Summit a Sky Island & Explore Canyons of the Rio Grande
Vast and remote, Big Bend's unspoiled ecosystems and phenomenal topography call out to adventurers. Walk into the stark wilds of the Chihuahuan Desert, wind your way through narrow limestone ravines and box canyons, hike between towering cliffs along the mighty Rio Grande, then cross the river in a rowboat. Climb into the rich alpine forests and rugged ridges of the Chisos Mountains, a "sky island" rising from a sea of sand, and spend evenings under inky skies spangled with stars. Your expert MT Sobek guides will identify enchanting flora and fauna, geologic marvels, and ancient petroglyphs. Together you will explore the fascinating culture and history of the Texas Mountain Trail.
Vast and remote, Big Bend's unspoiled ecosystems and phenomenal topography call out to adventurers. Walk into the stark wilds of the Chihuahuan Desert, wind your way through narrow limestone ravines and box canyons, hike between towering cliffs along the mighty Rio Grande, then cross the river in a rowboat. Climb into the rich alpine forests and rugged ridges of the Chisos Mountains, a "sky island" rising from a sea of sand, and spend evenings under inky skies spangled with stars. Your expert MT Sobek guides will identify enchanting flora and fauna, geologic marvels, and ancient petroglyphs. Together you will explore the fascinating culture and history of the Texas Mountain Trail.
Hike legendary trails including the South Rim of the Chisos and Santa Elena Canyon
[Description] => Hike legendary trails including the South Rim of the Chisos and Santa Elena Canyon
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Stay in a ghost town, hike a frontier fort, and spend an afternoon in Mexico
[Description] => Stay in a ghost town, hike a frontier fort, and spend an afternoon in Mexico
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Discover the plants, birds, and animals of three remarkable ecosystems
Hike Fort Davis National Historic Site & Explore Alpine
Day 1
Welcome to Texas! Are you ready for the ultimate Big Bend experience? Your adventure begins in El Paso on the furthest western border of the state. Your guides will pick you and your fellow adventurers up this morning from your pre-trip hotel. After an orientation meeting, drive into the Chihuahuan Desert for the day's first hike. Fort Davis is one of the best-preserved frontier forts in the Southwest. Strategically located in a stunning box canyon, it protected travelers headed for the wild west during the 1800s. Hear captivating stories of Buffalo Soldiers and frontier conflicts with the Apache and Comanche as you follow trails to sweeping views over the fort and the Davis Mountains. Continuing to the small town of Alpine, you'll have time for a street art stroll or to simply relax at the historic Holland Hotel before gathering for dinner.
Accommodation: Holland Hotel
Activity: 2 hours/3-4.5 miles hiking with 320' elevation gain and loss
Transportation: 3.5-hour private van transfer
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Visit Boquillas del Carmen in Mexico & Hike to Hot Springs
Day 2
Follow the historic Comanche War Trail south and enter Big Bend National Park via Persimmon Gap, once a strategic passage through the Santiago Mountains. Pause at the Fossil Discovery Exhibit to uncover 120 million years of history, then take in park insights at Panther Junction Visitor Center. Continue east through the park to the banks of the Rio Grande, where you'll cross into Mexico by rowboat and hike to Boquillas del Carmen, a Mexican village known for its food and scenic location beneath the Sierra del Carmen peaks. Enjoy a traditional Mexican lunch and check out the street vendors and lively main street. Return to the US for a lesser-known hike along Tornillo Creek, ending at riverside hot springs for a soothing soak (conditions permitting). Finish the day in Terlingua Ghost Town, settling into a restored historic mansion before a Tex-Mex dinner at the lively Starlight Theatre.
Accommodation: Big Bend Holiday Hotel
Activity: 4 hours/5 miles hiking with up to 200' elevation gain and loss
Transportation: 3.75-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike on the Epic South Rim Trail in the Chisos Mountains
Day 3
Today you’ll climb into the Chisos Mountains and walk along one of the most breathtaking hikes in the state, the South Rim Trail. Rising majestically from the desert floor, the Chisos form an isolated “sky island” surrounded by sand—a unique contained ecosystem. This hike offers countless opportunities to observe the dramatic shift between desert scrub and alpine forest, along with spectacular volcanic geology. The views are phenomenal, stretching as far as the Sierra del Carmen Mountains of Mexico on a clear day. The ridges and folds of the Chisos fan out before you and the Chihuahuan Desert sprawls thousands of feet below. Today’s route includes miles of trail on the South Rim itself, an unforgettable experience! Return to Terlingua to dine and then relax at the Perry Mansion. You are within the world’s largest certified Dark Sky Place, Big Bend International Dark Sky Reserve, an ideal spot for stargazing.
Accommodation: Big Bend Holiday Hotel
Activity: 7-8 hours/12 miles hiking with 2,000' elevation gain and loss (alternate hikes are possible)
Transportation: 1 hour 40 minutes private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Explore Window, Oak Spring & Santa Elena Canyon Trails
Day 4
Hike three classic trails exploring Big Bend's mountain, desert, and river ecosystems. Begin on the iconic Window Trail, follow a dirt path through cactus and chaparral across the Chisos Mountains Basin, descending into a steep river canyon that leads to the pouroff and rock “window” framing an impressive view of the basin. Then switch over to the lesser-known Oak Spring Trail for a picturesque hike out of the basin and into the desert. Stop for lunch in a shady oasis before completing the desert trail. Take the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive to the trailhead for Santa Elena Canyon and hike between sheer limestone cliffs towering 1,500 feet above the Rio Grande and this awe-inspiring signature trail. After soaking in the sights, sounds, and smells of this spectacular canyon, return to Terlingua for dinner at a local favorite and perhaps some more stargazing.
Accommodation: Big Bend Holiday Hotel
Activity: 7-8 hours/9 miles hiking with 740' elevation gain and 2,100' elevation lossrn(alternate hikes are possible)
Transportation: 2 hour 45 minute private van transfer round trip
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike the Mesa de Angulia & Admire Rock Art at Indian Head
Day 5
Hike two beautiful Big Bend hidden gems today. The Mesa de Anguila sits high atop Santa Elena Canyon and marks the western border of the park. The trail—seldom explored due to its remote location—goes from desert floor to scenic overlook, providing fantastic views of the bends of the Rio Grande and serving as a brilliant reminder of how the park got its name. Return to Terlingua for a delightful picnic lunch, then head out to explore the secrets of Indian Head Mountain. This less-traveled trail takes you through the stark desert to ancient petroglyphs, pictographs, and other remnants of Big Bend's early inhabitants, hidden amid the mountain's striking volcanic formations. Returning to Terlingua, where you should have ample time to explore the Ghost Town before gathering for a farewell dinner at the iconic Starlight Theatre.
Accommodation: Big Bend Holiday Hotel
Activity: 5 hours/7 miles hiking with up to up to 650' elevation gain
Transportation: 1-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Visit the Museum of the Big Bend, Discover Modern Art in Marfa & Depart
Day 6
Saying so long to Big Bend, travel the Texas Mountain Trail back to Alpine. Visit the award-winning Museum if the Big Bend for a deeper look at the desert's ancient fossils, Indigenous cultures, frontier history, and the larger-than-life landscapes of West Texas—the hallmarks of the region you just explored. Then savor one last hike, following the unique trail up Hancock Hill for terrific views of Alpine and the surrounding mountains. Then head to the town of Marfa, a place like no other. Marvel at the unlikely mix of modern art and Texan culture in the middle of the desert, sparked by minimalist artist Donald Judd. You will have the chance to see Judd's geometric works at the Chinati Foundation, and if time allows, explore more of this remarkable spot. Then it's time to head back to El Paso, your epic West Texas adventure coming to a close.
Activity: 3 hours/4.5 miles hiking/walking with up to up to 300' elevation gain and loss
MT Sobek has been exploring US National Parks for more than 50 years, placing a strong emphasis on responsible travel practices that support local communities and protect the natural environment.
In six spectacular and well-paced days, you'll explore rugged wilderness trails and learn about the natural, geologic, and human history of Big Bend and the Chihuahua Desert.
Hike with our expert guides, who bring the wonder of Big Bend and the Lone Star State to life, and rest in comfort at superior-quality accommodations-each with a pool.
Gather your favorite travel companionsโfamily, friends, colleagues, or clubโand enjoy an exclusive departure thatโs easy to book and completely unforgettable.
The best people to immerse you in a destination are the ones who live there, which is why we feature local Adventure Guides on our trips. Here are a few that you might meet on this adventure.
Tony P.
Always passionate about the natural world, Tony has been guiding on Hill Country rivers and in the Big Bend region for decades. Born in Fort Worth, then spending his childhood in England, he now lives on a small ranch in the Texas Hill Country. Tony is a certified Texas Master Naturalist who looks forward to sharing his knowledge of all things Texas and his thirst for adventure and discovery with you.
Mark B.
A native Texan who spent his childhood in El Paso and Austin, Mark traveled the world and sampled various professions before earning his Conservation Biology degree. In addition to guiding, he enjoys enjoyed being involved with conservation research projects in Texas and further afield. Mark loves all aspects of the Big Bend region he calls home, and he canโt wait to share this amazing West Texas wonderland with you.
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Welcome to Texas! Are you ready for the ultimate Big Bend experience? Your adventure begins in El Paso on the furthest western border of the state. Your guides will pick you and your fellow adventurers up this morning from your pre-trip hotel. After an orientation meeting, drive into the Chihuahuan Desert for the day\'s first hike. Fort Davis is one of the best-preserved frontier forts in the Southwest. Strategically located in a stunning box canyon, it protected travelers headed for the wild west during the 1800s. Hear captivating stories of Buffalo Soldiers and frontier conflicts with the Apache and Comanche as you follow trails to sweeping views over the fort and the Davis Mountains. Continuing to the small town of Alpine, you\'ll have time for a street art stroll or to simply relax at the historic Holland Hotel before gathering for dinner.
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Follow the historic Comanche War Trail south and enter Big Bend National Park via Persimmon Gap, once a strategic passage through the Santiago Mountains. Pause at the Fossil Discovery Exhibit to uncover 120 million years of history, then take in park insights at Panther Junction Visitor Center. Continue east through the park to the banks of the Rio Grande, where you\'ll cross into Mexico by rowboat and hike to Boquillas del Carmen, a Mexican village known for its food and scenic location beneath the Sierra del Carmen peaks. Enjoy a traditional Mexican lunch and check out the street vendors and lively main street. Return to the US for a lesser-known hike along Tornillo Creek, ending at riverside hot springs for a soothing soak (conditions permitting). Finish the day in Terlingua Ghost Town, settling into a restored historic mansion before a Tex-Mex dinner at the lively Starlight Theatre.
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Hike two beautiful Big Bend hidden gems today. The Mesa de Anguila sits high atop Santa Elena Canyon and marks the western border of the park. The trail—seldom explored due to its remote location—goes from desert floor to scenic overlook, providing fantastic views of the bends of the Rio Grande and serving as a brilliant reminder of how the park got its name. Return to Terlingua for a delightful picnic lunch, then head out to explore the secrets of Indian Head Mountain. This less-traveled trail takes you through the stark desert to ancient petroglyphs, pictographs, and other remnants of Big Bend\'s early inhabitants, hidden amid the mountain\'s striking volcanic formations. Returning to Terlingua, where you should have ample time to explore the Ghost Town before gathering for a farewell dinner at the iconic Starlight Theatre.
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Activity Level
This trip is rated activity level 3. Daily 4- to 8-hour hikes up to 12-miles on steep, uneven terrain with some moderate exposure to heights. Alternate hikes are possible on some days. Learn more about activity levels here.
Activity Snapshot
Day 1
2 hours/3-4.5 miles hiking with 320' elevation gain and loss
Day 2
4 hours/5 miles hiking with up to 200' elevation gain and loss
Day 3
7-8 hours/12 miles hiking with 2,000' elevation gain and loss (alternate hikes are possible)
Day 4
7-8 hours/9 miles hiking with 740' elevation gain and 2,100' elevation lossrn(alternate hikes are possible)
Day 5
5 hours/7 miles hiking with up to up to 650' elevation gain
Day 6
3 hours/4.5 miles hiking/walking with up to up to 300' elevation gain and loss
*Mileage and elevation change information is approximate and may vary slightly depending on trail conditions, weather, and route adjustments, and the guideโs discretion.
Accommodations
Modern and relaxed three-star properties in five-star settings.
The Holland Hotel, located in the heart of Alpine, Texas, is a charming historic retreat that blends Southwestern elegance with modern comfort. Originally built in 1928, this landmark hotel features beautifully restored rooms, a welcoming courtyard, and a warm, vintage atmosphere.
Perched atop a hill in Terlingua Ghost Town, this hotel offers panoramic views of the Chisos Mountains. At its center is the Perry Mansion, originally built in 1906 by mining magnate Howard Perry. This historic residence has been meticulously restored, blending period charm with modern comforts like air conditioning and Wi-Fi. The Great Room and Star Balcony provide communal spaces to relax and enjoy the stunning desert landscape.
Weather
Come prepared for a variety of conditions with lows below freezing and highs into the 80s.
Feb
Sep
Oct
Dec
Big Bend National Park
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Big Bend National Park
64
43
79
61
75
55
60
40
Midland-Odessa
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Midland-Odessa
63
34
87
62
78
52
59
32
FAQs
How should I train for my Texas National Park adventure?
The best training is hiking. Work up to hiking similar distances with your daypack loaded with the same weight and items you will be carrying on our day hikes.
Is there wildlife in Big Bend National Park?
Big Bend National Park is located in the Chihuahuan Desert of West Texas and is home to a diverse array of wildlife species. The park's most notable mammals include the black bear, mountain lion, javelina, coyote, and gray fox. There are also numerous species of reptiles and amphibians, including the western diamondback rattlesnake and the Texas horned lizard. The park is a prime destination for birdwatchers, with over 450 species of birds documented within the park's boundaries. Additionally, the Rio Grande River provides habitat for a variety of aquatic species, including several species of fish and turtles. Overall, Big Bend National Park's unique location and diverse habitats make it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and biologists alike.
When is the best time to go on this trip?
The climate is classified as sub-tropical desert and the most pleasant times of year are fall, winter, and early spring.
Who is this trip perfect for?
This adventure is perfect for anyone who enjoys an active vacation focused on hiking in stunning landscapes, geology buffs, photography enthusiasts, and those who love history and the Old West!
What is the minimum age for this trip?
The standard minimum age for this trip is 18, but check out our private trip options for families and groups with younger guests.
Are there any group savings?
Yes, we offer two ways to enjoy group savings on many adventures in North America, including this one. Either bring a group of 10 and receive 10% off per person or opt for an eleventh person to go for free! Call our expert Trip Consultants on 800-974-0300 to discuss group savings options.