Hike these popular hiking trails in this underrated national park in Texas.
Hike one or more of these trails in Texas’ most significant national park and one of the top tourist attractions in Texas. Though Big Bend National Park in far West Texas is beautiful and scenic, it’s still one of America’s least-visited national parks. Here are 9 top scenic hikes in Big Bend National Park that are great for all levels. Hopefully, Texas Travel Talk will be able to visit in 2025.
Big Bend National Park is located on the southern tip of West Texas and is the biggest national park in the state, covering 800,000 acres. It boasts stunning canyons, arid deserts, mountains, and many hiking trails, from easy to complex. The best thing about this park is that you can witness incredible views of the Rio Grande.
Top Scenic Hikes In Big Bend National Park
Hikers looking to discover these top hiking trails should visit Big Bend when the weather is nice. The best time to visit the park is when the weather is comfortable, from October through April. Otherwise, summers can get scorching hot, and winter can be chilly.
One reason most travelers don’t visit this park as much as the others is that it’s just too far from everything, including airports. But if driving the whole way, flying into El Paso or Odessa, renting a car, and then driving to the park is a great option.
Big Bend National Park is approximately 6 hours from Marfa, Marathon, and Terlingua.
Once in Big Bend National Park, there are numerous hiking trails with options for beginners, novices, and experienced trekkers. These are some of the top trails to check out in Big Bend NP.
The 9 Top Hikes In Big Bend National Park
Big Bend National Park is a hiker’s true gem in far West Texas, and there is no shortage of trails. With over 150 miles of trails and 800,000 acres to explore, you’ll make a full day of it and some. Bring lots of water.
I have a senior pass for life. If you plan to visit more national parks, an $80 lifetime pass is well worth it. Other types of passes are also available.
Admission in most parks: Vehicle entrance $30; Person walking in $15 (no cash accepted)
1. Balanced Rock via Grapevine Hills Trail
Grapevine Hills Trail is a relatively leisurely hike with minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for the whole family. Although the latter part of the hike is rocky and steep, the views and photos of Balanced Rock are worth it. Reviewers say the parking lot is small, and the trail can be crowded during peak season.
- 1.9 Miles out-and-back near Terlingua
- 4.8 Stars on AllTrails
- Easy to Moderate
- Open year-round
- No dogs
2. Santa Elena Canyon Trail
Texas isn’t just about sunny skies and bustling cities; it’s also home to some of the most picturesque canyons in the USA. The iconic Santa Elena Canyon trail is one of the best hikes in Big Bend National Park. It is an easy hike suitable for all ages. The trail has switchbacks and concrete steps and is rocky before descending into the canyon and meeting the Rio Grande. You’ll witness captivating backdrops and the chance to spot native wildlife.
Take the Ross Maxwell scenic drive to the end, then hike the trail.
- 1.6 Miles
- 4.7 Stars on AllTrails
- Easy hike
- Open year-round
- No dogs
3. Boquillas Canyon Trail
The climb overlooks the Rio Grande before dropping to the sandy shore. Reviews say there are beautiful views, river access, and wildlife sightings, such as wild horses. Limited shade and steep sections can be a challenge.
- 1.4 miles
- 4.5 stars on AllTrails
- Moderate hike
- An average of 45 or less minutes to complete
4. Window Trail
Take the Window Trail from the Chisos Basin Trailhead. Initially, take your time because the return is all uphill. This trail is near the small town of Terlingua.
You’ll see stunning views and fascinating rock formations. The trail is well-marked but has steep climbs. It’s a popular hike and AllTrails #2 hike.
- 5.5 miles out-and-back
- 4.8 Stars on AllTrails
- A Moderate hike
- Over two hours to complete
- Open year-round
- No dogs
5. Emory Peak Trail
To climb to the highest peak of the Chisos Mountains, take the Emory Peak Trail. It’s a long, strenuous hike that takes 5-6 hours. Choose a couple of different ways to go on this trail. Both are hard, but the views are stunning. According to AllTrails, “It’s one of the best hikes in Big Bend National Park to view wildlife, namely black bears.” Reviewers have seen other wildlife on this trail.
- 15+ miles
- 4.9 stars on AllTrails
- Hard difficulty
6. Rio Grand Village Nature Trail
If you only have 25 minutes to spend in nature, take this easy nature trail through boardwalks and over a pond that leads up to a beautiful ridge that offers a fantastic panoramic view of the Rio Grande.
7. Lost Mine Trail
According to AllTrails, the Lost Mine Trail is the number one trail in the park. It’s the perfect choice for a generous dose of the flora and fauna of the Chisos Mountains. The trail has multiple viewpoints, so short-on-time or less experienced hikers can complete some of it, stopping at the lower viewpoint before returning to the parking lot. As you hike, look for the stunning views of Casa Grande, Juniper Canyon, and the larger Chisos basin.
- 4.8 miles out-and-back
- 4.9 Stars on AllTrails
- Trail is moderate
- Open year-round
- No dogs allowed on the trail
8. Lower Burro Mesa Pouroff Trail
For a short, easy, and breathtaking hike, take this trail and marvel at the water pouring down from the walls of the rocks. It is just a mile long and great for the whole family.
9. Big Bend Hot Springs Trail
The Hot Springs trail was there way before Big Bend became a national park, and so was a Hot Springs Resort that accommodated overnight guests. The only remains are historic ruins. Along the trail is a primitive hot springs pool with temperatures around 105ºF. Check before going in for a soak.
- 1.2 miles
- 4.5 stars on AllTrails
- Considered an easy hike
- Kid-friendly
- No dogs
These top scenic hikes in Big Bend National Park are only a part of this park. Indulge in its greatness and spend as much time in nature as possible! That’s something I wish I could do every day!
Sources:
- AllTrails.com
- Book: USA National Parks: The Complete Guide To All 63 Parks by Becky Lomax
- Big Bend National Park
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