Let’s just say it – 1 day is not enough in Big Bend National Park. However, I understand that sometimes you are on time crunch. So if you just have one day, here is what I would recommend. Aldo, be sure to check out the Big Bend Main Page and my Top 5 Best Hikes in Big Bend for more ideas on How to Spend 1 Day in Big Bend!
*Last updated 10/28/2023
1. Depart Terlingua (8:00)
Terlingua is the closest town to Big Bend National Park, so I’m going to plan that you are spending the night before and after here. If you plan to camp, then you could stay in the park. Consider Chisos Basin Campground.
2. Santa Elena Canyon (9:30)
Santa Elena Canyon is perhaps the most recognizable sight in Big Bend! The Santa Elena Canyon Trail is about 1.3 miles and plan for about an hour or so to do the hike and dip your toes into the Rio Grande river.
Be aware that during high water levels of the Rio Grande, the river can back up and block the beginning of the trail. It is not permitted by the park, but some people hike up the creek to make their own trail. However, the views of the canyon from the entrance are worth it even if you don’t do the trail.
2. Castalon Visitor Center (11:00)
Make sure to stop at the Castalon Visitor Center so you can see the historic Castalon area. Additionally, the old La Harmonia Store is here. Unfortunately, it was badly damaged during a fire in 2019.
3. Panther Junction Visitor Center (12:00)
Panther Junction Visitor Center is the largest visitor center in Big Bend National Park. Get your booked and chat with a ranger before heading on to the Chisos mountains.
4. Chisos Basin Visitor Center (12:45)
On your way to the Chisos Basin visitor center, you will drive by the Lost Mine Trail parking lot. If there is a parking space, take it! If the lot is full, head on up to the Chisos Basin visitor center and do the short Window View trail before trying again at Lost Mine parking lot.
5. Lost Mine Trail (1:00)
Lost Mine Trail is next most popular hike after Santa Elena Canyon trail. However, the parking lot is much smaller so it fills up quickly. Also, it is unlikely you will find a spot from 7am-noon.
Lost Mine Trail is almost 5 miles, but the first half is mostly uphill. Additionally, it is has some great views and is a shorter and more accessible hike than Emory Peak.
6. Return to Terlingua (6:00)
That is a pretty good day and you’ll have about an hour drive back to Terlingua. However, that should give you a taste of Big Bend National Park for your next visit!
*Alternate options
If you are not up for a 5 mile hike, you could substitute Lost Mine Trail with a stop to Boquillas del Carmen, Mexico. You will need a passport or passport card and check the border crossing schedule as they are only open certain days. There is a different schedule for summer and winter. You take a row boat over and from there can walk or ride a burrow into to town.
You could also squeeze in nearby Hot Springs trail. It is only about a quarter mile walk to the hot springs. Wear a bathing suit and soak up the hot water.
