Have you ever just wanted to lay under a dark velvet sky filled with millions of glistening diamonds. If so I've got the place for you BIG BEND NATIONAL PARK. This is a park I hold dear to my heart. The landscape is mesmerizing from a forest oasis to a desert . With mountains that seem to grow out of nowhere as you approach. And a incredible wildlife as well.There are three different ecosystems in the park desert,river, and mountains. So you have a bit of a choose . We always stay in the Chisos Mountains it offers so much. This mountain range is the southernmost in the U.S. Also in the U.S. to be the only range that is fully in a national park.
The Chisos Basin is a must see stop when visiting the park. You don't have to hike far for a breathtaking view . The Window View Trail which is right by the camp store . It is a simple hike that is even wheelchair acceptable . Great for the whole family. If you're up for a little challenge and like stairs The Window Trail . I know it sounds the same but it is not , imagine seeing this big water pour off then actually being able to stand right in the middle of it. The WIndow Trail is a 5.6 mile round trip hike .It descends down through Oak Creek Canyon to the Window pour off .The hike starts of with a fairly good amount of stairs. Not my favorite part . But as you continue down the canyon giant walls of igneous rocks appear to slowly close in. There will be what seems to be like a little forest that will provide some shade for part of the way . At some point a bench under a tree will appear be sure to rest and take in the views . You're almost there. As you get closer to the Window be sure to watch out for the slike rocks . This is where the most danger is . In the end it is a well worth it hike. Also I would suggest it for a nice sunset view for an even more amazement.
Window
When you're ready to set up camp the Chisos Basin Campgrounds which is also conveniently right by the Window trail. It provides breathtaking view of the landscape as well as a pretty badass sunrise. Just close you eyes,take a deep breath and imaging sipping on a nice warm cup of coffee listing to the birds sing. Taking in a deep breath of the crisp morning air. This is where my little family camps every time. My husband will even wait for our spot as he says to be available. The canyons provided a nice cool breeze on those summer days. And at night a mesmerizing view of the night sky. When camping in this park not all places have shade so I strongly suggest having some type of cover just in case. Especially having a little one it is a must have. This spot is also a great spot to spot a bear or two.The environment can be a bit rough but as long as you are prepared there is nothing to worry about.
Another trail that is located right by the camp store is Emory Peak Trail.It is a 9.3 mile hike with a 2,415' ascent. This trail will give a 360 view of the park once you reach the top.During this hike you go through a lush forest which is a nice break from the sun.With this little oasis there are more chances to run into the wildlife like the deers and bears.However I do not suggest this trail for people that have a fear of heights. The last time me and my husband did this hike he ended up getting a bit of an extra view. We had ran into a couple where the wife was trying to encourage her husband up to the top with a bit of female encouragement. The man however still did not get to the top. I give her a A for effort. It is a bit of a climb at the end I was even a bit sceptical. The trail almost seemed like it just stopped out of nowhere . Right in front of us was a big rock . Me and my husband both looked at each other, " Do we climb?" The risk was worth the view.
Now if you want change a bit of a change of landscape check out Santa Elena Canyon. There are two ways to see it by a canoe down the rio. Which allows you to see way more of the breathtaking views .Like the 1,500 ft vertical cliffs of solid limestone.Or you can do a 1.5 mile hike and enjoy the lush riparian vegetation a bit more closely.I have not even begun to tell you what all this park has to offer . There are lots of exploration to be done. From finding the renents of an old homestead to being on top of a mountain . You can always find something to enjoy at Big Bend National Park .
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