Big Bend National Park
- WD - Home
- Sep 18
- 2 min read
Updated: Oct 5
National Park Travel Guide
Few parks can match the remote and vast allure of Big Bend National Park. Nestled along the majestic Rio Grande, this 800,000-acre expanse of desert, canyons, and mountains beckons with a solitude that's a rare find in most national parks. It's a realm of extremes: blistering desert floors, the crisp embrace of Chisos' mountain air, and rivers that carve deep canyons through limestone cliffs, offering a unique experience for every nature lover.
Remote and rugged, Big Bend is where desert, river, and mountains meet under endless sky.
How to Get There
Big Bend is remote—part of its charm. The closest airport is Midland-Odessa (MAF), about 3.5 hours away. El Paso is five hours. You'll need a car; public transit isn't an option. The main entrances are Persimmon Gap, Panther Junction, and Rio Grande Village. Many combine a visit to Big Bend with a trip to Marfa, the quirky desert art town located about three hours northwest.
Know Before You Go
Big Bend, despite being one of the least visited national parks, is not for the unprepared. Summer temperatures can soar above 110°F, making it essential to carry more water than you think you'll need. With few gas stations, it's wise to fill up whenever you can. If you plan to cross the border into Mexico via the Boquillas Crossing Port of Entry, be sure to check the hours beforehand.
Best Time to Visit
Fall and spring are ideal, with temperatures in the 70s and 80s. Winter is pleasant but chilly at night, dipping into the 30s. Summer is brutally hot and best avoided unless you're prepared for desert extremes.
Best Things to Do
Scenic drives: The Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive offers sweeping desert views that end at Santa Elena Canyon.
River trips: Paddle the Rio Grande through canyons like Boquillas or Santa Elena for unforgettable perspectives.
Hot Springs: Soak in the natural hot springs along the river near Rio Grande Village.
Stargazing: Big Bend is one of the darkest parks in the country—astronomy programs here are unreal.
Best Hikes
Lost Mine Trail (4.8 miles): Panoramic mountain views with manageable effort.
Santa Elena Canyon Trail (1.7 miles): Short, dramatic hike into towering canyon walls.
South Rim (12–15 miles): A bucket-list backpacking trip with sweeping views of the Chihuahuan Desert.
Where to Stay
Chisos Mountains Lodge: The only lodge inside the park. Book well in advance.
Campgrounds: Rio Grande Village, Chisos Basin, and Cottonwood offer different vibes.
Terlingua: Quirky ghost town with cabins, casitas, and desert-chic Airbnbs.
Where to Eat
Starlight Theatre (Terlingua): Iconic desert dining with chili, live music, and a lively porch scene.
Rio Bravo Restaurant (Boquillas, Mexico): Take the river crossing and grab authentic Mexican dishes.
Stock up on supplies in Alpine or Marathon before heading into the park.
