Looking for an awe-inspiring landscape to escape to this summer? Big Bend National Park is a gorgeous getaway for you and your family. From the views to the hiking trails, there is a little something for everyone. Let’s break down the top seven reasons to visit Big Bend National Park this summer. Simply put, you should visit Big Bend because:

1. Breathtaking views
2. Wildlife all around you
3. You love canoeing
4. A great way to social distance
5. Hiking
6. History
7. Road Trips

Breathtaking Views

One of the most important reasons to visit Big Bend National Park is the absolutely breathtaking views you’re going to see. Steep mountains and cliffs, rocky terrain, the Rio Grande, and vistas that span as far as the eye can see. At first, Big Bend National Park seems somewhat like a desert, but the further you get into the actual park the more that changes. You’ll be introduced to the perennial glory of southwest Texas. The Chisos Mountains and Ross Maxwell scenic drive are more than enough to get those neurons firing. Take in the gorgeous sunrises and surround yourself with nature that can help relieve stress and benefit your mental health.

Honestly, you don’t need more reasons to visit Big Bend National Park as the views alone can make the trip worthwhile. Try camping under the stars for the best views in the house, as according to onlyinyourstate you can see over 2,000 stars in the huge sky. Big Bend National Park is one of the best places in the WORLD for stargazing! 

Wildlife

Another reason to visit Big Bend National Park is that the wildlife is unique. You’ll be surrounded by bats, bears, over 450 species of birds, 75 species of mammals, 56 species of reptiles, and much more, according to the park website. There are also multiple species of fish and amphibious wildlife to observe from the Rio Grande. As you discover more of the park, you’ll start to discover all the animals that call this beautiful land home. There are large swaths of land that are specifically just desert, which gives Big Bend National Park unique animals to see and be surrounded by. You won’t be able to find these animals in other national parks. If you are worried about animals coming into your tent while sleeping, consider taking an RV instead of camping. If you want to spend the money, try a special Airbnb that is located within Big Bend National Park!

You love canoeing

Because Big Bend National Park also houses the Rio Grande, it’s the perfect opportunity to go canoeing. Canoeing can be both relaxing and challenging as you paddle your way down the river. You can do this activity alone or with a guide to help you. You’ll see just how vast and open the nature of Big Bend National Park is. It’ll give you a sense of wonder for how incredibly large nature is and how small we are compared to it. Also, it’s a great way to cool down as the hot sun beats down on you. It’s one of the many reasons to visit Big Bend, National Park.

A great way to social distance

As mentioned above, Big Bend National Park is vast and one of the most remote places in the western hemisphere. Which means it’s perfect for social distancing and getting away from noisy crowds. Whether you want to escape the 9 to 5 or plan a vacation that’ll keep you safe from Coronavirus, Big Bend National Park is one of the best places to social distance from others while not sacrificing having a good time. 

Unlike other vacations, you’ll need to prepare for surviving and living out in the rough terrain. Carefully choose gear that will make your stay more comfortable and help you have a good time in Big Bend National Park. Even selecting the best cooler for your trip is very important.

Hiking

Big Bend National Park offers some of the best trails to hike, whether by a guide or by yourself. Trails range wildly and there are many different styles of terrain to cover. Whether you’re looking to track across the desert or scale parts of a mountain, Big Bend National Park has just about all of those options. Big Bend National Park also offers trails from beginner levels to high-intensity trails like the Outer Mountain Loop that will test any experienced hiker. If you are an active person and are looking for reasons to visit Big Bend National Park, then hiking should be at the top of your list. Do your research, though. Look up the best hiking trails and see which trails will fit your level of hiking. 

History

There is a ton of history wrapped up in Big Bend National Park, from ghost towns tucked away and long-forgotten, to the vast Rio Grande that has been at the center of many Texas conflicts. To put it into perspective, the park is larger than the entire state of Rhode Island. With that size, you’re bound to discover something new about Texas and its wilderness you never knew before. 

Not only that, but the park has had a lasting impact on the wellbeing of the country. Historical programs like the CCC help fight poverty and provide on-the-job training for many of America’s workers. There is also the historic site of Fort Davis, which was once part of the western frontiers’ fight against Indians. You will step in the rooms that date back half a century ago. It’s interesting bits of history like that, which you will discover when you visit Big Bend National Park. 

Road Trips

Even if you don’t plan on actually staying, one best of the reasons to visit Big Bend National Park Is the scenic drive you can take on a road trip. You don’t even have to leave your car and yet still get to witness all the beautiful scenery of Big Bend. Not to mention, you can also explore towns like Alpine and Marfa on your road trip. Consider visiting Big Bend National Park if you plan on taking a Texas road trip.

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