Top Things to do in Big Bend National Park
The 7 Best Things to do Good for Adrenaline Seekers in Big Bend National Park, Big Bend National Park
Huge national park in Texas that spans 801,153-acres filled with limestone canyons, rivers, sand and forests.
1. Chisos Mountains
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 334 reviews
A great spot for the outdoors-lover in Big Bend National Park.
Reviewed By 994linday - Frisco, United States
Born from volcanic activity more than 35 million years ago, the Chisos Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop to the Chihuahuan desert. The Chisos hold two honors: not only are they the southernmost mountain range in the continental US, but they are also the only mountain range to be contained entirely within a National Park. Some of the best hiking trails that get you up close and personal to the Chisos have trailheads that begin in the Chisos Basin near the Chisos Mountains Lodge. Favorites here include the South Rim, Lost Mine, and Window Trails. You can also hike to Emory Peak, the highest point in the Chisos Mountains at 7,825 ft (2,385 m) above sea level. Hiking in the mountains provides a totally different experience than desert or river hikes. Take into consideration the altitude, heat and sun. Always hike with adequate water, at least 2-3 liters. And at sunrise/sunset – look for the alpenglow!
2. Emory Peak
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 96 reviews
The highest peak in the park at 7,835 feet.
Reviewed By DutchTX - The Woodlands, United States
Difficult, day long hike, be ready to climb; nave good shoes etc. with you. Pretty rough the last mile; especially last 50 yards, if you want to reach the real top, you really need to climb, and not afraid of heights. BEST HIKE of the park; personally not recommended for (small) kids.
3. The South Rim Loop
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 99 reviews
This trail gives a great hike with amazing views.
Reviewed By darwinmoore - Spring, United States
You simply can't do better than this. We took Pinnacles up, then Boot Canyon to the South Rim Trail, then Laguna Meadows home. I had read somewhere that you could do the South Rim in just under 9 miles, but I don't see how -- even if you just go out to the edge, look out and return. Our trip was around 14.5 miles, with a fair amount of meandering around the rim when we got there, and about 2500 feet of elevation gain. The bulk of elevation gain is up front on the way up the Pinnacles Trail, although you gain some more on the final approach to the South Rim from Boot Canyon (which itself is also unexpectedly lush and gorgeous). The views at the rim are fabulous, Grand-Canyon-esque type vista views. You earn this one, and you'll be proud you did.
4. Santa Elena Canyon
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 661 reviews
Borders the western edge of Big Bend National Park.
Reviewed By travelerfromsj - San Jose, United States
This is an easy hike with probably the most bang for the buck of any trail in Big Bend National Park. It’s 1.5 miles out and back with 80 feet of elevation, and it takes you into the canyon along the banks of the Rio Grande river, with 1500 vertical feet of limestone cliffs towering above the trail. The only problem is that to even start this trail you have to first cross Terlingua creek, which connects with the Rio Grande River right after the trail head. You have three options here: 1. Visit Big Bend when there has been little to no rain and the creek is dry. 2. Take off your shoes (or put on water sandals), hike up your pants, and wade across the creek. This is a great option if the creek is low, but when we visited in early November, Terlingua “creek” was about 50 feet wide and maybe 2 ½ feet high. At that point I would call it a river! I only saw one person wade across when we were there. 3. When you reach the creek, turn right and walk down a little ways until the creek turns into a thin stream. Then walk across and look for a steep, narrow little path that goes up the banks of the creek. Climb up this path (it’s about 20 feet up) and then scramble through the rocks and plants at the top until you reach the start of the trail. When I was there, that’s pretty much what every hiker did, including one man who managed it while holding a baby. I’ve posted pictures with this review that show what this unofficial path looks like. Hopefully they’ll build a bridge over the creek at some point, but for now I think the unofficial path is the best bet during the rainy season. This is a great trail with stunning views, and it’s well worth the rather difficult start.
5. Lajitas Zipline
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 32 reviews
Lajitas Zipline at Lajitas Golf Resort is located in Quiet Canyon in Lajitas, Texas. Lajitas Zipline is located in the Big Bend region of Texas and features 8 world class lines where your adventure will take you high over the desert floor reaching speeds of 50 mph plus.
6. The Balanced Rock
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 147 reviews
Reviewed By BestTravelsNow - Hereford, United States
Springtime visit resulted in amazing blooms and colors on the drive to the trail head. The trail itself is easy to slight challenge towards the end. Amazing colors all along the trail. Lots of lizards. Very much enjoyed the trail
7. Lajitas Zip-Line Tour
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 66 reviews
This family friendly adventure is a must-do for everyone visiting Lajitas Golf Resort and Spa. Enjoy the breathtaking views of Big Bend while soaring 300 feet above scenic Quiet Canyon! Your experienced and friendly tour guides will lead you through the course, consisting of four lines ranging from 250 to 2000 feet in length.
