Things to Do in Big Bend National Park: Top Sights and Original 3, 5 & 7-Day Itineraries
Big Bend National Park, in far West Texas, protects a vast stretch of the Chihuahuan Desert, the Chisos Mountains and the canyons of the Rio Grande along the Mexican border. It is one of the least crowded and darkest-sky national parks in the US.
This guide covers the best things to do in Big Bend, 3, 5 and 7-day itineraries with Terlingua, Big Bend Ranch State Park and Marfa, plus where to stay and practical tips.
Top things to see in Big Bend National Park
Santa Elena Canyon
Sheer 1,500-foot cliffs over the Rio Grande.
Chisos Basin
Mountain heart of the park.
Window Trail
Hike to a dramatic pour-off.
Lost Mine Trail
Panoramic ridge views.
Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive
Desert overlooks and ruins.
Boquillas Canyon
River canyon on the Mexican border.
Hot Springs
Historic riverside soaking pool.
Dark skies
International Dark Sky Park.
Big Bend National Park in 3 days: an original itinerary
1Day 1 · Chisos Mountains
Start early with the Lost Mine Trail for sunrise views, then explore the Chisos Basin visitor center. Lunch at the Chisos Mountains Lodge. In the afternoon, hike the Window Trail. Watch the sunset through the Window and stargaze.
2Day 2 · Ross Maxwell Drive
Drive the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive past the Sotol Vista and Mule Ears overlooks to Santa Elena Canyon. Picnic lunch. Walk into Santa Elena Canyon in the afternoon. Dinner in Terlingua.
3Day 3 · East side
Visit Boquillas Canyon and the Hot Springs Historic District to soak in the 105°F pool by the Rio Grande. Picnic lunch. In the afternoon, cross to Boquillas del Carmen, Mexico, with a passport when the port of entry is open. Stargaze in the evening.
Big Bend National Park in 5 days
Follow the 3-day plan above, then add these two days:
4Day 4 · Big Bend Ranch
Drive the River Road (FM 170) through Big Bend Ranch State Park, among Texas's most scenic drives. Lunch in Lajitas. In the afternoon, hike Closed Canyon. Return to Terlingua.
5Day 5 · Emory Peak
Hike to Emory Peak, the highest point in the park at 7,832 feet. Picnic lunch on the trail. In the afternoon, return to the Basin. Dinner at the lodge.
Big Bend National Park in 7 days
With a full week, keep days 1 to 5 and finish with:
6Day 6 · Marfa
Drive to Marfa for art installations, the Chinati Foundation and the Marfa Lights viewing area. Lunch in Marfa. In the afternoon, Prada Marfa. Stay overnight.
7Day 7 · Last day
Return via Alpine or Fort Davis and the McDonald Observatory. Lunch on the road. The nearest major airports are Midland and El Paso.
What to do in Big Bend National Park on a weekend
For a weekend in Big Bend, combine the Chisos Basin, Santa Elena Canyon and stargazing.
It's remote, so plan long drives.
What to do in Big Bend National Park in the evening
Evenings mean stargazing under some of the darkest skies in the US.
Terlingua's porch at the Starlight Theatre is a classic.
Big Bend National Park for couples
Couples can stay in a casita in Terlingua, soak in the hot springs and watch sunset at the Window.
Big Bend National Park with kids
Families enjoy the Hot Springs, short hikes and ranger programs.
What to eat in Big Bend National Park
Tex-Mex
Border classics.
Chili
Terlingua hosts chili cook-offs.
Brisket
Texas barbecue.
Prickly pear
Margaritas and candy.
Breakfast tacos
Fuel for hikes.
Where to stay in Big Bend National Park: best areas
Chisos Mountains Lodge
Only lodging inside the park.
Terlingua
Casitas and quirky stays.
Lajitas
Resort.
Camping
In the park.
What to do in Big Bend National Park when it rains
On rainy days, visit the visitor centers, drive scenic roads or explore Terlingua's ghost town.
How much does a trip to Big Bend National Park cost?
Expect $150 to $250 per night, $30 per vehicle park entry and $20 to $30 for meals.
Practical tips for Big Bend National Park
Best time to visit
October to April.
Getting around
A car is essential; fill up on fuel.
Our practical tips
- Book lodging early.
- Carry lots of water.
- Fill your gas tank.
- Bring your passport for Boquillas.
- Check road conditions.
- Download offline maps.
Mistakes to avoid
- Hiking in summer heat.
- Running out of fuel.
- Underestimating distances.
- Forgetting a passport.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best things to do in Big Bend?
Santa Elena Canyon, the Chisos Basin, the Window Trail and the Hot Springs.
When is the best time to visit?
October to April.
How many days do you need?
Three to five.
Can you go to Mexico?
Yes, via Boquillas Crossing with a passport.