Mar
2020
Big Bend National Park
Image by Ryan Buchanan
Over several weeks, we have virtually visited some of the most beautiful parks in the United States. As we approach the end of this blog, there is one last destination that needs to be shared. Growing up in Texas, I hold this park very near to my heart. It is the notorious “big bend” deep in the heart of Texas. Isolated in the far west of the state, Big Bend National Park is the most underrated national park in the nation. Its beauty is irreplaceable, and the memories created in this region will last a lifetime.
Texas is known for its blue skies that stretch for miles. Big Bend National Park offers wonderful views of a diverse landscape that is sure to amaze visitors. Take advantage of this opportunity to experience the Texas skies with a scenic drive throughout the park. Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive is a wonderful option. The route is roughly 30 miles in length and offers views of Santa Elena Canyon, Sotol Vista, Mule Ears Overlook, and Tuff Canyon.
Image by Rob Greebon
The Chisos Mountains attract avid hikers year-round. There are multiple hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the beauty of Big Bend. Emory Peak is one of the more difficult routes available. This hike ends at the highest point in the park and gives hikers a 360-degree view of the gorgeous landscape. The trail is 10.5 miles round trip and begins at the Chisos Basin Trailhead.
Image by Planet Ware
Floating the Rio Grande is considered to be one of the most popular attractions in the park. There are many options that range in mileage and duration. Floating down the Rio Grande allows visitors to catch views of the beautiful Santa Elena Canyon and the diverse ecosystem of the park. While there it is necessary to raise awareness for crossing international borders, visitors do not need to be concerned. The river does cross into Mexico, but contact with Mexican nationals is extremely rare. While landing on the Mexican bank of the river is illegal, there are many exceptions if safety measures are involved.
Image by Yinan Chen
The Fossil Discovery Exhibit is also another wonderful attraction at Big Bend National Park. This park holds an incredible fossil record that depicts the story of the region in ancient times. The center is located roughly 8 miles from Highway 385 and is open year-round from dusk to dawn.
Image by the National Park Service
Big Bend National Park offers experiences that will ensure wonderful adventures for the curious. Visit soon!
gps5272
March 28, 2020 at 2:00 am (5 years ago)From the pictures you posted here, this looks like a truly beautiful park. I wish I had money to just travel, hike, and camp in all of these state and national parks that you have gone over over the course of you blog. hat would be the life, right?
tmd5681
April 1, 2020 at 5:23 pm (5 years ago)The pictures you included in this post really make one feel as though they are right there experiencing the national park in real time. I appreciated going throughout this post and just taking in the beautiful scenery that was captured in the pictures. It was also interesting to me to see that there is an activity/option to float down the Rio Grande. That seems like it would be a really fun but also breathtaking experience as you would get to see the most beautiful parts of the park while on the water.