Discover Big Bend

Big Bend National Park & Big Bend Ranch State Park are located in the same region of Texas. Still, they have distinct differences in size, management, recreational activities, and visitor experience.

Size

- Big Bend National Park: It covers approximately 801,163 acres, making it one of the largest national parks in the United States.

- Big Bend Ranch State Park: It spans about 311,000 acres, which is still considerable but smaller in comparison to the national park.

Management

- Big Bend National Park: It is managed by the National Park Service, a federal agency. The park focuses on preserving natural and cultural resources while providing recreational opportunities.

- Big Bend Ranch State Park: It is managed by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department at the state level. The management emphasis is on resource protection, outdoor recreation, and educational programs.

Recreational Activities

- Big Bend National Park: It offers a wide range of activities, including hiking, camping, backpacking, birdwatching, wildlife viewing, river rafting on the Rio Grande, stargazing, and scenic drives.

- Big Bend Ranch State Park: It provides opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, camping, birding, wildlife spotting, and backcountry exploration. The park also allows hunting in certain areas during designated seasons.

Accessibility

- Big Bend National Park: It has more developed infrastructure, including paved roads, visitor centers, campgrounds, and designated trails. The park has better accessibility for visitors of all ages and abilities.

- Big Bend Ranch State Park: It has a more rugged and remote setting, with limited facilities and infrastructure. Some areas may be accessible only by high-clearance vehicles or on foot, making it more suitable for experienced outdoor enthusiasts.

Visitor Experience

- Big Bend National Park: It attracts more visitors, including tourists worldwide. The park has iconic landmarks like Santa Elena Canyon and the Chisos Mountains, and it offers a diverse range of ecosystems, from desert landscapes to mountainous regions.

- Big Bend Ranch State Park: It tends to provide a more secluded and tranquil experience due to its remote nature. It appeals to visitors seeking solitude, wilderness exploration, and a more off-the-beaten-path adventure.

• Know where your going with maps and GPS.

• Know all your impactful conditions.

• Carry plenty of water & then carry more.

• Off pavement=high clearance vehicle.

Scenic Drives.

There are three types of roads in Big Bend region; paved, unimproved, and primitive. Most visitors will stay on paved roads, but for those of you who like a little adventure, the latter two options often will provide spectacular backroad opportunities allowing you to discover things most visitors never get to see. Backroad safety is critical and should be your first consideration before you adventure off of the pavement. Big Bend National Park provides some good information about Backroad Safety that is applicable to any backroad area you may chose to travel in the region. Big Bend NP website has great resources for you to read up on before and during your trip to the park. Check out the Scenic Drives page to plan your discovery.

For those who have traveled its windy curves and steep hills, know it is one of the most spectacular scenic drives in Texas. El Camino del Rio or better known as “The River Road” winds and traverses fantastic scenery from Study Butte & Terlingua to Presidio passing through a little known town called Lajitas and Big Bend Ranch State Park along much of the way. The “Big Hill” has two pull-outs which both offer some of them most incredible views of the Rio Grande River you will ever see. Along the way it is worth visiting the Barton Warnock Visitor Center which has great information about Big Bend Ranch State Park and Fort Leaton, another historical park along the road.

FM 2810 (Pinto Canyon Road) – This road starts on the west side of Marfa and traverses through some beautiful grasslands with Pronghorn and then views of the Chinati Mountains. After about 25 miles this road becomes unpaved and eventually may require some high clearance vehicles. The views along the way are very different from any other road and definitely worth the journey.

Davis Mountains Loop (TX 118, TX 166, TX 17) – Begin in Fort Davis, head northwest along TX 118 to Davis Mountains State Park and check out the bird blinds and trail. After visiting the park, stop at the McDonald Observatory and a tour will introduce you to some of the wonders of the universe. Departing there, you will travel the Davis Mountains and experience a wide range of habitats. There are no services along this road until you return to Fort Davis. A stop at Point of Rocks Rest Area is a nice break before fully returning to Fort Davis.

US 90 – This east/west route traverses west Texas from Van Horn on the west end to Langtry in the Trans Pecos. Each of the towns along the route have their own personality and wonderful experiences. Marfa offers a lot of unique and quirky features and Alpine has some wonderful art shops along Holland Avenue. In Marathon, the White Buffalo Bar serves a dang good Prickly Pear Margarita and the Prairie Dog Town just north of town on US 385 is a fun stop. After heading back east on US 90 to Sanderson, the terrain will change and you will head into the Cactus Capital of Texas. To conclude, a stop at the Judge Roy Bean Visitor Center in Langtry is well worth your time.

Hiking.

Big Bend National Park offers a variety of beautiful hiking trails that cater to different skill levels and interests. Here are some recommendations for hiking in Big Bend National Park:

Santa Elena Canyon Trail: This trail is one of the most popular hikes in the park, known for its stunning views of towering cliffs and the Rio Grande. The trail is about 1.7 miles (2.7 km) round trip and takes you through a deep canyon.

Lost Mine Trail: This moderate 4.8-mile (7.7 km) round-trip hike offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Chisos Mountains. It's a great option for seeing the sunrise or sunset and provides a good opportunity to spot wildlife.

Window Trail: This 5.6-mile (9 km) round trip trail takes you to "the window," a dramatic V-shaped notch in the Chisos Mountains. It offers beautiful views of the desert landscape and the Chisos Basin.

South Rim Loop: If you're up for a challenging hike, the South Rim Loop is a fantastic option. This 12-mile (19 km) loop takes you to the rim of the Chisos Mountains, providing stunning vistas of the surrounding canyons and mountains. It's recommended to start early in the day and bring plenty of water.

Emory Peak Trail: For experienced hikers seeking a more strenuous challenge, the Emory Peak Trail is the highest point in Big Bend National Park. This 10.5-mile (16.9 km) round-trip hike offers incredible views but requires good physical condition and stamina.

Boquillas Canyon Trail: This easy 1.4-mile (2.2 km) round-trip hike takes you along the Rio Grande, allowing you to see unique rock formations and enjoy the river scenery. You can also visit the Mexican village of Boquillas del Carmen by crossing the river via a rowboat (bring your passport).

Prepare adequately for your hikes by bringing plenty of water, sunscreen, and appropriate clothing and footwear. Additionally, check the trail conditions and weather forecast before heading out. Have a safe and enjoyable adventure in Big Bend National Park!

Biking.

Biking in Big Bend Ranch State Park can be a thrilling and rewarding experience, as the park offers a variety of trails and beautiful landscapes to explore. Here are some recommendations to enhance your biking adventure in the park:

1. Check trail conditions: Before heading out, check the trail conditions and any closures or restrictions. Contact the park office or visit their website for the most up-to-date information. This will ensure you choose the suitable trails for your skill level and avoid surprises.

2. Choose appropriate trails: Big Bend Ranch State Park has a range of trails suited for different abilities. If you're a beginner or prefer more leisurely rides, consider starting with the Closed Canyon Trail or Fresno-Sauceda Loop. For more advanced riders, the Contrabando Trail or Dome Loop offers more challenging terrain and longer distances.

3. Carry essential gear: Always carry essential gear, such as a helmet, repair kit, extra tubes, pump, plenty of water, snacks, and a map or GPS device. The park is remote, and it's essential to be prepared for any situation.

4. Be mindful of the weather: Big Bend Ranch State Park experiences extreme weather conditions, especially during summer. Check the weather forecast and plan your biking trips accordingly. It's crucial to avoid biking during excessive heat or severe weather events.

5. Respect wildlife and vegetation: The park is home to diverse wildlife and fragile ecosystems. Respect the park's rules and regulations by not disturbing wildlife, staying on designated trails, and refraining from picking or damaging vegetation. Preserve the park's natural beauty for future visitors.

6. Enjoy scenic routes: Big Bend Ranch State Park offers breathtaking landscapes and panoramic views. Take the time to stop, rest, and appreciate the stunning scenery along your biking route. Some notable scenic trails include the Madera Canyon Trail and Ojito Adentro Trail.

7. Plan for camping or lodging: If you plan on spending multiple days biking in the park, consider camping or securing lodging at Big Bend Camp. The park also has several campsites and lodging options, but making advance reservations is recommended, especially during peak seasons.

8. Follow trail etiquette: Be considerate of other trail users, including hikers and horseback riders. Yield appropriately, maintain a safe speed, and communicate your presence when passing. Leave no trace by picking up any trash or waste you may generate during your biking trip.

Remember, Big Bend Ranch State Park is a remote and rugged area, so it's essential to be self-reliant and adequately prepared. Enjoy your biking adventure and take in the natural beauty of this incredible park!