Best Things To Do in Big Bend National Park

Big Bend National Park is a breathtaking destination in southwest Texas offering endless opportunities for outdoor adventure, scenic beauty, and unforgettable experiences. From rugged hiking trails and high desert landscapes to the winding Rio Grande and clear starry skies, there’s no shortage of things to do in Big Bend National Park.

Table of Contents

• Scenic Drives in Big Bend
• Hiking Trails in Big Bend National Park
• Backpacking in Big Bend
• Rio Grande River Trips
• Bicycling in Big Bend
• Bird Watching
• Fishing the Rio Grande
• Stargazing in Big Bend

Scenic Drives in Big Bend

Big Bend National Park features over 100 miles of paved scenic drives and 150 miles of backcountry roads that connect desert terrain, mountain vistas, and river corridors. Popular scenic drives include:

Chisos Basin Road – 6 miles

This winding road climbs 2,000 feet into the Chisos Mountains, offering panoramic views and access to the Chisos Basin Visitor Center, hiking trails, and lodging.

Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive – 30 miles

This route highlights Big Bend’s geologic wonders. Key stops include Sotol Vista, Mule Ears Viewpoint, Tuff Canyon, and the stunning Santa Elena Canyon.

Panther Junction to Rio Grande Village – 21 miles

Descending nearly 2,000 feet, this route offers views of the Sierra del Carmen. Don’t miss Dugout Wells, the Historic Hot Springs, and river overlooks.

Persimmon Gap to Panther Junction – 28 miles

Stretching from the park’s northern entrance to headquarters, this route traverses Tornillo Flat with views of the Rosillos and Dead Horse Mountains.

Maverick Entrance Station to Panther Junction – 23 miles

Desert landscapes and wildlife viewing opportunities abound along this road, which connects with other major park routes.

Hiking Trails in Big Bend National Park

Desert Hikes

Covering 80% of the park, the Chihuahuan Desert offers unique hikes through rocky terrain and colorful wildflower blooms in spring. Watch for birds, reptiles, and desert-adapted wildlife.

Mountain Hikes

The Chisos Mountains provide cooler temperatures and diverse wildlife, including black bears and mountain lions. Popular trails include the Lost Mine Trail and the South Rim Trail.

River Hikes

Trails along the Rio Grande reveal rich ecosystems and are ideal for birding and spotting animal tracks in the mud. The Boquillas and Hot Springs trails are great choices.

Backpacking in Big Bend

Remote desert backpacking in Big Bend is recommended for experienced hikers only. Conditions are rugged and demanding, requiring topographic maps, GPS, and advanced preparation.

Rio Grande River Trips

Floating the Rio Grande

From half-day floats to multi-day excursions, paddling the Rio Grande is one of the best things to do in Big Bend. Experience deep canyons, quiet waters, and abundant wildlife along the way.

Bicycling in Big Bend

Over 250 miles of paved and dirt roads make Big Bend a premier destination for cycling. Riders enjoy stunning views and close encounters with desert wildlife—just be sure to carry plenty of water.

Bird Watching

Big Bend is a birding hotspot thanks to its location on migratory flyways. Don’t miss the chance to see the Colima warbler—found only in the Chisos Mountains in the U.S.

Fishing the Rio Grande

Fishing in Big Bend is free and license-free with a park permit. It’s a peaceful way to enjoy the Rio Grande’s quiet beauty. Just visit a visitor center to get your permit and start casting.

Stargazing in Big Bend

Big Bend has the darkest skies in the lower 48 states, making it one of the top stargazing spots in North America. On clear nights, you can see thousands of stars with the naked eye.

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Click here to see the Big Bend National Park poster.

Rob Decker is a photographer and graphic artist who had the rare privilege of studying under Ansel Adams in Yosemite National Park when he was just 19 years old. Now, Rob is on a journey to explore and photograph all of America’s National Parks. He’s creating WPA-style posters to help people celebrate their own national park adventures — as well as encourage others to get out and explore!

Click here to learn more about Rob and The National Park Poster Project!

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