Planning Your Summer Trip to Big Bend: Tips & Tricks

Introduction: Summer Made Simple
Summer in Big Bend is an invitation to experience the park in its most serene and stunning form. Fewer visitors mean quiet trails, peaceful drives, and more immersive moments, from dawn hikes to desert sunsets and star-filled nights. This guide helps you plan your summer trip efficiently, so you can enjoy every moment.

1. Book Smart & Early

Reservations in Big Bend are recommended, even in the summer. Rooms fill quickly, so the sooner you book, the better your options. Even the campsites inside the park can sell out far in advance so make your plans early regardless of the time of year.

2. Time Your Activities with the Light

Plan early morning and evening activities. These times offer the best light for hiking and, scenic views, photography and the most comfortable conditions for exploration.
Many recommended hikes including our “Top 5 Summer Hikes” are best tackled at sunrise or sunset to maximize views and minimize crowds.

3. Mix Up Your Days

Combine outdoor adventure with midday relaxation! Hike early in the morning, then drive scenic routes like FM 170 or Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, and then retreat to the Summit for a peaceful break. As soon as the sun sets enjoy the Milky Way in it's full summer glory.

4. Stay Hydrated & Pack Prepared

Water is essential here so bring at least one gallon per person per day. Dress in layers, wear a hat, and carry snacks, electrolytes, sunscreen, and a small first aid kit. Always bring a park map as cell service is limited or unavailable in many areas.

5. Know the Roads & Detours

Paved routes like Persimmon Gap to Panther Junction, Panther Junction to Rio Grande Village, Maverick Entrance to Panther Junction, and the 30-mile Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive are all reliable and scenic.
FM 170 (River Road) is a summer favorite. It winds along the Rio Grande through Big Bend Ranch State Park, offering dramatic canyon views and unique roadside stops.

6. Add Nearby Detours

Lajitas: Just outside the park, offering local eats, small shops, and the Barton Warnock Visitor Center.
Terlingua Ghost Town & Presidio: Discover art, culture, and quirky history.
Consider short trails like Closed Canyon or the Hoodoos in the state park for variety and easy access.

7. Don’t Forget the Night

Big Bend’s dark skies are among the best in the world. The Milky Way is visible shortly after sunset during summer.
Stargazing at Summit Big Bend or nearby overlooks is easy and unforgettable. You don’t need to stay up late to enjoy it!

8. Consider Local Gear & Guides

Use our Visitor Guide to research local guides for hikes, off-road tours, and stargazing experiences. Outfitters in the area offer vehicle rentals, river trips, and expert-led adventures to round out your visit!

Conclusion: The Season Is Yours

Stick to early starts and quiet evenings. Pack smart, mix adventure with rest, and let Big Bend unfold at its own pace. Whether this is your first visit or your fifth, summer is when the park feels most personal. Plan your trip, and make this one your own.

Book your stay at Summit Big Bend and discover the magic of Big Bend