Big Bend National Park is located in Texas, USA. A large park with over 800,000 acres, it includes mountain, desert and river environments. The park is one of the last outstanding wild areas of the United States.

Big Bend National Park is known to be good for the hiking and backpacking in the area and has trails ranging in difficulty for people of all abilities. Camping is also available for backpackers along the trail. Ranger-led activities include guided hikes, evening programs, talks and workshops on Big Bend’s natural and cultural history. Programs are offered free and change weekly. Personal Ranger Tours are available for families, groups or individuals. However, there is a charge of $35.00 per hour with a four-hour minimum. A variety of topics can be considered and advance reservations are required. (Phone: 432-477-1108).http://www.nps.gov/bibe/planyourvisit/index.htm

Wildflowers can be seen during most of the year depending on the rainfall levels. However, the best time to see the desert wildflowers is mid-February through mid-April. Wildlife is most active at Big Bend at night but you can see deer, fox and javelinas at dusk. The Window View Trail is recommended for wildlife viewing. Rio Grande Village is the place to go to see coyotes, javelinas and birds. The park has more then 20 tropical species of butterflies. Fishing is allowed in the Rio Grande with a free permit. Jug fishing is not permitted nor can you bring live bait in the park. You can purchase bait at the Rio Grande Village Store.

The following activities can be enjoyed at Big Bend National Park:

• Backpacking: A permit is required. You can hike trails in the Chisos Mountains, in the desert, and along the Rio Grande. 42 designated backpacking campsites in the High Chisos Mountains to the South Rim. All campsites are accessible only by foot. Carry all water as there is no reliable water source.

• Hiking: These easy to strenuous, and range from day hikes to backpacking trips. Window Trail is handicap assessable.

• Rafting: Since the river crosses the international border you will need travel documents when rafting. Trips vary from half day to a week.

• Bicycling: People riding a bike must share the road with cars and obey all traffic laws. Off-road is not permitted. Routes vary from easy to difficult. http://www.nps.gov/bibe/planyourvisit/biking.htm

• Stargazing: Due to the climate and the distance from towns, the stargazing is tremendous. Around 2,000 stars can be seen with the naked eye on a clear night.

• Birdwatching: Big Bend National Park is located on a migration route. Over 450 kinds of birds have been recorded. http://www.nps.gov/bibe/naturescience/index.htm

There is evidence in pictographs and archeological site the prove that native people have lived in and passed through the area for thousands of years.

In the last 500 years, no less then six flags have flown over the Big Bend area. They include Spain from 1521 to 1682 and then again in 1689 to 1821. In the gap from 1682 to 1689 France claimed the area. Mexico claimed it in 1821 to 1836 with the Republic of Texas from 1836 to 1848. The Confederate States of America ruled the Big Bend area in 1861 through 1865 and finally the United States of America from 1865 to the present. http://www.nps.gov/bibe/historyculture/index.htm

A beautiful canyon at the Big Bend National Park. Big Bend is location in Texas, USA. It is known for its hiking and Backpacking trails.