Hiker on the Window Trail, Big Bend National Park by Ryan Becker
Hiking in Big Bend National Park
Part 1 of the 5-part series:
Big Bend National Park is one of the largest, most remote National Parks in the lower 48 states, yet it remains one of the least visited parks. "So?" You say to yourself, shoulders shrugging..."Why would I want to go to such a barren 'No Country For Old Men' type of place? Much less hike there?"
I get it. Big Bend country is known for being a hard, hot wilderness region. It's the Texas portrayed in Hollywood films, strong and imposing in it's beauty.
Well, I'm here to tell you that in terms of trekkable terrain, looks can be deceiving and the various hiking opportunities Big Bend Country offers are worth exploring.
In many circles, Big Bend National Park is sort of a best-kept secret and its repeat visitors know this. Nearly two thirds of Big Bend's visitors are people who have been here before, who can't wait to come back and discover more of its unique beauty.
Where is Big Bend National Park Located?
Big Bend National Park is located on the far Western edge of the state, just beyond the last tumbleweed of Texas Hill Country. Here, for more than 1,000 miles, you'll find the mighty Rio Grande river snaking through the state. This mighty river, or Río Bravo as it is called in Mexico, forms the natural boundary between the Mexico and the United States. The park is named after this area, which is bounded by a large bend in the Texas-Mexico border.
Big Bend remains one of the last “wild” corners of the United States and the National Park System. There are trails for every skill level from easy and short to long and tough. Many trails in the area are well marked and easily followed and can be hiked on your own, however hiring a guide can provide a more complete Big Bend experience.
Big Bend National Park Geography and Terrain
Four geographic areas make up Big Bend National Park:
Eastside - Panther Junction and Rio Grande Village
Southside - The Chisos Mountains
Westside - Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive
Northside - Persimmon Gap
Hikes are categorized as day, desert, or river depending on their terrain. Additionally, the hikes are divided into the following categories based on length, time, and level of concentrated joy.
Level 1: An Easy Walk (1 hour or less) An easy, cell-activating jaunt for any curious rambler.
Level 2: A Moderate Day Hike (1-5 hours) A basic day hike, satisfying with a refreshing finish.
Level 3: A Hardy Trek (5 hours or more) A full-bodied, possibly sweat-inducing hike.
In part 1 (coming tomorrow) we'll cover the easy and moderate hikes found in the Eastern part of Big Bend, near Panther Junction and in the Rio Grand Village. Parts 2-4 will cover popular hikes found in the Chisos Mountains, Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive area, and Persimmon Gap. It's good to know that day hiking doesn't require a backcountry permit; backcountry permits are only required for hikes more than 1 day, overnight camping, and multi-day excursions.