Texas Hiking Big Bend National Park & Beyond Lodge Based Tour
Explore Remote Big Bend & the Iconic Texas Mountain Trail
- Available: February, March, April, September, October, November, December
- Activity: Level 4
- Accommodations: Comfortable Hotels
Highlights
- Hike the South Rim Trail, the Window Trail, Santa Elena Canyon, and other iconic Big Bend Trails
- Stargaze in the Big Bend International Dark Sky Reserve, the world's largest Dark Sky Place
- Descend from the "sky island" of the Chisos Mountains down to the Chihuahuan Desert floor
Itinerary
Hike Fort Davis National Historic Site and explore Alpine, Texas
Day 1
Our adventure begins in the multi-cultural border city of El Paso. Following introductions, we begin the three-hour journey to our first hike at the Fort Davis National Historic Site. The park is one of the finest examples of a frontier military post in the American Southwest with trails that offer sweeping panoramic views of the Fort and nearby Davis Mountains. During our visit we'll learn how the fort served as a key military encampment during western expansion and hear stories about legendary residents such as the Buffalo Soldiers. We then continue to Alpine, the Gateway to the Big Bend. There is time for a stroll along Alpine's Mural Mile, a brisk hike up Hancock Hill, or to relax at our lodgings, before we gather for dinner. Lunch and dinner included.Accommodation: Holland Hotel
Activity: 3-4.5 miles hiking with 320' elevation gain and loss
Transportation: 3.5 hours private van transfer
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Hike in Big Bend National Park and experience the Terlingua Ghost Town
Day 2
We set out for Big Bend National Park and our ?rst hike at Persimmon Gap Draw. This often-overlooked treasure features outstanding views of the oldest exposed geology in the park. We visit the park's Fossil Bone Exhibit, which celebrates 120 million years of paleontological history, and the Panther Junction Visitor Center. Then traveling the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, our afternoon hike on Burro Mesa is a Chihuahuan Desert classic through a series of narrow gorges leading to a dramatic pour-off. Afterwards we head for Terlingua Ghost Town where the day ends at our accommodation in a restored mansion, once the stately home of the local mining magnate - our home for the next four nights. Dinner tonight is at the famed Starlight Theatre. All meals included.Accommodation: Big Bend Holiday Hotel
Activity: 5.8 miles hiking with 645' elevation gain and loss
Transportation: 3 hours private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Discover the diversity and history of the South Rim Trail
Day 3
Today we discover the most famous hike in all of Texas: the South Rim Trail. The biological diversity and geologic history add to the grandeur of the Chisos—a true "sky island" surrounded by an 'ocean' of Chihuahuan Desert. This is the only mountain range in the U.S. which is fully contained within the boundaries of a national park. Throughout the day we are rewarded with countless dramatic viewpoints, including those from the South Rim which spans miles into the distant Sierra del Carmen Mountains of Mexico and thousands of feet below to the Chihuahuan Desert ?oor. Returning to Terlingua, we dine and then relax at the Perry Mansion. As part of the Big Bend International Dark Sky Reserve, the world's largest IDA-certified Dark Sky Place, Terlingua is also an ideal spot for stargazing afterwards. All meals included.Accommodation: Big Bend Holiday Hotel
Activity: 12 miles hiking with 2,000 elevation gain and loss
Transportation: 2 hours private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Mountains, desert and river ecosystems of Big Bend
Day 4
Today we experience a "triple treat" and explore Big Bend's mountains, desert and river ecosystems - all in one day. We begin hiking on the Window Trail, which descends through a canyon sandwiched between majestic mountain peaks. Photo opportunities abound as we make our way out of the Chisos Basin and onto the desert floor via the picturesque Oak Springs Trail. Utilizing a trail not found on maps, we picnic under the shady trees of a desert oasis. Next, we continue down the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive to Santa Elena Canyon. A short hike showcases sheer limestone walls that tower 1500' above both sides of the Rio Grande. Back in Terlingua, we dine at another favorite locale. All meals included.Accommodation: Big Bend Holiday Hotel
Activity: 9 miles hiking with 740' elevation gain and loss
Transportation: 3 hours private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike the Mesa de Anguila and Big Bend Ranch State Park
Day 5
The Mesa de Anguila Trail is a hidden gem seldom explored by visitors to Big Bend National Park. The mesa sits high atop Santa Elena Canyon and marks the western border of the park. Our hike provides fantastic views of the bends of the Rio Grande, a brilliant example of how the park got its name. We visit the Barton Warnock Center to learn more about the region's incredible natural history, and then drive along the Camino del Rio. The road twists and winds with the Rio Grande, crossing arroyos, climbing mountains, and hugging canyon walls. Reaching Big Bend Ranch State Park, we discover the beauty and diversity of this massive 311,000 acre park. Returning to Terlingua, there is free time to explore the Ghost Town before we gather for a farewell dinner at the iconic Starlight Theatre. All meals included.Accommodation: Big Bend Holiday Hotel
Activity: 6 miles hiking with 900' elevation gain and loss
Transportation: 1.5 hours private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Explore ancient rock art at Indian Head and modern art in Marfa before returning to El Paso
Day 6
This morning we begin our return journey to El Paso, but not before we explore another secret treasure of Big Bend National Park on our hike at Indian Head Mountain. Marvel at ancient petroglyphs, pictographs, and other remnants of the Big Bend's early inhabitants, hidden amongst the mountain's striking volcanic formations. Then we travel the Texas Mountain Trail back through Alpine to Marfa for a scrumptious lunch at a favorite eatery. Afterwards, discover the iconic cultural phenomena that is Marfa itself - where West Texas ranching life and modern art collide - on a walking tour at the world famous Chinati Foundation. There you can witness the minimalist art of Donald Judd and other well-known international artists. Following, we transfer to El Paso with a planned arrival time of 5:30pm. Breakfast and lunch included.Activity: 3 miles hiking; 1.5 miles walking
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Why Travel With Us?
- MT Sobek has been exploring US National Parks for more than 50 years, placing a strong emphasis on responsible travel practices that 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.
- 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.
Dates & Prices
- 2025
- Go Custom
- Inclusions
2025
Scheduled Dates
Price is per person, double occupancy in USD.
The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates you’ll have and once you book, your price is guaranteed.
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Go Custom
Create Your Very Own Adventure
Dreaming of an adventure designed exclusively for you? With insider access and decades of experience, our travel experts create custom tailored adventures that are perfect for families, couples, and large groups. MT Sobek's custom adventures are designed to our exacting standards and led by our award-winning adventure guides.
When to start planning? Earlier is always better when designing a custom trip. More time allows for better availability of preferred accommodations, guides and your desired activities. Ideally, start the conversation with us at least 6 months before you want to travel. If you are looking for a custom trip that departs within three months, chances are greatly diminished in securing requested accommodations and the best guides.
*Custom trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit once an itinerary is agreed upon.
Start PlanningInclusions
Price Includes
- Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
- All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
- All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
- Snacks and water between meals
- Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
- Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
- Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
- Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
- All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
- Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
- Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
- Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
- Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
- Baggage transfers and porterage
Price Does Not Include
- International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
- Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
- Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
- Travel Protection Program
- Personal expenses
Need help picking your next adventure? Call us to answer your questions.
Your Guides
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.
Local Tour Guide .
We work with only the most experienced and knowledgeable local guides on our trips. You will be in excellent hands with a fully licensed and accredited local guide who will share their expertise in everything from history and architecture, to culture and traditions, the best local cuisine, activities and crafts, or even shopping. Local guides live, breathe, and love their trips because as locals they are an integral part of their communities. Their connections run deep and pride in their piece of the world is contagious.
Activity Level
This trip is rated activity level 4. You should be capable of hiking with a daypack up to 12 miles with elevation gains/losses of up to 2,100'. Trails are composed of packed dirt, sand, large and/or loose rocks, with some steep sections and exposed overlooks. Trip members should have some previous hiking experience and be in good physical condition. You should be capable of hiking up to 8 hours a day for 5 consecutive days.
Learn more about activity levels here.
Activity Snapshot
Day 1
3-4.5 miles hiking with 320' elevation gain and loss
Day 2
5.8 miles hiking with 645' elevation gain and loss
Day 3
12 miles hiking with 2,000 elevation gain and loss
Day 4
9 miles hiking with 740' elevation gain and loss
Day 5
6 miles hiking with 900' elevation gain and loss
Day 6
3 miles hiking; 1.5 miles walking
*Mileage and elevation change information is approximate and may vary slightly depending on trail conditions, weather, and route adjustments, and the guide’s discretion.
Accommodations
Modern and relaxed three-star properties in five-star settings.
Weather
Come prepared for a variety of conditions with lows below freezing and highs into the 80s.
FAQs
How should I train for my Texas National Park adventure?
Is there wildlife in Big Bend National Park?
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Guest Reviews
"MT Sobek took care of everything for our extended family vacation. Not a hiccup in the planning, the itinerary, the lodging or the guide. Everything in life should be so easy."
Kathy J.
MT Sobek Guest
I would highly recommend Mt Sobek for an amazing travel adventure. It was truly worth the money. Every detail was taken care of! It made for a stress free trip and one where you can truly enjoy the beauty and culture around you.
Kristin W.
MT Sobek Guest