What to Do When You Arrive

• Check out the visitor center. Park headquarters at Panther Junction is a good place to get oriented to Big Bend. A relief map, interpretive displays, and bookstore provide excellent information. A short, self-guided nature walk will familiarize students with the local flora. Panther Junction Visitor Center is open from 8:00am-6:00pm daily. Other visitor centers are located at the Chisos Basin, Persimmon Gap, and Rio Grande Village.
• Go to a program with a ranger. Park rangers offer daily interpretive programs on a variety of topics. Programs include walks, talks, hikes, and evening slide presentations. Check the interpretive activity schedule on park bulletin boards for times and topics. The schedule is also posted on the website for planning prior to your arrival.
• Take a hike! Big Bend has hundred of miles of trails for you to explore. They range greatly in distance and difficulty. Some trails are self-guided with trail brochures to enhance your experience.
• Become Junior Rangers. Junior Ranger activity books are sold at park visitor centers for $2.00. By completing the activities in the book, students can earn badges, patches, bookmarks, and certificates. It’s a good way of learning more about the park during your visit.
• Be flexible. Don’t get frustrated if everything doesn’t go exactly as planned. Some of the best teachable moments are unplanned. Take advantage of opportunities as they arise.