Welcome to Big Bend National Park

"A land of strong beauty—

often savage and always imposing."

Sometimes considered "three parks in one," Big Bend includes mountain, desert, and river environments. An hour's drive can take you from the banks of the Rio Grande to a mountain basin nearly a mile high. Here, you can explore one of the last remaining wild corners of the United States, and experience unmatched sights, sounds, and solitude.

"He who drives in and drives out without letting the motor cool, may see, to be sure, some most interesting natural objects, but he will not know, and can never love, Big Bend."

                                                        -Freeman Tilden, 1945

Big Bend is one of the largest and least visited of America's national parks. Over 801,000 acres await your exploration and enjoyment.

Extensive paved roads allow for a quick look at the landscape, and over 150 miles of dirt roads provide for an more adventurous perspective. Hiking trails can be found along the river, in the desert, and in the Chisos Mountains; trail lengths vary from short dayhikes to multi-day backcountry hikes such as the difficult Marufo Vega and Outer Mountain Loop hikes.

Other possible activities in the park include (and are not limited to) birdwatching, bike riding, floating the river, and much more. Use the information in this section to plan ahead to make the most out of your Big Bend experience.