Big Bend National Park Day Hikes

Big Bend National Park, located in southwest Texas, is a haven for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. The park boasts over 150 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to strenuous treks through rugged terrain. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, there are plenty of day hikes in Big Bend National Park to explore. Here are a few of the park’s best day hikes.

1. The Window Trail

The Window Trail is a 5.2-mile round trip hike that leads to a stunning natural feature known as “The Window.” The trail begins at the Chisos Basin Trailhead and descends 800 feet into a narrow canyon before reaching The Window, a V-shaped opening in the rock wall that frames a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape. The trail is relatively easy, but hikers should be prepared for some steep sections and rocky terrain.

2. Lost Mine Trail

The Lost Mine Trail is a 4.8-mile round trip hike that offers stunning views of the Chisos Mountains. The trailhead is located in the Basin parking lot, and the trail climbs steadily through a forested area before reaching a series of switchbacks that lead to the summit. From the top, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The trail is rated as moderate and is suitable for hikers of all skill levels.

3. Santa Elena Canyon Trail

The Santa Elena Canyon Trail is a 1.7-mile round trip hike that leads to one of the park’s most iconic features, the Santa Elena Canyon. The trail begins at the Santa Elena Canyon Trailhead and follows the Rio Grande River before entering the canyon. The canyon walls rise up to 1,500 feet on either side, and hikers can walk right up to the water’s edge. The trail is relatively easy, but hikers should be prepared for some rocky terrain and river crossings.

4. South Rim Trail

The South Rim Trail is a 12.4-mile round trip hike that offers some of the most spectacular views in the park. The trailhead is located at the Chisos Basin Visitor Center, and the trail climbs steeply up to the South Rim, offering panoramic views of the Chisos Mountains and the surrounding desert landscape. The trail is rated as strenuous and is best suited for experienced hikers.

5. Emory Peak Trail

The Emory Peak Trail is a 9.6-mile round trip hike that leads to the highest point in the Chisos Mountains, Emory Peak. The trailhead is located at the Chisos Basin Trailhead, and the trail climbs steadily through a forested area before reaching a series of switchbacks that lead to the summit. From the top, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The trail is rated as strenuous and is best suited for experienced hikers.

6. Grapevine Hills Trail

The Grapevine Hills Trail is a 2.2-mile round trip hike that leads to a unique rock formation known as Balanced Rock. The trailhead is located at the Grapevine Hills Trailhead, and the trail winds through a desert landscape before reaching the balanced rock, which is perched atop a small hill. The trail is relatively easy, but hikers should be prepared for some rocky terrain and steep sections.

7. Boquillas Canyon Trail

The Boquillas Canyon Trail is a 1.4-mile round trip hike that leads to a scenic overlook of the Rio Grande River. The trailhead is located at the Boquillas Canyon Trailhead, and the trail follows the river before reaching the overlook. Along the way, hikers can spot a variety of birds and wildlife. The trail is relatively easy, but hikers should be prepared for some rocky terrain.