Big Bend National Park is so vast that there is always something new to discover, and we are here for it! We have put together a list of the absolute best things to experience while visiting this incredible destination. From desert views to mountain peaks, this quick video highlights why we love this park so much.
Watch the full guide here:
Duration: 4 minutes, 34 seconds Produced by: Big Bend Conservancy / NPS
Transcript
This transcript was generated automatically from the video's captions and may contain errors.
Sprawling over 1,200 square miles, with more than 120 miles of paved roads, 180 miles of unpaved roads, and 200 miles of hiking trails, Big Bend National Park is a lot to take in, and that's a good thing. It means that each visit can bring a new adventure and another chance to have your breath taken away by something you just can't experience anywhere else in the world. These are some of our favorite things to do in the park. From the 1/3 of a mile fully accessible Window View Trail to the 30-mile outer mountain loop, there's a hike for everyone. Most trails are 3 to 5 miles long and provide access to spectacular mountains, expansive deserts, riverside canyons, and a surprising array of historical areas. If you have water on your mind, consider Santa Elena or Boquillas Canyon River trails.
Or for a real adventure, float through Santa Elena with a river guide. At the official port of entry, you can arrange a rowboat ride across the Rio Grande into Mexico. Take a burro into the tiny village of Boquillas to practice your Spanish and enjoy a relaxing lunch. Just make sure to bring a passport for everyone, even the kids. US dollars are the accepted currency in Boquillas. Bring smaller bills for souvenirs. A slow cruise down the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive offers epic geologic highlights, scenic overlooks, and interesting roadside displays. Late afternoon drives will be greeted by sunsets against the mountains. If you're in a street legal high clearance four-wheel drive vehicle, toss some extra water in the back, air up your spare tire, and explore the back country along 180 mi of primitive roads.
Grab your binoculars because Big Bend is home to over 450 species of birds and over 200 types of butterflies, more than any other US National Park. Hot spots for our winged friends include the Rio Grande Village area, Dugout Wells, and the woodlands of the Chisos Mountains. Instead of venturing out, why not go back 130 million years at the Big Bend Fossil Discovery Exhibit. Or you can explore human history by hiking the historic Hot Springs or Chimneys Trail to discover prehistoric rock art. Or get a glimpse of farm life in the early 20th century on a self-guided tour. Don't forget to look up and enjoy Big Bend's sunrises, sunsets, and our incredibly dark night skies. You can learn about the stars on a ranger-led program. Lastly, stop by a visitor center to check the program schedule and join a park ranger for naturalist talk, guided hike, or evening program.
Hear about what makes Big Bend special. And meet those that are fortunate enough to live and work in Big Bend year-round. Remember that Big Bend is way too much to see on one visit. Pace yourself, slow down, and enjoy what each visit offers. Whatever you do, it's going to be amazing here in Big Bend National Park.
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