• Sierra del Carmen

    Big Bend

    National Park Texas

There are park alerts in effect.
show Alerts »

  • PANTHER JUNCTION VISITOR CENTER TEMPORARY CLOSURE

    The Panther Junction Visitor Center will be closed Tuesday May 28 and Wednesday May 29 for needed maintenance. Information, backcountry permits, and entrance fee payments can be taken care of at the Chisos Basin Visitor Center.

Scenic Vistas

Rain falling over the Chisos Mountains
The vast size and undeveloped nature of Big Bend allows ample opportunity for sweeping views of the desert landscape.
Eric Batchelder
 

Whether you are in the park for an afternoon or a week, the scenic vistas, overlooks, and waysides are worth the trip. Big Bend National Park experiences over one mile in relief from the top of the Chisos mountains to the Rio Grande. Many of the most expansive views are achieved from the upper reaches of the mountains, though overlooks are found throughout the entire park.

While in the park, finding time for scenic overlooks like Sotol vista, the Santa Elena Canyon Overlook and the Window View Trail could help make a more memorable trip.

Did You Know?

Amon Carter presenting President Roosevelt the deeds to Big Bend

President Franklin Roosevelt received the deed to the property of the Big Bend on D-Day (June 6, 1944). The park was formally established six days later, and officially opened to visitors in July 1944. More...