Looking for good tips on a trip to Big Bend National Park? We’ve got you covered! It is one of our favorite parks, and we are happy to share some insider tips with YOU!
My husband visits Big Bend National Park multiple times of year. It is one of his two favorite parks. Today, he joins me to discuss his top recommendations for YOU to fall in love with this outstanding national park. For more background on this park’s geological history, be sure to read THIS post.
Welcome to Big Bend National Park!
Hike!
Ryan’s top hiking recommendations at Big Bend are:
- Emory Peak – This is a hike to the highest peak in Big Bend National Park. It is about nine miles, and it ascends around 2500′. It is considered strenuous.
- Santa Elena Canyon – This is one of Big Bend’s most iconic hikes to visit one of its most precious national feature: Santa Elena Canyon! It is around 1.3 miles, and it is considered an easy trail. We highly suggest this for families with young children!
- South Rim Loop Trail – This 13 mile trail offers some of the park’s most spectacular views. The elevation gain is around 2600′, so it is considered a strenuous hike.
- Lost Mine Trail – This hike offers many outstanding views that are similar to the South Rim Trail views. However, since the hike is far less strenuous, it is a top pick for families.
Beg Bend offers hikes through many different types of terrain. From mountain vistas, to desert flowers, you can find a hike that will meet your tastes!
If you love Santa Elena Canyon, be sure to check out the incredible canyons of our other national parks!
Hot Springs
First, get to the hot springs, you’ll need to hike the Hot Springs Trail. The hike itself is about 1.5 miles round-trip, so it’s a pretty easy and accessible trail. Along the way, you’ll get to enjoy some beautiful views of the Chisos Mountains and the Rio Grande River.
When you get to the hot springs, you’ll find a series of pools that are fed by natural hot springs. The water is crystal clear and warm, with temperatures ranging from around 90 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit (32 to 40 degrees Celsius).
You can visit the hot springs year-round, but be aware that they can get pretty crowded during peak season (usually from November to April). If you want to avoid the crowds, try visiting during the summer months when the park is a bit quieter.
As with any natural hot springs, it’s important to take some precautions. Be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat since the sun can be pretty intense in the park. Also, be aware that the pools can be pretty slippery, so wear appropriate footwear and be careful when entering and exiting the pools.
During high waters or Rio Grande flooding, the springs may be full of river water. Due to sewage contamination issues in the Rio Grande, you should check with park rangers about water quality in the hot springs prior to taking the plunge!
Boquillas Canyon Crossing to Mexico
Boquillas Crossing is a small border crossing between the United States and Mexico. It’s located on the Rio Grande River. You can only access it by foot or by rowboat.
When you arrive at the crossing, you’ll need to present your passport to the border patrol.
Depending on the river level, you may want to pay a small fee to have a Mexican resident row you across and into Mexico.
Once you’re on the other side, you can walk about half-a-mile or catch a ride into the charming town of Boquillas del Carmen. It’s a great place to grab some authentic Mexican food and drinks. You can also buy some souvenirs.
Just remember that Boquillas Crossing is a real border crossing, so it’s important to follow all the rules and regulations. You should check with a park ranger before making this crossing due to changes and seasons of safety.
Make sure you have all the necessary documentation and be respectful of the border patrol officers. And of course, be respectful of the local community as well!
Wildlife Viewing
One of the great things about each national park is the unique wildlife you can find within its borders. In Big Bend, you can find Mexican black bears that are smaller than those of the Rockies. They are known to be more docile; however, you always need to be “bear aware” and take precautions.
Mountain lions are the other apex predator of Big Bend. You will likely never see them, but they will see you. Keep any children very close to you while hiking.
Other notable wildlife in the park include javalinas, roadrunners, tarantulas, and rattlesnakes. The snakes can be your biggest threat. Be sure you to read our post about the rattlesnakes in Big Bend HERE, and know how to keep your family safe.
Go Offroading
For those who love to offroad, Big Bend offers unique adventures! The park includes numerous trails including a Jeep Badge of Honor Trail. There is a gas station within Big Bend near its Panther Junction Visitor Center.
Canoe or Kayak the Rio Grande River
The Rio Grande River creates the southern border of Big Bend. This special river which divides two nations is worth some extra exploration. Consider hiring park-approved outfitters to take a guided paddle through the majestic walls of Santa Elena Canyon and continue south to take in the park’s beauty. Some outfitters to consider are: Big Bend Boating & HIking Company or Wild Adventure Outfitters.
Backcountry permits are required to float the Rio Grande.
Visit Big Bend’s History Sites
From mining to ranching, from the CCC to the army, Big Bend is full of history and the ruins that tell its story. Be sure to check out our post on Big Bend’s can’t miss historic sites!
Visit the Eccentric Ghost Town of Terlingua
If you’re looking for a fun and unique spot to visit during your Big Bend adventure, this funky little ghost town is located just outside the park. You’ll find all sorts of interesting sights, from abandoned mines to art galleries and shops selling everything from local crafts to antiques.
There are also plenty of great restaurants and bars in town where you can grab a cold beer or some delicious Tex-Mex cuisine. If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind destination that’s full of character and charm, Terlingua is definitely worth a visit!
Visit Marfa, Texas
If you’re a fan of art, culture, and quirky small towns then Marfa is also worth a visit! This little town in West Texas has become a hot spot for contemporary art and culture with plenty of galleries, museums, and installations to check out.
You’ll also find plenty of great restaurants, cafes, and bars serving up everything from delicious coffee to craft cocktails.
Although Marfa is almost two hours from Terlingua, but it can be a fun adventure for those interested in the artistic culture of West Texas.
No matter how you prefer to spend your time, the charming and rustic Big Bend National Park will offer you both respite and adventure. We highly recommend this park. Show up with an open mind, a head of curiousity, and our list of recreational opportunities. Welcome to Texas, y’all!
