Things To Do

One of the least visited national parks in the lower 48, Big Bend protects over 800,000 acres of Chihuahuan Desert, the Chisos Mountains, and 118 miles of the Rio Grande. The park is approximately 10 minutes from the property.

The Rio Grande cuts through 1,500-foot limestone walls at Santa Elena Canyon — one of the most dramatic river canyons in North America. A short trail leads to the canyon mouth.

The Chisos Mountains rise in the center of the park, and the Basin is the hub for hiking, lodging, and the park's visitor center. The Window Trail and Lost Mine Trail are among the most popular routes.

The longest of the three Rio Grande canyons in the park. A short hike leads to the canyon entrance, and a rowboat ferry crosses to the Mexican village of Boquillas del Carmen.

Texas's largest state park covers over 300,000 acres of Chihuahuan Desert west of Big Bend National Park. Less visited than the national park, it offers hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and river access.

A short, dramatic slot canyon hike in Big Bend Ranch State Park. The narrow canyon walls create a striking visual experience with minimal elevation gain.

One of Big Bend's most rewarding hikes, offering panoramic views of the Chisos Mountains and the desert below. Moderate difficulty.

A popular Chisos Basin trail that leads to a dramatic pour-off with views into the desert. Best hiked in the late afternoon for the light.

125 acres of desert wilderness surround the property. Explore on foot at your own pace — no trail required. Rock climbing is not permitted.

A 30-mile paved road through the western portion of Big Bend National Park, passing volcanic formations, historic ranch sites, and ending near Santa Elena Canyon.

An unpaved backcountry road through the western park. High-clearance vehicles recommended. Offers solitude and access to remote areas.

The paved highway between Presidio and Terlingua follows the Rio Grande through Big Bend Ranch State Park. One of the most scenic drives in Texas.

The property sits in one of the darkest sky corridors in the lower 48. Step away from the porch light, give your eyes time to adjust, and the Milky Way becomes visible to the naked eye.

The University of Texas McDonald Observatory is located in the Davis Mountains, roughly 100 miles north. It offers public star parties and daytime solar viewing programs.

A former mercury mining town that collapsed in the mid-20th century. The ruins — adobe walls, a hilltop cemetery, the old company store — still stand, and a small community lives among them. About 10 minutes from the property.

The social hub of Terlingua. The porch at the Trading Company is where locals and visitors gather in the evenings, especially at sunset. Live music on weekends.

One of the most well-known restaurants in the Big Bend area, set in a restored 1930s movie theater in the ghost town. Dinner and live music.

The Rio Grande through the Big Bend canyons is one of the premier paddling destinations in the Southwest. Outfitters in the Terlingua area offer guided trips and equipment rentals.

A small Mexican village accessible by rowboat ferry from the Boquillas Canyon area of Big Bend National Park. Bring your passport. The village has a small restaurant and artisan vendors.

The desert light in the hour before sunset and after sunrise is exceptional. The Chisos Mountains, the canyon walls, and the open desert all photograph well in this light.

The dark skies of Big Bend country make it one of the best places in the United States for astrophotography. The Milky Way is visible from late spring through fall.

The park and surrounding area support a remarkable diversity of wildlife. Early morning and late afternoon are the most active times.