Big Bend’s Chisos Mountain Lodge to Close for Renovation
Big Bend National Park’s Chisos Basin area will undergo significant changes beginning in early 2025 as part of a $22 million project to demolish and rebuild the park’s Chisos Mountain Lodge. The renovation, funded by the Great American Outdoors Act, will include tearing down the lodge's main building, along with a visitor center and small retail store, which will all be incorporated into a new facility.
As work begins, the Chisos Basin area will be closed to visitor entry. This includes the Basin Road, lodging units, Basin Campground, restaurant, NPS visitor center, camper store, and trails within the Basin area. This work will ONLY affect the Chisos Basin area of Big Bend National Park. As major components are completed, park managers will assess which areas can be safely reopened to regular public access.
While the closure of these facilities will affect access to the Chisos Basin section, local officials emphasize that Big Bend National Park remains open to the public. According to Brewster County Judge Greg Henington, the park is still ready to welcome visitors, and tourism efforts will continue despite the construction.
“The park is open,” Henington reassured, highlighting that visitors can still enjoy many of the park’s attractions.
During the closure, The Summit at Big Bend stands ready to serve travelers as the largest, best-reviewed outdoor hotel in the region. Our 1,000+ acre property is an adventurers' paradise that doesn't sacrifice the comforts of a typical hotel - ensuring a fun and comfortable stay with strong Wi-Fi, clean bathrooms, powerful climate control, and more! Accommodations in the region will be limited, so we encourage our future guests to Book Now!
We are located just minutes from both Big Bend National Park, Big Bend Bend Ranch State Park, and from local attractions such as the Terlingua Ghost Town. Terlingua has numerous restaurants, galleries, and outfitters such as river tours, camping tours, and more!
Big Bend is Named BIG for a reason
During the Chisos Basin closure, much of the Park will remain open - not to mention the State Park and the Terlingua area as well as our on-site hiking trails! Don't forget, Big Bend is a treasure trove, larger than Yosemite, with hundreds of trails and viewpoints to explore! Here are a few of our personal favorites:
1. Santa Elena Canyon Trail
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: The trail leads along the Rio Grande and into the stunning Santa Elena Canyon, with towering 1,500-foot walls on either side. It's one of the park's most iconic spots.
2. Grapevine Hills Trail (Balanced Rock)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Highlights: This short trail takes you through a scenic desert landscape, culminating at a large balanced rock formation with great panoramic views.
3. Hot Springs Trail
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: This short trail takes you to the historic hot springs on the Rio Grande. You can relax in the 105°F waters while enjoying scenic river views. Continue this hike up the canyon East towards the Rio Grande Village Campground for amazing views!
4. Pine Canyon Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: A beautiful hike that begins in the desert and ascends into a canyon filled with lush vegetation. The trail culminates at a seasonal waterfall, offering dramatic views of the surrounding cliffs and canyons.
5. Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive
To learn more and see the latest directly from the Park Service follow this link:
Chisos Basin National Park Service
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