National Park Service LogoU.S. Department of the InteriorNational Park ServiceNational Park Service
National Park Service:  U.S. Department of the InteriorNational Park Service Arrowhead
Big Bend National ParkThe Mule Ears Peaks are a major landmark in the western portion of Big Bend
view map
text size:largestlargernormal
printer friendly
Big Bend National Park
Take a Hike
 
Hiking the Grapevine Hills Trail
Ed Bollech
Hiking the Grapevine Hills Trail.
 

Big Bend National park is a hiker’s paradise containing the largest expanse of roadless public lands in Texas. More than 150 miles of trails offer opportunities for day hikes or backpacking trips.

Elevations range from 1,800 feet at the eastern end of Boquillas Canyon to 7,832 feet atop Emory Peak in the Chisos Mountains. These elevation changes produce an exceptional variety of plants, animals, and scenic vistas.

Getting started
Big Bend has hiking experiences for just about everyone! For introductory hikes, you might consider one of our Self-Guiding Trails.

Find a dayhike
Big Bend is a big park; to make it a little easier, we divide the park into geographical areas: East Side Hikes, West Side Hikes, Mountain Hikes, and North End Hikes.

For something a little out in the desert, if you have a high-clearance or four-wheel drive vehicle, you might consider one of our Backcountry Dayhikes.

Going Backpacking?
For longer, overnight hikes, please visit our backpacking pages.

 
Will you survive the sun?
Survive the Sun
What you need to know about heat safety
more...
Ranger Hat
Ranger-led programs
Join a park ranger to learn more about Big Bend
more...
The Deadhorse Mountains
The Backcountry
Big Bend's backcountry areas provide excellent opportunities for hiking, floating, and camping.
more...
 Hiking Hot Springs Canyon
What to See and Do
Suggested itineraries to help you make the most of your visit
more...
Remains of the Dorgan House  

Did You Know?
Big Bend area resident Albert Dorgan first proposed the idea of an international park on the Rio Grande in the fall of 1934. The remains of his adobe home are located a short distance from Santa Elena Canyon.

Last Updated: August 20, 2006 at 12:56 EST