Leaving highway 90 at Marathon we came to the Big Bend country toward sunset, that part of Texas where the Rio Grande makes a U-shaped bend in its course. In a lifetime spent in traveling, here I came upon the greatest wonder. The mantle of God touches you; it is what Beethoven reached for in music; it is panorama without beginning or end. - Ludwig Bemelmans, 1956

Big Bend's backcountry provides excellent opportunities for hiking, backpacking, camping, driving unpaved roads, and river running. Permits are required for overnight camping, horse use, and for floating the river.