4 Days in Big Bend w/Newbies - What to Do?

[cinesnail]

Hi there,

This forum is such a great wealth of advice - I am glad to have stumbled upon it. I will be in BB the week after Christmas and I am bringing two friends who are brand new to the park.

I have a few ideas on what I'd like us to do, but wanted to see if you had any "must-see" recommendations. Believe it or not, after many trips, my must-see list is too long and I'm having a hard time consolidating.

I myself am an accomplished hiker, trail runner, etc. and could handle most of what the park has to offer. My friends are a couple in their mid-20s in good shape. One of them has hiked/camped a lot in the past but it's been a while. The other is a total newbie, but eager.

My question is, what should I be sure to show them? I definitely want to do Window Trail, but am open to anybody's suggestions. This is my first time in the park the week after Christmas and I hear it's busy (we already have reservations - 2 days at Chisos and the plan is 2 days zone camping).

Any ideas? We are actually doing a whole week-long trip, but the first couple of days will be in Davis Mountains State Park visiting McDonald Observatory.

Thanks,

Kathryn

[Casa Grande]

Hm, this is a big question and one that will elicit more responses with more details, such as, are you bringing a high clearance vehicle?

My first recommendation and no brainer site to see is the Lost Mine Trail. I could go on, but I'm afraid to see anything further without knowing more details about what you have already planned and what you are willing to do.  It's just that there are so many thins that require more experience and/or equipment.

[Raoul Duke]

I agree with CG's statement that it really depends on what your friends' abilities are.  That being said, if I were bringing a person to BBNP who had never been there, I would be sure to hit these (in no particular order):

1. Santa Elena Canyon trail
2. Boquillas Canyon Trail
3. Lost Mine Trail
4. Ernst Tinaja
5. Grapevine Hills/Balanced Rock
6. A soak in the Hot Springs
7. River Road East/Mariscal Mine (provided you have a 4X4 vehicle)

Of course, there are loads of other features in the Park and surrounding areas, but these are kind of the general popular features that almost anyone can enjoy.

[jim2]

pine canyon will blow most people away!