Tour Stops

Sam Nail Ranch

In 1916, Sam Nail built a two-room house here, and together with his wife Nena, raised livestock, planted pecan, walnut, and fig trees, and raised...

Sotol Vista Overlook

This incredible view just off the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive takes in a 360-degree view of much of the western half of the park, including...

Mule Ears Viewpoint

A parking lot provides an easy view of the unusual Mul Ears mountain, a volanic rock formation that looks like a pair of mule ears.

Tuff Canyon Overlook

Three overlooks offer a glimpse into this small canyon. A trail from the southern parking lot descends into the canyon. The hike is less than...

Castolon

Explore the remants of this early 20th century community near the U.S./Mexico border. Buildings like the Alvino House and La Harmonia store interpret what...

Santa Elena Canyon Overlook

This easily accessible viewpoint offers a stunning view of Santa Elena Canyon's mouth.

Santa Elena Canyon Trailhead

Enjoy the mouth of the imposing Santa Elena Canyon, with walls 1500 feet high, just a few dozen steps away from the parking lot. There...

Dorgan-Sublett Trail

This easy, 1 mile round trip hike takes you to the remnants of two pioneer homes belonging to the Dorgan and Sublett families. The Dorgan...

Homer Wilson Ranch

A pulloff along the scenic drive provides access to a small observation deck to see the old Homer Wilson Ranch, what's left of a rancher's...

Chisos Basin

You could easily spend the day up in Chisos Basin, where the higher altitude means consistently cooler temperatures than the rest of the park. Start...

Panther Junction Visitor Center

This is the primary visitor center in the park. Watch the park video, browse the gift shop, or check out the displays on the area's...

Fossil Discovery Exhibit

This unique outdoor museum showcases the diverse fossil collection that has been discovered in Big Bend. Browse the real and replicated fossils that span over...

Dugout Wells

This oasis was once home to a school for the area's children. Today, you can take the half mile Chihuahuan Desert Nature Trail loop that...

Hot Springs Canyon Trailhead

Along the Rio Grande is what remains of a hot springs resort from the early 20th century. The hot springs are still there, along with...

Rio Grande Overlook

This overlook stands above the Rio Grande Villlage area, with the greenery surrounding the river in plain sight.

Rio Grande Village Visitor Center

Learn about the Rio Grande at this visitor center just a quarter mile from the campground. You can also get information about the Boquillas Crossing...

Rio Grande Village Nature Trail

Located in the back of the Rio Grande Village campground, this 0.75-mile nature trail starts with a series of boardwalks through wetlands and then leads...