Itinerary · 2 days · Texas
2 Days in Big Bend National Park: The Perfect Itinerary
Two days is enough to see the best of Big Bend National Park without rushing. Here is the day-by-day plan, built around the park's highlights.
Best time to go: Oct–Apr. Closest major airport: Midland (MAF), about 3.5 hours; El Paso (ELP), about 4.5 hours.
Day 1: The icons
- Morning: Walk into Santa Elena Canyon. Start early to beat the crowds.
- Afternoon: Hike the Lost Mine Trail in the Chisos.
- Evening: Soak in the riverside hot springs.
Day 2: Go deeper
- Morning: Drive the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive.
- Afternoon: Stargaze anywhere in the park.
The park is huge and remote. Gas up in Marathon, Alpine or Terlingua, and plan on at least three days.
When to go
The best time to visit Big Bend National Park is October–April.
Questions
How many days do you need in Big Bend National Park?
Two full days covers the highlights: walk into santa elena canyon and hike the lost mine trail in the chisos on day one, then drive the ross maxwell scenic drive on day two. Add a third day if you want a long backcountry hike or a slow morning.
When is the best time for this Big Bend itinerary?
Go in Oct–Apr, when the park is rated at its best. October offers the best balance of good conditions and smaller crowds.
Can you do Big Bend in one day?
You can see the highlights in one very full day by doing day one below and skipping day two, but you will miss drive the ross maxwell scenic drive. Two days is the sweet spot.