[FULL GUIDE] 100 Must-Do Activities at Big Bend National Park

Key Takeaways:

1. Big Bend National Park offers a vast and diverse landscape, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and nature lovers.
2. Whether you’re hiking, stargazing, or exploring the park’s cultural sites, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
3. From stunning desert vistas to the Rio Grande River, Big Bend is a place of natural beauty and adventure waiting to be explored.

Big Bend National Park, located in the far southwestern corner of Texas, is a breathtaking blend of desert, mountains, and river landscapes. The park, established in 1944, is named after the large bend in the Rio Grande River that shapes the area. Known for its diverse ecosystems, Big Bend features rich desert flora and fauna, striking rock formations, and dramatic canyons. Visitors are drawn to the park not only for its beauty but also for its incredible hiking trails, opportunities for stargazing, and access to the Rio Grande. The park is a sanctuary for wildlife, including species like the Mexican black bear and the endangered Big Bend slider turtle. With its wide range of activities, Big Bend is a must-see destination for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.

100 Things to Do at Big Bend National Park

#1 Chisos Basin: Explore the heart of the park, surrounded by towering mountains and a diverse range of wildlife.

#2 Santa Elena Canyon: Hike the iconic trail through the dramatic Santa Elena Canyon, where the Rio Grande cuts through the rocks.

#3 The Window Trail: A popular hike offering panoramic views of the park’s desert landscape through a unique rock window.

#4 Hot Springs Historic District: Visit the historic hot springs along the Rio Grande for a soak and enjoy beautiful views.

#5 Stargazing at the Big Bend Observatory: Take advantage of the park’s status as a Gold Tier Dark Sky Park to view incredible stars.

#6 Boquillas Canyon: Hike into this quiet, scenic canyon and explore the area along the Rio Grande.

#7 Rio Grande Village: Stay at Rio Grande Village, where you can enjoy camping, hiking, and birdwatching near the river.

#8 Lost Mine Trail: Hike this popular trail for a moderately challenging experience with sweeping views of the park.

#9 Grapevine Hills Trail: A relatively easy hike leading to the impressive Grapevine Hills rock formations.

#10 Mule Ears Viewpoint: Stop at this viewpoint for a great view of the Mule Ears, twin peaks named for their distinctive shape.

#11 Hike the South Rim: A more challenging, full-day hike offering expansive views of the Chihuahuan Desert and the Rio Grande.

#12 The Rio Grande River: Enjoy kayaking, canoeing, or rafting along the Rio Grande, with opportunities to cross into Mexico.

#13 Big Bend Ranch State Park: Explore the adjacent Big Bend Ranch State Park, known for its rugged terrain and scenic beauty.

#14 Fossil Discovery Trail: Take a walk through this easy trail, where you can spot ancient fossils embedded in the park’s rock formations.

#15 The Basin Loop: Enjoy a scenic drive around the Chisos Basin with views of the surrounding mountains and desert.

#16 Cactus Garden: Explore the park’s cactus garden and observe a variety of unique cactus species in their natural habitat.

#17 Emory Peak: Hike to the highest point in the park for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

#18 Candelilla Wax Harvesting Exhibit: Learn about the history of candelilla wax harvesting in the park at this informative exhibit.

#19 Birdwatching at Rio Grande Village: Rio Grande Village is known for its diverse bird population, perfect for avid birdwatchers.

#20 Take a Scenic Drive to the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive: Explore this road for stunning views of the park’s desert landscape, including the Burro Mesa.

#21 Explore the Panther Junction Visitor Center: Start your adventure at the Panther Junction Visitor Center, where you can get maps, park info, and souvenirs.

#22 Go Horseback Riding: Experience the park on horseback by booking a guided tour through the desert and mountains.

#23 Hike the Laguna Meadow Trail: A moderate hike through a lush meadow with stunning views of the Chisos Mountains.

#24 Devil’s Den: Explore this unique geological feature made up of rock formations that resemble devilish faces.

#25 Hike the South Rim at Sunrise: Start early to experience the beauty of the South Rim trail with the morning light over the desert.

#26 Explore the Homer Wilson Ranch: Visit this historic ranch site and learn about the area’s early ranching history.

#27 Visit the Panther Junction Ranger Station: This ranger station offers educational programs and opportunities to learn about the park’s geology and ecology.

#28 Boquillas del Carmen: Visit the Mexican village just across the river, accessible by boat or foot, and explore its culture and local crafts.

#29 Attend the Big Bend Ranch Rodeo: If you visit during the fall, experience this rodeo showcasing local culture and cowboy traditions.

#30 Take a Sunset Photography Tour: Capture the changing colors of the desert landscape during the park’s beautiful sunsets.

#31 Go Backpacking in the Chisos Mountains: Take a multi-day backpacking trip through the rugged Chisos Mountains, known for their striking beauty.

#32 Hike the Short Trail to the Window: A short but rewarding hike that brings you to an impressive rock formation framing the desert beyond.

#33 Rock Climbing at the Chisos Mountains: Try your hand at rock climbing in the rugged terrain of the Chisos Mountains.

#34 Canoeing the Rio Grande: Paddle along the Rio Grande, where the scenic views and tranquility of the river offer a peaceful escape.

#35 Visit the Sam Nail Ranch: Explore this historic ranch site and learn about the area’s history as a former cattle operation.

#36 Take a Ranger-led Tour: Join one of the park’s ranger-led tours to get an in-depth look at the history, wildlife, and geology of the area.

#37 Hike the Pinnacles Trail: This moderate hike offers incredible views of the park’s unique rock formations and desert landscape.

#38 Drive the River Road: A scenic drive along the Rio Grande with opportunities for wildlife viewing and desert exploration.

#39 Visit the Big Bend National Park Cemetery: Pay your respects at the park’s historic cemetery, offering insight into the park’s early history.

#40 Stargazing at the Big Bend Visitor Center: Watch the stars from the visitor center, known for its pristine views of the night sky.

#41 Hike the Tuff Canyon Trail: A short but rewarding hike that takes you through narrow canyons carved by volcanic activity.

#42 Visit the Terlingua Ghost Town: Explore the nearby ghost town of Terlingua, known for its old mining operations and eerie atmosphere.

#43 Chisos Basin Campground: Camp under the stars at this popular campground located within the Chisos Mountains, offering amazing views.

#44 Explore the Rio Grande Overlook: Stop at this overlook to see stunning views of the Rio Grande and the surrounding canyons.

#45 Go for a Desert Walk: Take a guided walk through the park’s desert landscape to learn about the local flora and fauna.

#46 Swim at the Hot Springs: Relax in the natural thermal waters of the Hot Springs, located along the Rio Grande.

#47 Hike the Outer Mountain Loop: A strenuous, multi-day hike that takes you through the park’s most remote and rugged areas.

#48 Visit the Big Bend National Park Museum: Learn about the history of the park and the people who lived there before it became a protected area.

#49 Explore the Burro Mesa: Take a hike through this unique mesa for panoramic views of the desert landscape.

#50 Go Wildlife Watching: Spot animals such as the Mexican black bear, mountain lions, and a wide variety of bird species.

#51 Explore the Mariscal Mine: Visit the remnants of this old mine and learn about its history during the mining boom.

#52 Take the Old Ore Road: Drive this rugged road for an off-the-beaten-path adventure with stunning views of the surrounding desert.

#53 Visit the Castolon Historic District: Explore the historical area of Castolon, once a trading post and military site.

#54 Drive the West River Road: Take a scenic drive along the West River Road, offering access to less-traveled parts of the park and stunning views.

#55 Wildflower Viewing in Spring: Visit the park in spring to witness the desert come alive with vibrant wildflowers.

#56 Hike the Burro Springs Trail: A short hike that offers a peaceful escape through the desert with incredible views of the surrounding mountains.

#57 Check out the Rio Grande Village Nature Trail: An easy walk along the Rio Grande, perfect for those looking for a leisurely exploration of the area.

#58 Night Photography at the Chisos Mountains: Capture the beauty of the mountains and desert under the starlit sky.

#59 Hike the Los Diablos Trail: A short trail that offers panoramic views of the park’s dramatic landscapes.

#60 Visit the Museum of the Big Bend: Located in nearby Alpine, this museum offers an in-depth look at the region’s cultural and natural history.

#61 Climb the Cerro Castellan: For an adventurous climb, tackle this peak offering sweeping views of the park and the Rio Grande.

#62 Take a River Tour: Explore the Rio Grande with a river tour, offering a unique perspective of the border and the dramatic canyon walls.

#63 Relax at the Rio Grande Village RV Park: Stay at the RV park for a comfortable experience with easy access to park activities.

#64 Explore the Hot Springs Historic Area: Discover the history of the hot springs area, where early settlers and Native Americans once bathed.

#65 See the Ancient Petroglyphs: Search for ancient petroglyphs created by indigenous peoples that are scattered throughout the park.

#66 Hike the Emory Peak Trail: For a rewarding experience, hike to the highest point in the park, offering stunning 360-degree views.

#67 Go Mountain Biking: Explore the park’s dirt roads and rugged terrain by mountain bike for an adventurous way to see the sights.

#68 Join the Annual Big Bend Ranch Rodeo: Attend this fun event that showcases local culture and cowboy traditions, held every fall.

#69 Visit the Panther Junction Interpretive Center: Stop by to get park maps, information on tours, and learn about Big Bend’s diverse ecosystems.

#70 Explore the Big Bend Oasis: Hike to this lush oasis in the desert, where you can find a variety of wildlife and unique plants.

#71 Try Desert Camping: Spend the night in the park’s designated campgrounds or in the backcountry for an immersive desert experience.

#72 Watch a Desert Sunset: Enjoy breathtaking sunsets over the desert landscape, where the sky and land transform in vibrant colors.

#73 Go Canoeing on the Rio Grande: Paddle the Rio Grande for a peaceful experience and explore the narrow sections of the river.

#74 Join a Ranger-Led Fossil Walk: Learn about the fossils found in Big Bend and their significance during a ranger-led tour.

#75 Take the Big Bend Scenic Byway: Drive the scenic byway through the park to see stunning vistas and diverse landscapes.

#76 Visit the Terlingua Abandoned Mine: Explore the remnants of an abandoned mine in Terlingua, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region’s mining past.

#77 Hike the South Rim at Twilight: Experience the beauty of the South Rim trail during twilight when the desert is bathed in soft, golden light.

#78 Explore the Chihuahuan Desert: Take a guided tour through the Chihuahuan Desert ecosystem, where you’ll learn about its unique flora and fauna.

#79 See the Bison at Big Bend: Spot the herds of bison that roam the park’s wild open spaces, a true symbol of the American wilderness.

#80 Take a Photography Workshop: Join a photography workshop to capture Big Bend’s stunning landscapes and wildlife with expert guidance.

#81 Enjoy a Picnic at the Chisos Basin: Have a peaceful picnic at the Chisos Basin, surrounded by towering peaks and spectacular views.

#82 Hike the Laguna Meadows Trail: A moderately challenging trail that offers incredible views of the Chisos Mountains and the desert below.

#83 Visit the Castolon Historic District: Step back in time and visit this former military post and trading center for an insight into the area’s history.

#84 Relax in the Hot Springs: Soak in the historic hot springs located along the Rio Grande for a relaxing experience in the natural thermal waters.

#85 Watch for Wildlife at Rio Grande Village: Visit Rio Grande Village and keep an eye out for local wildlife, including javelina, deer, and bighorn sheep.

#86 See the Tuff Canyon Overlook: Stop at this scenic overlook to see the unique geological formations and views of the desert.

#87 Hike to the Lost Mine Trail: A popular trail that offers views of the Chisos Mountains and the desert below, perfect for a half-day hike.

#88 Take a Boat Tour of the Rio Grande: Explore the Rio Grande by boat, seeing the dramatic cliffs and beautiful desert scenery from the water.

#89 Go on a Desert Adventure Tour: Take a guided jeep or ATV tour to explore the rugged desert terrain and learn about its unique ecosystem.

#90 Visit the Terlingua Ghost Town: Explore this ghost town on the outskirts of the park, offering a glimpse into the region’s mining history.

#91 Relax at the Rio Grande Village Campground: Camp near the river at this scenic campground, where you can enjoy the peaceful desert environment.

#92 Attend the Big Bend Film Festival: If you visit in the spring, join in on the Big Bend Film Festival to enjoy outdoor films and the desert atmosphere.

#93 Go Birdwatching at the Cottonwood Campground: Visit this campground, which is a great spot for birdwatching, especially during migration season.

#94 Visit the Emory Peak: Hike to the highest point in the park for breathtaking panoramic views of the park’s diverse landscape.

#95 Explore the Fossil Loop: Take a hike along the Fossil Loop to learn more about the prehistoric creatures that roamed the region.

#96 Take a Scenic Flight: See Big Bend from the sky with a scenic flight that offers incredible aerial views of the park’s vast landscapes.

#97 Hike the Pine Canyon Trail: A moderate hike through lush forested areas leading to stunning vistas of the desert and mountains.

#98 Relax by the Rio Grande: Spend some quiet time by the Rio Grande, taking in the serenity of the river with the desert backdrop.

#99 Check out the Chihuahua Desert Ecosystem: Discover the beauty of this ecosystem on a guided tour and learn about its fragile and unique environment.

#100 Take a Break at the Cottonwood Campground: Enjoy some downtime at this peaceful campground surrounded by desert beauty, a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring.

Conclusion:

Big Bend National Park is full of unforgettable experiences, and planning your visit is easy with PlanMyWeekend.ai, making sure you don’t miss any of the park’s amazing adventures.