Best Trails in Big Bend National Park

Always check with park rangers before driving Black Gap. 4x4 with high clearance is a must. We did it in a stock JKU, but thank goodness for skid plates! Coming from the south, it's harder to see the one drop-off (pictured).

Great views even on a cloudy day. Hiked out via Pinnacles Trail (clockwise), adding Emory Peak spur and then continuing on toward the South Rim via Boot Canyon. I did not see photos prior to the hike, so it was an added thrill when the rim came out of nowhere after hiking through a meadow. Also thrilling: watching thunderstorms develop over the desert, and racing them back to Chisos Basin. 19.8 miles for the whole route, according to my phone, in about 8 hours.

Challenging but worth every second! Beautiful views are worth the sore feet after. Can't wait to do this one again!

Gorgeous views. There is a massive boulder on the trail the size of a small house that is nice to sit under on a hot day. The rock formations rising on each side of the rio are mesmerizing. Make sure to bring more than enough water--it was 114 F the day I went and I ran out before the day was up.

Sun went down while we were here. Was spooky great.

Trailhead was right next to our Roosevelt Stone Cottage. Awesome.

Interesting rock formations and terrain. Just my son Matt and I. It was great.

Scenic drive from Panther Junction to the Rio Grande Village. Make sure you stop to take pics at the overlook after going through the tunnel.

Great little hike to add in as a second hike of the day. Starting relatively flat, you will wind across, and sometime follow, a dry creekbed. Prepare for sandy spots that feel like you are walking on a beach. Some scrambling at the end will lead you up to the balanced rock for some fun pics.

Great trail. Likely to see mountain lion if traveled in the dark. Lots of uphill work. A little dangerous at the top. Can get slick and slippery with rain. Bring lots of water! Beautiful scenery.