Big Bend National Park

Pictures courtesy of the -Geoff Gallice: Big Bend National Park.

Big Bend National Park is located along the winding Rio Grande river on the border of Mexico and the US. The Park stands as a testament to the rugged beauty of the American Southwest. Encompassing vast desert landscapes, towering mountain peaks, and winding river canyons, this park offers an immersive experience into the diverse ecosystems of the region. From its rich cultural history to its unparalleled vistas, Big Bend beckons adventurers, nature enthusiasts, and seekers of solitude alike to explore its untamed wilderness.

Website:	Big Bend National Park
Map:	Park Map
Visitor Centers:	Panther Junction Visitor Center: The best place to begin your visit. Exhibits provide an overview of geology & natural and cultural histories of the park. The visitor center complex includes a Big Bend Natural History Association bookstore, U.S. Post Office, and restrooms. A water faucet is available for filling personal water containers Chisos Basin Visitor Center: Includes interactive exhibits on plants, animals, and birds found in the Chisos Mountains. A Big Bend Natural History Association bookstore and restrooms are located at the visitor center. A water faucet is available on the east side of the building for filling personal water containers Castolon Visitor Center: Located in the Castolon Historic District, the Castolon Visitor Center is open daily during the winter months. The Castolon Visitor Center has a Big Bend Natural History Association bookstore and nearby restrooms. The visitor center is located in the historic Garlick House, immediately behind the Magdalena House Exhibits. Stop by to meet a ranger and plan your adventure. Rio Grande Village Visitor Center: New exhibits focus on the Rio Grande (how it has changed over time, how the NPS works with our Mexican counterparts to protect and care for it, and the rich assemblage of species that it supports). An outdoor ramada showcases a large raised-relief map of the area, and life-sized bronze sculptures showcase some of the area’s special wildlife. River use permits are issued during normal business hours Persimmon Gap Visitor Center: Located at the north entrance to the park, Persimmon Gap Visitor Center offers park orientation and information. The visitor center has exhibits, bookstore, mini-theater, and restrooms.
How to get There:	From the North: Take US Highway 385 South towards Marathon, Texas. Continue on US-385 South for approximately 70 miles until you reach the park entrance. From the South: Take Texas Highway 118 North towards Study Butte/Terlingua. Continue on TX-118 North for about 70 miles until you reach the park entrance.

Big Bend National Park holds a rich tapestry of history, spanning millennia. Evidence suggests human habitation dating back thousands of years, with ancient indigenous cultures leaving their mark on the landscape through petroglyphs and artifacts. In more recent times, Spanish explorers traversed the area in search of riches, leaving behind tales of adventure and conquest. However, it wasn’t until 1944 that Big Bend was designated as a national park, preserving its rugged beauty and cultural heritage for future generations to explore and appreciate.

Within the vast expanse of Big Bend National Park lie numerous attractions that draw visitors from around the world. The iconic Santa Elena Canyon, with its towering cliffs and winding river, offers unparalleled views and opportunities for adventure. The Chisos Mountains, a hub of biodiversity, boast scenic hiking trails, breathtaking vistas, and the enchanting Chisos Basin. Boquillas Canyon provides a serene escape, where the Rio Grande meanders between limestone cliffs, inviting exploration by land or water. And for those seeking relaxation, the historic Hot Springs offer a soothing soak amidst the desert landscape.

Big Bend National Park holds immense significance as a haven for biodiversity, cultural heritage, and outdoor recreation. Its diverse ecosystems, from the Chihuahuan Desert to the riparian zones along the Rio Grande, support a vast array of plant and animal species, many of which are found nowhere else in the United States. The park’s preservation ensures the protection of critical habitats and the continuation of ongoing scientific research. Moreover, Big Bend serves as a refuge for solitude-seekers and adventurers alike, offering opportunities for hiking, camping, stargazing, and river rafting in a pristine wilderness setting. As one of the largest and most remote national parks in the contiguous United States, Big Bend stands as a testament to the importance of conservation and the enduring beauty of the natural world.

Santa Elena Canyon: Stand in awe as you gaze up at the towering cliffs of Santa Elena Canyon, where the Rio Grande flows through a narrow chasm, reaching heights of over 1,500 feet. This geological marvel offers visitors a chance to hike along the river’s edge, witnessing the dramatic contrast between the steep canyon walls and the tranquil waters below.

Chisos Mountains: Escape into the heart of Big Bend’s wilderness by exploring the rugged terrain of the Chisos Mountains. Follow winding trails that lead to hidden waterfalls, pristine meadows, and panoramic viewpoints offering sweeping vistas of the surrounding desert landscape. Keep an eye out for resident wildlife, including black bears, mountain lions, and a variety of bird species.

Boquillas Canyon: Embark on a journey through time as you float down the Rio Grande, carving your way through the majestic Boquillas Canyon. Towering limestone cliffs rise on either side, creating a natural sanctuary for an abundance of flora and fauna. Keep your camera ready to capture glimpses of bighorn sheep scaling the canyon walls or colorful songbirds flitting among the treetops. For an immersive experience, consider hiking the Boquillas Canyon Trail, which winds along the riverbank, offering opportunities for birdwatching and peaceful reflection.

Hot Springs Historic District: Step back in time as you soak in the warm waters of the historic hot springs, a cherished oasis nestled along the banks of the Rio Grande. Relax your muscles and unwind in the therapeutic mineral waters, which have drawn visitors seeking rejuvenation for centuries. As you soak, imagine the stories of indigenous peoples, pioneers, and travelers who have sought solace in these healing waters throughout history. After your soak, take a leisurely stroll along the riverside, soaking in the tranquil ambiance and timeless beauty of this unique natural treasure.

Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive: The thirty-mile Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive leads to the Castolon Historic District and Santa Elena Canyon. Along the way the road showcases some of the historic and geologic features this region is famous for.