3-Day Big Bend National Park Itinerary & Ultimate Guide

On our way to visit every National Park, Elliot, Ollie, and I rolled into Big Bend National Park, eager to explore its sunny trails, wide-open vistas, and star-studded night skies in early March. So to help you make the most of your visit, we’ve designed this 3-Day Big Bend National Park Itinerary, compiling the best things we saw and did! After the itinerary, we’ve laid out everything you need to know about Big Bend—from the best time to visit to where to stay the night, and everything in between!

ℹ️ About Big Bend National Park

Spanning over 800,000 acres, Big Bend National Park is one of the most remote and rugged national parks in the United States. Officially established as a national park in 1944, Big Bend is known for some of the best night sky viewing in the US, the winding Rio Grande, and the only National Park to have a mountain range completely encapsulated in its borders: the Chisos Mountains! The park also preserves the largest area of the Chihuahuan Desert in the United States. You might even recognize the park from Hollywood as No Country for Old Men (2007), which filmed part of its suspenseful chase scenes here!

📝 3-Day Big Bend Itinerary

Big Bend National Park is a remote park that isn’t located near many big cities or towns. Thus, we don’t recommend visiting this park in just one day. Even though you could push it to two days, three days is really the minimum to see all three sections of the park. This itinerary balances the park’s best hikes, scenic drives, and nearby attractions and can be rearranged by day to best suit your needs.

Day 1: Western Big Bend – Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive

On Day 1, you’ll be exploring Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, one of the most scenic drives in Texas! You can drive the road in either direction, but we recommend starting near Panther Junction Visitor Center and working towards Santa Elena Canyon. Plan to spend several hours stopping frequently—this drive isn’t about rushing! Here are some spots we recommend pulling over.

Panther Junction Visitor Center

Start your day at the Panther Junction Visitor Center, getting maps, checking out their informational exhibits, checking hike conditions from the Park Rangers, and picking up a Junior Ranger booklet if you want a fun challenge during your trip! Don’t forget to fill up on water for the day, grab gas at the nearby station, and use the bathroom before hitting the road.

Lower Burro Mesa Pour-Off Trail

The next stop is going to be the Lower Burro Mesa Pour-Off Trail. This is a quick, easy hike just off of Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive that leads into a dramatic, narrow canyon where seasonal rains create a stunning waterfall drop. The 1-mile round-trip trail is relatively flat and easy, making it perfect for stretching your legs after some time in the car. Even if the pour-off is dry (which it often is), the colorful rock walls and the experience of standing at the base of a towering cliff are worth it!

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Sotol Vista Overlook

Sotol Vista Overlook is a breathtaking viewpoint that you can reach just by pulling over! Once parked, we were blown away by sweeping views of the Chihuahuan Desert that went all the way to Mexico! We can imagine Sotol Vista Overlook being particularly beautiful during sunrise or sunset.

Tuff Canyon Overlook + Trail

The Tuff Canyon Overlook is one of the few places in Big Bend where you can peer down into a deep, rugged canyon from above. Formed from layers of volcanic ash (called tuff), this short stop offers a chance to also hike down into the canyon floor via the Tuff Canyon Trail. The full loop is less than a mile, but even if you don’t hike down, it’s worth pulling over to admire the views from the rim! We recommend walking to the viewing platform is within sight of the pull-off for parking as an easy alternative to the

Mule Ears Viewpoint

Named after the two distinct peaks that resemble mule ears, Mule Ears Viewpoint offers one of the best photo ops along the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive. You have the option to get a bit closer via the Mule Ears Trail, which takes about 90 minutes out and back to hike. Even if you decide not to hike, pulling over gives you access to sweeping views of the desert landscape and these unique volcanic formations.

Castolon Historic District

Castolon is a small historic area where you can explore old adobe buildings and learn about the early farming and military history of Big Bend. You’ll also find the Castolon Visitor Center, which provides insight into the area’s agricultural past, including an exhibit on the old Spanish ranchers and U.S. military presence. It’s a quick stop to stretch your legs and see another side of the park’s history.

Santa Elena Canyon

Driving towards the Santa Elena Canyon was a highlight of the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive for us. The towering limestone cliffs rise dramatically on either side of the Rio Grande, creating a stunning canyon that’s a must-see. We recommend you go on the Santa Elena Canyon Trail, a 40-minute, out-and-back trail that offers spectacular views of the river and cliffs. You can also take some time to walk down to the riverbank for closer views of the canyon walls.

Day 2: Central Big Bend – Chisos Basin

Today dives deep into Big Bend’s mountain heart—Chisos Basin. You’ll tackle one of the park’s best hikes, relax in natural hot springs, and finish with stargazing under the pitch-black desert sky.

Hike the Lost Mine Trail

The Lost Mine Trail is the most popular hike in all of Big Bend, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and desert, without an all-day trek. This 4.8-mile round-trip trail ascends steadily through pine forests and oak woodlands, providing incredible panoramic vistas along the way. The trailhead starts near Chisos Basin, making it an ideal morning hike before the midday heat sets in. Be sure to bring water, wear sturdy shoes, and start early to avoid the crowds.

Picnic Lunch at Chisos Basin

After your hike, head to the area around the Chisos Basin Visitor Center for a well-deserved lunch. This scenic spot is surrounded by towering mountains, providing a peaceful backdrop to relax and refuel. The area has several picnic tables where you can enjoy your meal while keeping an eye out for curious Mexican jays and wild deer, which are known to visit the area.

Fossil Discovery Exhibit

After your picnic at Chisos Basin, drive over to the renowned Fossil Discovery Exhibit for a fascinating glimpse into Big Bend’s prehistoric past. Located just off the main park road, this free outdoor exhibit features a variety of interactive displays, dinosaur fossils, and educational panels. We were surprised to find out that this now dry area was once a swampy environment full of ancient creatures!

Option 1: Hike the Window Trail During Sunset

The Window Trail is a moderate hike that takes around 2.5 hours round trip, beginning from the Chisos Basin Campground. This hike is particularly stunning during sunset, where the window-esque rock formation frames the desert landscape. The journey back was slightly more difficult for us due to the uphill, something to keep in mind when deciding whether to hike this trail or not.

Option 2: Dinner in Terlingua

If you’re done hiking for the day, another option is to take a short drive to Terlingua, a quirky, historic ghost town just outside Big Bend. Here, you’ll find a variety of local eateries, including the popular Starlight Theatre, where you can enjoy hearty Texan dishes like chili, steaks, and fresh local ingredients. Terlingua is a great spot to unwind and enjoy a delicious dinner after your active day.

Go Stargazing at Night

Wrap up your day by experiencing one of Big Bend’s most famous attractions—its starry skies. As one of the top Dark Sky Parks in the U.S., Big Bend offers unmatched opportunities for stargazing. Whether you decide to head back into the park or find a quiet spot near your lodging, you’re almost sure to enjoy an unobstructed view of the Milky Way and countless constellations!

Day 3: Eastern Big Bend – Hot Springs, Mexico, and Boquillas Canyon

Spend your final day in Big Bend blending natural beauty with cultural exploration and a bit of well-earned relaxation. This itinerary takes you along the eastern edge of the park with scenic trails, a cross-border adventure, and a sunset soak in the park’s historic hot springs!

Cross into Boquillas, Mexico

Start your final day by grabbing your passport and crossing into Boquillas, Mexico! We spent about 2.5 hours in Boquillas browsing handmade souvenirs, enjoying lunch at Boquillas Restaurant, and practicing our Spanish. It’s a slow, meaningful cultural experience that offers a completely different view of the surrounding Rio Grande region. Just make sure to return to the U.S. side before 4 PM, when the border closes for the day!

Hike to Boquillas Canyon

After returning from Boquillas, head just down the road to explore Boquillas Canyon, one of the most stunning and peaceful spots in the park. The Boquillas Canyon Trail is a 1.4-mile round-trip hike that starts with a short incline before flattening out along the river, where the tall limestone walls of the canyon rise dramatically overhead. This trail was great for spotting wildlife and soaking in the quiet beauty of the Rio Grande, all within a quick 45 minutes.

Visit the Historic Hot Springs District

End your Big Bend journey with a relaxing soak in the Historic Hot Springs District. After days of hiking and exploring, this 105°F geothermal pool right next to the river is a perfect place to unwind. The short walk to the spring also passes remnants of the old bathhouse, giving you a glimpse into the area’s past. We visited around sunset, and the golden light on the canyon walls, the sound of the river, and the warm water made for a truly unforgettable way to end our day.

🌤️ Best Time to Visit Big Bend National Park

The best time to visit Big Bend National Park is from November to April, when temperatures are mild, ranging from 60 to 80°F. These months offer perfect hiking weather, with wildflowers in spring and cooler temps in fall. We visited in March and experienced warm, but doable, days and cool nights.

Summer, on the other hand, can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F in the Rio Grande area, making outdoor activities challenging, especially in the Texas desert. Additionally, several Visitor Centers and campgrounds close from May 1st to October 31st, reducing the number of staff and open amenities in the park.

⏰ How Many Days in Big Bend National Park?

The number of days you should spend in Big Bend National Park depends on what you want to experience, but here’s a rough idea of what you could fit into varying trip lengths:

• 1 Day: In our opinion, one day in Big Bend will feel a bit rushed, given how far away it is from other major cities in Texas. But if we only had one day, we would stick to the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive.
• 2 Days: Two days will give you slightly more flexibility. You would be able to fit in another area of the park, such as Rio Grande Village. This would give you access to the Boquillas Crossing as well as the Hot Springs.
• 3 Days: Three days allow you to spend an entire day on a more challenging hike like South Rim (our overall favorite in Big Bend) or explore a handful of hikes that you have your eye on.
• 4+ Days: With four or more days, you can fully explore Big Bend, including longer hikes, scenic drives, and nearby attractions like Terlingua, making for a well-rounded, well-paced trip.

🏨 Where to Stay in Big Bend National Park

Here’s a breakdown of hotels, lodges, campgrounds, and even glamping options both within and outside of Big Bend National Park. We visited in our campervan, so we mainly stayed at campgrounds within the park.

Hotels + Glamping

• Budget — The Terlingua Ranch Lodge is located 15 miles from Big Bend National Park. A simple, affordable option with a rustic vibe, perfect for those looking for basic amenities and proximity to the park.
• Moderate — Desert Pearl is a cozy one-bedroom, one-bathroom glamping setup in Terlingua, Texas, just a short drive from the park.
• Luxury — Stardust Luxury Cottage is located in Terlingua, Texas, as well, and offers an entire apartment with two bedrooms, a kitchen, a living room, and more.

Campgrounds

Keep in mind that starting on July 1, 2025, the Chisos Basin area is expected to close for 2 years due to renovations. This will cause the campground and lodge at Chisos Basin to close. Read more on NPS’ Chisos Basin Improvement Page. That being said, here are all your camping options in and around Big Bend:

• Chisos Basin Campground — Our favorite! Cooler mountain temps and easy access to top hikes like Lost Mine and Emory Peak. There’s also a lodge in the Chisos Basin area if you prefer a more hotel-like stay.
• Rio Grande Village Campground — Best for staying near the east side, with easy access to the Hot Springs and Boquillas Canyon. RV Park with full hookups nearby as well.
• Cottonwood Campground — Generator-free campground, a quiet retreat near Santa Elena Canyon on the park’s west side.
• Backcountry Camping — Ultimate seclusion with epic night skies. Permits are required, and some areas need high-clearance AWD/4×4.
• Outside the Park — Nearby campgrounds, RV parks, and glamping options to the north and west are great alternatives if the park fills up.

🍽️ Where to Eat in Big Bend

If you’re looking to treat yourself to some Texan or Mexican food, here are a few options we found both within and around the park:

• Chisos Mountains Lodge Restaurant — The only restaurant in the park, serving classic American and Tex-Mex dishes with stunning mountain views. This lodge may be affected by the Chisos Basin renovations starting on July 1, 2025, and lasting up to two years.
• Boquillas, Mexico — Cross the Rio Grande for authentic Mexican meals like tacos and tamales in one of Boquillas’ two restaurants. US dollars are accepted.
• Terlingua, Texas — In Terlingua, you have a few spots like the Starlight Theatre serving up Texas fare, Taqueria El Milagro for authentic Mexican tacos, and Espresso Y Poco Mas for a cozy coffee and breakfast.
• Marathon, Texas — In Marathon, you have 12 Gage Restaurant for upscale southwestern dining, Brick Vault Brewery and Barbecue for smoked meats and side platters, and V6 Coffee Bar for a quick coffee and light bites.

💰 How Much Does a Trip to Big Bend Cost?

A trip to Big Bend can be surprisingly affordable or a bit of a splurge, depending on your travel style. Here’s a quick look at what you might expect to spend:

On our 6-day trip to Big Bend National Park, we spent a total of $495, not including groceries, gear, or fuel for our van. Camping in Big Bend ran us $84 total between Rio Grande Village, Chisos Basin Campground, and Backcountry Camping. An afternoon visit to Boquillas, Mexico, cost $61, covering the rowboat ride, a Parks Conservancy fee, a handmade souvenir, and a delicious lunch with margaritas.

Our biggest splurge was a guided canoe trip down the Rio Grande for $320 (including tips). Finally, we spent $30 at the park bookstores on postcards, an All Roads Taken Adventure Badge, and a patch. Since we had our America the Beautiful Pass, park entry was free.

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🚗 Getting To Big Bend National Park

Big Bend is located in a very remote area of Texas, so getting there usually requires a bit of a drive. If you don’t have access to a car, van, or motorbike, we highly recommend using a rental company. Here’s a breakdown of how to get to Big Bend via different methods of transport.

Car — Driving is the easiest option, with the park about 4.5 hours from El Paso and 7–8 hours from other major Texas cities.

Train/Bus — Take an Amtrak train or Greyhound bus to Alpine, Texas, then rent a car to drive 2 hours to the park.

Shuttle — We came across this shuttle service from Terlingua provided by Big Bend Shuttle Service, although we didn’t have to use it. Their phone number is 800-728-2860. Local tour companies and rental equipment outfitters are known to also provide shuttles into the park.

Plane — Fly into Midland (3.5 hours away) or El Paso (4.5 hours away), then rent a car for the drive to Big Bend.

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🪧 Learn More: How to Help Big Bend

Big Bend’s rugged beauty and wild landscapes face growing challenges, from drought and invasive species to increased visitor traffic and pollution along the Rio Grande. Consider supporting Big Bend Conservancy, the park’s official nonprofit partner, which helps fund projects that preserve its wildlife, historic sites, and natural beauty.

Read Next:

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📰 Related Articles

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• Boquillas, Mexico: The Perfect Half-Day Trip from Big Bend
• What to Pack for Big Bend: Ultimate Packing Guide
• The 5 Visitor Centers of Big Bend: What You Need to Know
• 17 Must-See Attractions in Big Bend National Park

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