With over 100 miles of paved roads, 150 miles of dirt roads, and about 200 miles of hiking trails the park offers nearly limitless opportunities for scenic driving, hiking, camping, backpacking, mountain biking, horseback riding, bird watching, wildlife observation, and stargazing. Additionally, the Rio Grande borders the park for 118 miles providing options for half-day floats to extended excursion by raft, canoe, or kayak.
The Hot Spring Historic District preserves a rich history of human occupation from thousands of years ago to the not-so-distant past. Visitors can study rock art left behind on the limestone cliffs, picture farms of corn, squash, and beans along the river's floodplain, or imagine what it would have been like to meet at the Hot Springs Post Office in the early 1900s to collect your mail each Monday.
If you have the time and a spirit of adventure, you may want to consider a river trip. Seeing the park's canyons from the middle of the Rio Grande can be an incredible experience. Depending upon the current river levels, there are many possibilities including half-day floats or multi-day excursions. Come explore the canyons of Big Bend National Park from within the Rio Grande river.
The Starlight Theatre is a must-visit destination in Terlingua Ghost Town, offering a unique blend of history, live entertainment, and delicious food in the heart of the West Texas desert. Once an old movie house, this iconic venue has been transformed into a lively restaurant and bar, where visitors can enjoy hearty Texan cuisine, refreshing drinks, and live music under the glow of the star-filled sky. The rustic yet welcoming atmosphere captures the rugged charm of Terlingua, making it the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring Big Bend. Whether you're savoring their famous chili, listening to local musicians, or simply soaking in the vibrant energy of the ghost town, the Starlight Theatre delivers an unforgettable experience.
The Terlingua Chili Cook-Off is an iconic West Texas event that brings chili lovers, adventurers, and fun-seekers together for a one-of-a-kind experience in the rugged desert landscape. Held annually in Terlingua Ghost Town, this legendary competition is more than just a cooking contest—it's a vibrant festival filled with live music, dancing, and the best chili you’ll ever taste. What started as a friendly rivalry in 1967 has grown into a world-famous celebration of bold flavors and lively camaraderie, drawing thousands of visitors each year. Whether you're competing, tasting, or just soaking in the electric atmosphere, the Terlingua Chili Cook-Off is a must-visit event that perfectly captures the spirit of the Texas frontier. Drop by to try some of the best chili Texas has to offer