“On moonless nights, the stars over Big Bend burn so brightly, you can see your own shadow.”
People come here expecting desert. What they find is something stranger. Fossil beds where sea creatures once swam, mountains born from fire, and canyons so deep the sun barely reaches the bottom. This is Texas at its most remote, and it’s revealing.
Big Bend doesn’t hurry to impress. But take your time, and it opens up like a good story. One full of ancient bones, outlaw trails, and skies so dark the Milky Way looks like a spilled secret.
This self-guided audio tour allows you to explore the park at your own pace. Drive past volcanoes turned to stone. Stand in the silence of Santa Elena Canyon. Hear the legends of Comanche raids and cursed silver. And stop whenever the view gets too good to ignore.
You’ll pass scenic lookouts like Sotol Vista and Tuff Canyon. Walk the quiet trails near old ranches. Marvel at fossils that date back 130 million years. And when the day ends, look up because the show above the desert might outshine everything below.
One note before you go: You won’t have a cell signal. You might not have shade. But you will have more sky than you’ve ever seen. And that’s the whole point.
Note: For all road closure updates and more, please visit the National Park Service website.
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Map Of Big Bend National Park
Where To Start?
We recommend Starting From: Big Bend National Park Sign, Alpine, TX 79830
How Does It Work?
- Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
- Download the app (while in good wifi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If there are multiple versions or entrances for your tour, be sure to download all audio guides.
- To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
- The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
- Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.
What You'll See
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Welcome
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Entrance Station
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Earth-Wreckage
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A Sea in the Desert
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Devil's Den Hike
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Santiago Draw
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Chihuahuan Desert
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The Javelina
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The Mystery of the Rosillos Mountains
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Sierra del Carmen
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First Inhabitants to Chisos
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The Jumano
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You’ve Gone Batty
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Hornfels
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Fossil Discovery Exhibit
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The Mosasaur
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Avery Canyon
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Spanish Presidios
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Colima Warbler
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King of the Cattle
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The Comanche Moon
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Village Detour Ahead
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Chisos Mountains
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Lost Oak of the Chisos
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Chico Cano
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Johnson's Ranch
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Everett Townsend
Preview The Tour
Tour FAQs
Key highlights include the Chisos Basin, Santa Elena Canyon, and the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive. Boquillas Canyon and the Langford Hot Springs are also must-visit spots for their unique landscapes and natural features.
The ideal times to visit are spring (March to April) and fall (October to November) when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant.
Popular activities include hiking, bird watching, stargazing, and river trips along the Rio Grande. The park also offers guided tours and educational programs about its rich geological and cultural history.
A minimum of three days is recommended to explore the diverse landscapes and enjoy several hikes.
The park offers various accommodations, including lodges and camping sites. Chisos Mountains Lodge provides comfortable lodging within the park, while numerous campgrounds offer spots for tents and RVs.
Essentials include water, sunscreen, hats, comfortable hiking shoes, and seasonal appropriate clothing. Also, bring navigation tools like a map or GPS, as cell service can be limited.
Yes, the park is family-friendly with various trails and programs suitable for children. However, some hiking trails and activities may be more suitable for older children and teens due to their difficulty level.
The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife including roadrunners, Mexican black bears, and mountain lions. Bird enthusiasts can also spot a variety of bird species, especially during migration seasons.
Big Bend is renowned for its dark skies, making it a prime spot for stargazing. Night sky programs are often held by park rangers, weather permitting.
While general access does not require special permits, backcountry permits are needed for overnight hikes and river trips require permits as well. These can be obtained at visitor centers.
The Santa Elena Canyon Trail and the Lost Mine Trail are both excellent for first-time visitors, offering manageable hikes with stunning views.
The park offers several accessible trails and facilities. The Rio Grande Village Nature Trail and the Sam Nail Ranch are accessible to visitors with mobility impairments.
Visitors should be prepared for remote conditions with little cell service, check weather conditions regularly, and be aware of wildlife. It’s also important to carry plenty of water and protect yourself from the sun.