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Big Bend National ParkDesert scene along the Glenn Springs Road
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Big Bend National Park
Scenic Vistas
Rain falling over the Chisos Mountains
Eric Batchelder
The vast size and undeveloped nature of Big Bend allows ample opportunity for sweeping views of the desert landscape.
 

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.

Soldiers near Boquillas, 1941  

Did You Know?
In 1942 soldiers from Fort Bliss installed a machine-gun emplacement along the Rio Grande pointed at Boquillas, Mexico. This was done due to fears over border security and a possible Japanese invasion through Mexico.

Last Updated: August 18, 2006 at 10:29 EST