Why Summer May be the Best Time to Visit Big Bend

Introduction: Why we love summer out here!

While it's true that Big Bend National Park can get warm during the day, the park's vastness and diverse landscapes offer unique opportunities to enjoy its beauty comfortably. Early mornings, midday drives, and serene nights present the park in a different light—literally and figuratively.

Morning Bliss: Cool Temperatures and Fewer Crowds

Start your day with the tranquility of Big Bend's mornings. The temperatures are cooler, wildlife is more active, and the rising sun casts a golden hue over the desert landscape. We will dive into more hikes in detail in a future post, but here are some of our favs for summer:

• Santa Elena Canyon Trail: Experience the majestic canyon walls carved by the Rio Grande.

• Grapevine Hills Trail (Balanced Rock): A short hike leading to the iconic Balanced Rock formation.

• Hot Springs Historic Trail: A gentle walk to the historic Langford Hot Springs along the river.

• Ernst Ridge Trail: Offers panoramic views of the desert landscape.

• Pine Canyon Trail: A serene desert hike that transitions to a pine forest.

These trails provide breathtaking views without the crowds. The stillness of the morning offers a meditative experience, allowing visitors to connect deeply with nature. For more detailed information on these hikes and recommended outfitters, visit our Hiking in Big Bend page.

Midday Comfort: Scenic Drives and Cultural Exploration

As the sun climbs higher, hop in your car and explore the scenic drives. The Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive offers panoramic views of the desert, leading to historical sites like the Castolon Historic District. Further in the park, stop by the Fossil Discovery Exhibit to delve into the park's prehistoric past. This exhibit showcases over 130 million years of geologic history, featuring specimens from Big Bend's remarkable fossil record and vivid artwork illustrating the fascinating story of the park's ancient life.

Another must-see is FM170, known as the "River Road." This scenic drive winds alongside the Rio Grande, offering stunning views of the river and surrounding landscapes. It's considered one of the most beautiful roads in Texas.

Enjoy the day at The Summit

After your midday adventures, return to Summit Big Bend to relax and recharge. Our insulated, air-conditioned accommodations provide a cool place to retreat. Stay connected with our high-speed Wi-Fi, or simply unwind in comfort as you prepare for the evening's activities. Our glamping experience combines the thrill of the outdoors with the comforts of home, ensuring your summer stay is both adventurous and relaxing.

Nighttime Wonders: Stargazing Under the Darkest Skies

Big Bend National Park boasts some of the darkest skies in the continental U.S., making it a haven for stargazers. In 2012, the park was designated as an International Dark Sky Park by the International Dark-Sky Association, earning a Gold Tier status for its exceptional night sky quality. This designation involved measuring and mitigating excess lighting in the park, ensuring minimal light pollution. The Natural Sounds and Night Skies division of the National Park Service has determined that Big Bend has the darkest night skies of any national park in the lower 48 states.

Our neighbor, Big Bend Ranch State Park, is also an International Dark Sky Park. Together, these parks protect over 1,112,000 acres of dark skies, forming part of the Greater Big Bend International Dark Sky Reserve. Spanning over 15,000 square miles in Texas and Mexico, this reserve is the largest Dark Sky Certified area in the world.

Whether you're an amateur astronomer or simply someone who appreciates the night sky, the celestial displays here are unparalleled. From the comfort of Summit Big Bend, gaze upon thousands of stars, the Milky Way, and even meteor showers, all set against the backdrop of the Chihuahuan Desert.

Conclusion: Embrace the Summer Adventure

Summer in Big Bend National Park is about experiencing the park's unique offerings during this season. From peaceful morning hikes and informative midday drives to mesmerizing nights under the stars, there's a rhythm to summer here that's both invigorating and soothing. Book your stay at Summit Big Bend and discover the magic of Big Bend in the summer.