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There’s no better way to celebrate birthdays than with an adventure, and this year, we kicked off the festivities with a four-day road trip to Big Bend National Park. Our tradition is to make every birthday memorable, and this time, we started our journey on Thursday morning with a delicious lunch in Boerne, Texas, complete with our favorite coffee and, of course, a stop at the iconic The Dienger Trading Co. Did you know Texas has over 675,000 miles of roads, all leading to charming destinations like Boerne?
As we continued driving through the Central Texas landscape, it began shifting into rocky formations where we spotted gazelles, hundreds of deer, and even a few mountain goats along the way.
After a nine-hour drive, we finally arrived in Terlingua, where we met up with our dear friends at Taqueria El Milagro. We indulged in mouthwatering tacos, flavorful elote, and fresh nopales, savoring the authentic flavors of the region. It was a long day of driving, but our excitement for the adventure ahead kept our energy high. As we planned for the next day's challenge, hiking Emory Peak, the highest summit in the Chisos Mountains, we took a moment to soak in the crisp desert air and the dazzling night sky before parting ways to rest.
Our Friday morning started with a 7:30 AM alarm, and by 8:00 AM, we arrived at Espresso Y Poco Mas, where we fueled up on house coffee, a blueberry muffin, eggs, potatoes, and fresh salsa roja. With breakfast in hand, we were ready for our first big challenge of the trip: hiking Emory Peak.
No Big Bend adventure is complete without snapping a picture at the park’s entrance sign, because if you don’t, did the trip even happen? This time, we tackled the famous and strenuous 10.5-mile Emory Peak hike. The climb was tough, but reaching the summit and soaking in the breathtaking 360-degree view of the entire park made every step worthwhile.
By the end of our trek, we had logged an impressive 30,394 steps. Naturally, we rewarded ourselves with a well-earned meal at Long Draw Pizza to refuel after the day’s exertion. Exhausted but proud, we called it an early night in anticipation of the next adventure.
While sunsets in Big Bend are undeniably breathtaking, there is something truly magical about witnessing the sunrise. Waking up early to watch the first rays of light spill over the rugged landscape is an experience I highly recommend. The crisp morning air, the silence of nature awakening, and the warmth of a freshly brewed cup of tea create a moment of pure serenity. If you're looking to start your day with a sense of peace, don't miss the opportunity to greet the rising sun in this incredible park.
After the intense hike, we spent the next day unwinding at the Hot Springs. Even without swimsuits, we couldn’t resist wading into the warm, 105-degree waters. There was something magical about sharing this experience with fellow travelers, as tiny minnows swam around our feet and the Texas-Mexico border stretched before us.
Following our soak, we set out on a short hike toward Ernst Ridge, a stunning landscape of rock formations and open flats. Just when we thought the day couldn’t get any better, we witnessed a breathtaking sight, a group of painted burros from the Mexican side of the border trotted down for a drink. One even crossed over to graze nearby, adding an unforgettable, serene moment to our trip.
No visit to Big Bend is complete without dinner at the legendary Starlight Theater and Saloon. If you plan to dine here, arrive between 3:30 - 4:00 PM to secure a spot, the seating process operates on an honor system, and doors open at 5:00 PM. The wait was worth it. We indulged in some of the best charro beans and guacamole we’ve had in a long time. As the night settled, some of us gathered around the fire, while others ventured out to stargaze. Wildlife sightings included everything from field mice and foxes to an adorable javelina. Another early night meant we were well-rested for the long drive ahead.
For those who love astrophotography and stargazing as much as I do, don’t forget to pack your camera timer, a sturdy professional tripod, and a quality wide-angle lens. Researching the moon phase ahead of time is crucial, while Big Bend offers incredible opportunities to capture the Milky Way, an unexpected bright moon can wash out your shots. But if that happens, well, it’s just another perfect excuse to come back and try again!
Sunday arrived too soon. We packed up our Airbnb and made a final coffee stop at V6 Coffee Bar in Marathon before heading home.
This journey was more than just a trip, it was an opportunity to push our limits, connect with nature, and make unforgettable memories with friends.
Are you looking for less strenuous Big Bend hikes? Here are a few tips from our October 2024 adventures:
Lost Mine Trail: A breathtaking but crowded hike. Arrive between 8:00 and 9:00 AM to secure parking and avoid extra walking.
The Window Trail: A strenuous but rewarding trek featuring slippery rock scaling at the end. Be prepared and take your time!
Pro Tips for Big Bend Hiking:
Bring plenty of water (CamelBak or bottled) to avoid dehydration.
Pack high-protein snacks like peanut butter sandwiches, nuts, and fruit.
Carry a venom kit in case of rattlesnake and/or tarantula encounters.
If you’ve never been to Big Bend National Park, now’s the time to plan a trip, whether with a significant other or a group of friends. Just remember: if you’re not an experienced hiker, don’t go alone. With its vast wilderness and unpredictable conditions, this park demands preparation and respect.
Stay safe, explore boldly, and maybe we’ll see you on the trail!
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