First-time visitors to Big Bend National Park often arrive without a detailed itinerary in mind, and are surprised by the vast size of the park and the many opportunities it offers. Use these suggested itineraries to help make the most out of your trip.
One-Day Itinerary:Big Bend is too big to see in a single day, but a great one-day trip to the park might include a trip down the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive and a visit to the Chisos Basin. The Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive will give you fantastic views of the Chihuahuan Desert landscape and will lead you to the banks of the Rio Grande. There are scenic overlooks and exhibits along the way, and the short walks to Sam Nail Ranch and Homer Wilson Ranch and a visit to the Castolon Historic District will give you a glimpse into Big Bend’s past.
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Big Bend National Park is a wonderland of outdoor scenery and adventure. If you only have one day, this video will help you decide on the perfect itinerary. Three-Day Itinerary:With three days to spend in the park, you can explore the major roads more thoroughly and still have time for hiking. Check the latest schedule and join a park ranger for a guided walk, talk, or evening program to learn more about your park. In the Chisos Basin area, consider hiking the Window Trail (6 miles round trip) or the Lost Mine Trail (5 miles round trip). Visit the day hikes page for more information about other trails you might enjoy hiking during a three-day visit. Try to experience Big Bend's wilderness as much as possible. Week-long Itinerary:
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Last updated: February 23, 2024