Big Bend National Park

March 8/16 Weather 75 sun and clouds, low 51.

our bike at the entrance

Did you know that Big Bend National Park is the least visited N.P. in the U.S.?  It is quite large, about the size of Rhode Island.  We have cruised by south west Texas a few times in the last 5 years and never put the time aside to head down to the park.   It is not on your way to somewhere else that's for sure.  The National Park is 98 percent covered in desert and desert grassland.  The other 2 percent is in the heart of the park - the Chisos mountains.  Take water, granola bars, or picnic lunch as there are very little facilities available inside the park. 

chisos mountains in the distance

rugged mountain edges

The Rio Grande River traces along the southern border of the park and 118 miles on the Mexico line.  From our RV Park we have about 20 miles to the entrance to the Nat'l Park.  The drive to the far east Rio Grand Village is quite picturesque with the Chisos always looming ahead.   We drove to the  farthest scenic stop and did a short hike to the Boquillas Canyon Overlook.

Billy looking over the Rio Grande - very shallow...... can't get over the lack of water

Mexican fellow selling handmade walking sticks at Boquillas canyon trail

 Along the hike to the river you will come across a small arts stand setup on a large rock by a Mexican fellow who lives just across the water.   If he is not there and you want to buy a walking stick he has carved, there will be a can for you to leave your few dollars.  Enterprising fellow you have to admit !!!  About 5 miles away on the Mexican side is the tiny remote primitive village of Boquillas del Carmen.  Today the border crossing was not open.  At specific times you can cross the Rio here via a small rowboat boat and clearing border inspection on the Mexican side.   Can you imagine - a rowboat???  Once across the primitive town offers for a cost burro rides around town.  There are about 140 people living in this remote area. 

Boquillas del Carmen, Mexico