Big Bend National Park Introduction

Big Bend National Park is located in southwest Texas, hundreds of miles from the nearest cities and transportation hubs. While the isolation of Big Bend National Park is a drawing point for many visitors, it also means that your trip must be well prepared and carefully planned.

Big Bend National Park and the surrounding area is a diverse natural area of river, desert, and mountains. In the heart of Big Bend National Park lie the Chisos Mountains. Ascending the slopes of the Chisos, leads to evergreens like pinyon pine and juniper, and oak trees. Here, in this mountain island surrounded by a desert sea, one can find flora and fauna unique to the Chihuahuan desert and some unique to Big Bend.

Big Bend National Park’s desert mountains and stark desert landscapes are offset by a ribbon of water named the Rio Grande that slicing through it all. The Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River corridor represents an example of Chihuahuan Desert, and highlights how species depend on the rare aquatic and riparian habitats of the river.

Outdoor Activities
Big Bend National Park has a multitude of hikes, many of which are short, easy walks and roadside exhibits where you can stretch your legs and enjoy the sights, smells and sounds of the Chihuahuan Desert. If you have the time, you may want to consider a river trip. Seeing the park’s canyons from the middle of the Rio Grande is both fascinating and gratifying. There are many possibilities, from half–day floats to extended seven–day excursions.

	Lodging near Big Bend National Park
	Find Hiking & Biking Trails in Big Bend National Park
	Big Bend National Park Guide Books
	More Big Bend National Park Outdoor Activities
	Big Bend Website on NPS.gov

Location