Big Bend National Park

Remote desert landscape straddling the Rio Grande with dramatic canyon formations and pristine night skies. Essential for hiking, river rafting, and experiencing vast untouched wilderness in West Texas.

Things to do

• Hike the Chisos Mountains — Traverse scenic mountain trails offering panoramic desert vistas, with options ranging from short walks to strenuous summits like Emory Peak.
• Rio Grande River Rafting — Experience multiday or half-day guided rafting trips through iconic canyons including Santa Elena, Mariscal, and Boquillas with professional outfitters.
• Stargazing at Night Sky Observatory — Witness some of North America's darkest skies and clearest views of the Milky Way at designated viewing areas, especially near Chisos Basin.
• Big Bend Hot Springs Walk — Hike to natural thermal pools along the Rio Grande where warm mineral waters emerge from the canyon floor for a unique desert bathing experience.
• Santa Elena Canyon Trail — Walk along the Rio Grande beneath 1,500-foot limestone cliffs in one of Big Bend's most dramatic and accessible canyon formations.
• Boquillas Canyon Scenic Drive — Drive to this remote eastern canyon for river views and easy walks along scenic overlooks above the narrow gorge.
• Lost Mine Trail Hike — Climb 4.8 miles through desert scrub and pine forest to a historic mining site with sweeping views of the Sierra del Carmen.

Food to try

• Border-style Carne Guisada — Slow-cooked beef stew with potatoes and chiles served with fresh flour tortillas, a hearty West Texas staple found in park lodges and nearby towns.
• Fresh Flour Tortillas from Local Bakeries — Handmade warm tortillas prepared daily in Terlingua and Study Butte, essential accompaniment to any meal in the Big Bend region.
• Desert Prickly Pear Preparations — Local restaurants feature prickly pear cactus in salsas, jams, and even margaritas, celebrating a traditional Chihuahuan Desert plant.
• Chile Relleno with Local Poblanos — Roasted poblano peppers stuffed with cheese and topped with red chile sauce, reflecting authentic northern Mexican border cuisine.
• Authentic Charro Beans — Pinto beans cooked with bacon, jalapeños, and onions, a savory bean dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats at park dining facilities.

Local customs & good to know

• Extreme Weather Preparedness — Summer temperatures exceed 110°F and winter nights drop sharply; always carry abundant water, sun protection, and layers regardless of season.
• Respect Rio Grande Border Presence — The river marks the U.S.-Mexico international border; do not cross into Mexico, and be aware of occasional Border Patrol checkpoints on park roads.
• Fuel and Supply Planning — Big Bend is extremely remote with limited services; fill gas tanks and stock supplies in Terlingua or Alpine before entering the park, as distances between services exceed 100 miles.
• Early Trail Starts in Summer — Begin hikes before dawn to avoid midday heat, as afternoon temperatures make desert hiking dangerous from June through August.