By Ed Robinson
Located on the Rio Grande in southwest Texas lies more than 1 million acres known as the Big Bend National Park. Within the park, there are outdoor activities suitable for people of all ages and difficulty levels. The park is open year-round, and every season brings its own character to the activities available within the area.
Hiking
Hiking trials are abundant throughout Big Bend National Park. There are eight easy walking, short trails, all equaling 2 miles or less round trip. These trails, all of which provide their own unique experience, have interpretive signs along the way or are self-guided with the aid of a brochure.
There are six developed trails ranging in level of difficulty from easy to moderate as well as four strenuous hikes made for experienced hikers only.
If you choose to camp out while hiking on any of the trails, you are required to obtain a permit.
Camping
There are three campgrounds located on the grounds of the Big Bend National Park. The Rio Grande Village is located on the east side of the park. It is the only one of the three parks that can accommodate RVs. The Basin Campground is rugged and not suitable for RVs or trailers more than 20 feet long . The Cottonwood Campground is located on the west side of the park along the banks of the Rio Grande. It does not have a dump station.
Camping sites along the trails do not have amenities.
River Running
There are three local outfitters that offer guided canoe or rafting trips on the Rio Grande. With five different canyons to choose from, professionally guided trips ensure safety and well being of visitors. However, for those who choose to navigate the river on their own, the outfitters are there to provide equipment rental and transportation.
Horse Riding
To make horseback riding available to all visitors to Big Bend National Park, there are local stables near the park that offer horses to ride as well as a place to stable the horses that are brought in by guests. A permit is required when bringing a horse into the park. Horses are not allowed on paved roads or in the picnic areas, but theyare welcome on all dirt and gravel roads.
Mountain Bikes
In recent years, mountain bicycling has become a popular way to navigate through Big Bend National Park. Although bikers are not allowed on the hiking trails or off of the marked roads, there are miles of unused back roads that accommodate mountain bikes. Desert Sports offers bike rentals, accessories and guided tours.
Jeep Tours
While at the Big Bend National Park, take a half-day or full-day tour in a Jeep. Experienced guides will take you on restricted back roads while educating you on the park's history, geology and wildlife.
About the Author:
Ed Robinson was born and raised in Arkansas. Following graduation from Arkansas Tech University, he has been employed with FedEx Freight for over 10 years. He enjoys researching a variety of topics varying from home improvement to health and fitness. Freelance writing provides him with an outlet to share his knowledge and expertise in such fields.
