Ranger-curated one-day highlights itinerary for Big Bend National Park.
Itinerary
Ranger-curated Big Bend day with early mountain light, canyon hikes, and a scenic drive.
Sunrise at Window View (Chisos Basin)
Join a ranger for an evening campground program at this outdoor amphitheater set among the juniper trees and red rock hillsides.
Short walk from the Basin campground.
Bring a warm layer; mornings are cool at elevation.
Lost Mine Trail
The Lost Mine Trail climbs to the side of Lost Mine Peak, offering spectacular views of Juniper Canyon and the Northeast Rim of the Chisos.
One of the best moderate hikes in the park.
Parking is limited; arrive early.
Chisos Basin lunch
Join a ranger for an evening campground program at this outdoor amphitheater set among the juniper trees and red rock hillsides.
Refuel before heading to the west side.
Carry extra water for the afternoon heat.
Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive
Stop at Sotol Vista and Mule Ears Viewpoint.
Afternoon light highlights the desert textures.
Santa Elena Canyon
The trail begins at the end of the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive to Santa Elena Canyon, and is one of the prettiest short trails in the park. The trail crosses Terlingua Creek, takes you to the river’s edge inside the canyon and continues farther winding among large boulders until it ends abruptly where the canyon wall meets the river.
Short hike into the canyon with river views.
Sand can be hot; wear sturdy shoes.
Sunset at Sotol Vista
Classic Big Bend sunset with distant mountains.
Arrive early for a front-row spot.
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