Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Located in southwest Texas on the United States-Mexico border, Big Bend National Park is one of the most beautiful and diverse natural places in the nation. It includes giant desert landscapes, mountainous terrains, and the Rio Grande River, which marks the natural boundary between the United States and Mexico. Big Bend Park is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, animal lovers, and nature spa retreats as it caters to three ecosystems in one place. From hiking and driving trails to unlimited camps, all things for beginners down to explorers will be of use.
Location
Photo: Steevven1 / Wikimedia Commons
Big Bend National Park is located in southwest Texas along the U.S.-Mexico border, consisting of over 800,000 acres. This park contains everything from desert to mountainous areas and the Rio Grande River, which naturally forms the boundary between the United States and Mexico. Rich in ecosystems, Big Bend provides wonderful landscapes and abundant wildlife, along with enjoyable activities. It is a great destination for hikers, campers, and stargazers who would like to fully participate in nature caught deep within some of the most beautiful, remote locations in the country.
How To Reach
Photo: Ralf Kiepert / Wikimedia Commons
Big Bend Park is remote, part of its charm, but it takes a little more effort to get to. Here are the main ways of getting there:
By Air: The closest major airport to Big Bend Park is Midland International Air & Space Port (MAF), located about 200 miles (322 km) northeast of the park.
By Car: For those already in Texas, Big Bend is accessible by the U.S. Highway 385 from Marathon or Highway 118 from Alpine, which connects to Interstate 10.
By Train And Bus: There are no direct train or bus services to Big Bend. However, Amtrak trains stop in Alpine, about 100 miles (160 km) from the park. From there, you can rent a car or arrange transportation to reach the park.
5 Attractions To Explore In Big Bend National Park
Big Bend offers a range of breathtaking sites and activities that showcase the park’s unique landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural history.
1. Santa Elena Canyon
Photo: Ddunlop / Wikimedia Commons
One of the most iconic landmarks in Big Bend, Santa Elena Canyon is a dramatic gorge carved by the Rio Grande River, where towering limestone cliffs rise over 1,500 feet on either side. This natural marvel offers some of the most scenic and accessible hiking trails in the park, including the Santa Elena Canyon Trail, a relatively easy 1.7-mile round trip along the riverbank and into the mouth of the canyon. The view from within the canyon, with the cliff faces towering above, is simply breathtaking and provides a true sense of the power and beauty of nature.
Timings: Sunrise to sunset
Entry Fee: Included in park admission
2. Chisos Basin
Photo: Rfgagel / Wikimedia Commons
Chisos Basin, is a favourite among visitors for its scenic beauty and unique rock formations. The basin is surrounded by the Chisos Mountains, offering stunning views and cooler temperatures, making it a comfortable spot to explore even during warmer months. Chisos Basin is a great area for hiking, with popular trails such as the Lost Mine Trail, which provides panoramic views of the park, and the Window Trail, leading to a cliffside vista. For those who want to immerse themselves fully, the Chisos Basin Campground and Lodge provide comfortable accommodations.
Timings: Sunrise to sunset
Entry Fee: Included in park admission
3. Hot Springs Historic District
Photo: Brocken Inaglory / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Hot Springs Historic District offers visitors the chance to relax in natural hot springs along the banks of the Rio Grande. These springs, with an average temperature of 105°F, are ideal for soothing muscles after a long hike. The historic area around the springs includes preserved ruins of an early 20th-century resort, as well as ancient petroglyphs that provide a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural history. The area also offers a short and easy hike along the river, where visitors can take in views of the surrounding desert and spot wildlife like javelinas and lizards.
Timings: Sunrise to sunset
Entry Fee: Included in park admission
4. Boquillas Canyon
Photo: NPS Photo / Wikimedia Commons
Boquillas Canyon, located along the Rio Grande in the southeastern part of the park, is a quieter, less-travelled area with dramatic cliffs and a peaceful atmosphere. The Boquillas Canyon Trail is a 1.4-mile round-trip hike that follows the river, offering stunning views and a peaceful setting. The canyon walls here are painted in beautiful shades of orange and brown, and the area is known for its calm, reflective waters. For a cultural experience, you can cross the river into the small Mexican village of Boquillas, where locals sell handmade crafts and souvenirs.
Timings: Sunrise to sunset
Entry Fee: Included in park admission
5. Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive
Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive is a 30-mile scenic route through some of Big Bend’s most breathtaking landscapes. This drive takes visitors past historical sites, geological formations, and numerous overlooks with spectacular views of the Chihuahuan Desert. Highlights include the Mule Ears Overlook, a unique twin-peaked rock formation, and the Sotol Vista Overlook, offering panoramic views of the Rio Grande and the surrounding mountains. The scenic drive is a fantastic way to experience Big Bend’s beauty from the comfort of your vehicle, and it’s perfect for those looking to explore without a strenuous hike.
Where To Stay
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Accommodations within Big Bend are limited but varied, catering to different preferences and budgets. The Chisos Mountains Lodge, located in the Chisos Basin, is the only lodge within the park and offers comfortable rooms and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. For campers, the park has three main campgrounds: Chisos Basin Campground, Rio Grande Village Campground, and Cottonwood Campground. For more luxurious stays or unique experiences, visitors can stay in nearby towns such as Terlingua or Study Butte.
Where To Eat
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Dining options are limited within Big Bend itself, but the Chisos Mountains Lodge Restaurant offers a variety of meals with a view. In nearby Terlingua, a former mining town turned artist community, you’ll find unique eateries. Starlight Theatre Restaurant & Saloon is a favourite for its vibrant atmosphere and Tex-Mex cuisine, and DB’s Rustic Iron BBQ serves authentic Texas barbecue. Other local options include La Kiva for a Southwestern dining experience and High Sierra Bar & Grill for Mexican-inspired dishes and great views.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Katie Polansky / Unsplash
The best time to visit Big Bend National Park is during the cooler months from October to April. Temperatures in the winter and spring are mild, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking and camping. In spring, wildflowers bloom across the desert, adding a splash of colour to the landscape. Summer temperatures can exceed 100°F (38°C), which can be dangerous for hikers and campers, especially those unaccustomed to extreme heat.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Backroad Packers / Unsplash
Average Cost Of The Trip
The trip cost to Big Bend Park varies based on accommodation, dining, and activities. For a budget-friendly option, visitors can camp at one of the park’s campgrounds and bring their own food, keeping the total cost around $300 to $500 (25,000-45,000 INR) for a 3-day trip. Meals in Terlingua and Study Butte typically range from $10 to $25 (800-2500 INR) per person, and gas expenses should be accounted for, especially due to the remote nature of the park.
Tips For Travellers
- Book lodgings and campsites well in advance, especially if visiting during peak season.
- Bring essentials such as sunscreen, water bottles, hats, and layered clothing, as temperatures can vary widely between day and night.
- There are limited gas stations in and around the park, so fuel up in Marathon, Alpine, or Terlingua before entering Big Bend.
- Big Bend is home to diverse flora and fauna. Follow Leave No Trace principles and avoid disturbing plants and animals.
Big Bend National Park is a hidden gem that offers a unique opportunity to explore rugged terrains, tranquil rivers, and mountainous landscapes, all within one remarkable park. Whether you’re hiking through Santa Elena Canyon, soaking in natural hot springs, or driving along the scenic Ross Maxwell route, this park is a haven for those seeking adventure and solitude. Book your Big Bend Park tour with TripXL and experience nature.
Cover Photo: Alex Moliski / Unsplash
