The Big Bend National Park defies all the odds of nature, making it one of the preferred travel destinations in the US. The park is located in one of the harsh, dry and dangerous areas, but still presents travelers with some beautiful scenery and amusements. Big Bend was given the name el despoblado by the early Spanish explorers, meaning “the uninhabited land”.

The Chisos Mountains found in the park presents visitors with dead silence of nature which makes everything “stop”, including time. The Rio Grande River runs through the park, forming a u-shaped bend, from which the name of the park is derived. A large portion of Big Bend is found in the Chihuahuan Desert. However, the park owes its greenery to the Rio Grande Flood plains. The park is home to over 450 different species of birds. Other than leisure travelers, the park also attracts geologists who are usually interested in the different rocks and fossils found in the canyons of the desert.

The greenest part of the Big Bend National Park is found in the Rio Grande Plains. The plains are fed by waters from the Grande River which literally flows through the entire mountains in the park. However, other than providing waters for the plains, the river also serves many other purposes and it seams to provide something for everyone. Rafters and Canoeists have access to the river although they have to acquire the necessary permits first. Swimming in the river is allowed but at the same time discouraged due to river’s currents that are very fast and the probability of flash floods. Commercial float trips are offered by the outfitters found close to the park. Catfish is a delicacy sought after by the fishermen. For hikers, the rivers trail leaves behind great canyons for a challenge. They include the Boquillas, the Mariscal and the Hot Spring canyons. Travelers who do not wish to sail in the river’s waters can still trail it by driving along the El Camino Del Rio, which is a paved route along the river bank. However the route also comes with its dangers which include sharp curves, steep terrains and stray livestock.

The Chihuahuan Desert forms part of the Big Bend. It is a fairly green desert which blossoms after the summer storms. It is home to many animals, most of which are nocturnal, but some can be seen during the day, and they include skunks, jackrabbits, coyotes and javelinas (commonly known as the wild pig). Summer temperatures here average at 27 ºC but will occasionally sore as high as 42 ºC. However, this is always seen as a reprieve to the snow that engulfs the rest of the country during this season, making it the right time to visit Big Bend.

The Chisos Mountains are the center of recreational activity in the park due to their cool nature. They also offer a good challenge to the mountain climbers. The Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive gives everyone a change to get to the mountain peaks. Chisos Mountain Lodge is the only restaurant found in the park. However, it is usually booked to capacity most of the time, hence early booking is advisable.