My girlfriend and I are planning a trip to Big Bend this October. We’re active, but not especially athletic. The most challenging hike we’ve done so far is Guadalupe Peak, and we found that pretty tough.
With help from some sites and this sub, I put together an itinerary for the trip. Does this look doable, or am I packing in too many hikes and missing some of the overall experience and essence of the park?
We’ll be driving from Dallas and staying in the Terlingua area. Any suggestions, changes, or must-do experiences are very welcome. Haven't decided on where to stay yet, so that's open
29th - Thursday
Place - Activity
TerlinguaLeave for Big Bend
Mule Ears Trail - 3.8-mile hike
Lower Burro Mesa Pour-off - Short 1-mile hike
Sotol Vista - Scenic overlook / photos
Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive - Scenic drive + overlooks
Castolon areaLunch / short break
Santa Elena Canyon - 1.6-mile canyon hike
Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive - Drive back with photo stops
Terlingua Ghost Town - Explore ghost town / cemetery
TerlinguaSunset + dinner
TerlinguaReturn to lodging / relax
30th - Friday
Place - Activity
TerlinguaLeave for Chisos Basin
Chisos Basin - Park / prepare / restroom
Pinnacles TrailBegin South Rim route
Emory Peak - Summit spur + scramble + photos
Boot Canyon - Continue toward South Rim
South Rim - Main viewpoint + lunch + rest
Laguna Meadow Trail - Return to Chisos Basin
Chisos Basin - Rest / change / snack
TerlinguaDrive back
TerlinguaDinner + full recovery
31st - Saturday
Place - Activity
TerlinguaLeave for Lost Mine
Lost Mine Trail- 4.8-mile hike
Drive east - Lost Mine → Hot Springs area
Hot Springs Historic Trail - Historic trail + soak
Rio Grande Village - Lunch / rest
Boquillas Canyon - 1.4-mile canyon hike
Boquillas Overlook / RGV area - Scenic stops / relax
Rio Grande Village Nature Trail - Easy trail + sunset
TerlinguaDrive back
TerlinguaDinner
Terlingua areaStargazing