trail offers a beautiful colorful sunset from a huge V-shaped notch in the mountainside along with the sky and the desert in the background in the distance. From Chisos Basin visitor center, this is only 0.3-mile trail and one of the best sunset spots in the park. Not only sunset, you can go any time of the view just to see the mountain view from the ‘window’. You may consider taking the window trail (5.6-mile round trip), if you want to go near the section of window that’s exhibits the panoramic desert view.
4. Hot spring
Did you know Big Bend has a hot spring? Well yes, one of the popular activities in the park is soaking in the hot spring which is situated in the Rio Grande Village area. The hot spring is just 0.25 miles from the parking lot area, by the edge of the Rio Grande. The average temperature is 105-degree-Farenheit, which may feel hot during the summer months. In that case, you can go for a quick dip in the river. If you want to go for some incredible views of the river and mountains, go for the hot springs scenic trail loop which is 0.75 mile in length and offers a spectacular view of the river.
5. Santa Elena Canyon
Santa Elena Canyon trail is one of the most spectacular hikes where you walk around 1.6 mile (total trip) following the edge of Rio Grande River within the boundary of 1500 feet high canyon wall on the both side of the river. Even if you don’t want to go for the hike, you can stop at the Santa Elena Canyon overlook and enjoy the view from a far distance. But to be honest, the view you will get from the overlook don’t provide the whole scenario. In case of low river water, you can simply walk into the canyon near the far end of the trail.
6. Ross Maxwell scenic drive
If you want to enjoy the scenic view from the car, Ross Maxwell Scenic drive is your place. This 30-mile scenic drive starts at Panther junctions and eventually pass though some outstanding scenery of the desert and finally ends at the Santa Elena Canyon area. You can stop at Sotol vista overlook and home Wilson Ranch Overlook to appreciate some desert view. Mule Ears viewpoint also provide the view of the twin peaks, the cores of ancient volcanoes.
Important facts: Even you are on a road-trip and your trip in limited to big bend national park, there are several check posts. So, keep your legal documents with you. If you are hiking in the desert, take enough water, snacks, hat and sunscreen. And as always, please practice leave no trace principle. I feel its our duty to keep this planet beautiful and our everyday action is responsible for this. So, let’s do whatever we can to keep this earth more wonderful than ever.
Source:
Plan Your Visit – Big Bend National Park (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov)
VisitBigBend – Lodging, Food, and Activities for the Big Bend Region of Texas