Chisos Basin Scenic Drive: The Best Views in Big Bend

While the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive gets most of the attention, Big Bend National Park quietly offers another showstopper: the Chisos Basin Scenic Drive. Though shorter in distance, this steep, winding road offers some of the most jaw-dropping views in the park, wrapping through mountain passes and leading to incredible hikes, stargazing, and the only lodge in Big Bend National Park.

If you're visiting Big Bend for the first time, don't overlook this drive. It packs a punch with less commitment and leads you straight into the heart of the Chisos Mountains.

What Is the Chisos Basin Scenic Drive?

Chisos Basin Scenic Drive is a 6-mile mountain road in Big Bend National Park that climbs from the main park road near Panther Junction up into the Chisos Basin. It’s steep, curvy, and not suitable for large RVs or trailers, but it’s one of the most scenic mountain drives in Texas. The road ends in a high-altitude basin surrounded by peaks, where you’ll find hiking trailheads, the Chisos Mountains Lodge, and unbeatable sunset views.

How to Get There

From Panther Junction Visitor Center, take Gano Springs Road (signed for Chisos Basin). It’s only about 6 miles but gains significant elevation and features sharp curves and steep grades.

• Drive Time: ~20 minutes one-way from Panther Junction

• Road Type: Fully paved, steep, and winding

• Vehicle Restrictions: No trailers over 20 feet

6 Best Things to Do Along Chisos Basin Scenic Drive

The Chisos Basin Scenic Drive may be short, but it leads to some of the most rewarding experiences in all of Big Bend National Park. From quick scenic stops to unforgettable hikes, here’s how to make the most of your time once you’re up in the basin:

1. Scenic Pullouts and Overlooks

As you climb into the mountains, you’ll find a few pullouts with sweeping views of the desert floor below and the surrounding peaks. These are perfect for photos, especially early in the morning or just before sunset when the light is golden and dramatic. Simply hop in the car and find your favorite!

2. Window View Trail

This paved, ADA-accessible trail is just 0.3 miles roundtrip and leads to a framed view of the iconic Window, a natural V-shaped notch in the cliffs that perfectly captures Big Bend’s famous sunsets. It’s a must-do even if you’re short on time, and it's great for families or travelers who want a scenic stop without a long hike.

3. The Window Trail

For those who want to experience the Window up close, this 5.5-mile round-trip hike descends from the Chisos Basin floor to the dramatic pour-off at the base of the Window. It’s a moderately strenuous hike with stunning scenery the entire way, ending at a cliff-side view of the desert far below. Go early to beat the heat and crowds.

4. Lost Mine Trail

This is one of Big Bend’s most popular and beloved hikes—and for good reason! The 4.8-mile round-trip hike offers jaw-dropping views almost the entire way, climbing steadily through juniper and pine forest before opening up to sweeping vistas of Pine Canyon, Juniper Canyon, and the Sierra del Carmen mountains. Pro tip: Go early for parking. The small trailhead lot fills up fast!

5. Chisos Basin Loop Trail

A less-crowded alternative to the bigger trails, this 1.8-mile loop starts near the lodge and offers excellent views of the surrounding peaks. It’s great for wildlife spotting (especially in the early morning) and doesn't take much time to complete.

6. Stargazing

Big Bend National Park is an International Dark Sky Park, meaning the stars here are nothing short of magical. Whether you’re staying at the lodge or the campground, you’re just steps from some of the best stargazing in Texas. Bring a blanket, a warm drink, and enjoy the view. New moon nights are especially spectacular.

We planned our February visit around the new moon specifically to take advantage of these conditions, and it was so worth it. With no moonlight and crystal-clear skies, it’s one of the best times of year to visit Big Bend for stargazing.

Where to Stay

• Chisos Mountains Lodge: The only lodge in the park. Book early! We stayed in Roosevelt Cottage 102 (pet-friendly) and loved the convenience and setting.

• Chisos Basin Campground: Nestled right in the basin with amazing views.

🚫 Note: The Chisos Basin area is currently closed for major renovations and will be inaccessible for approximately two years. This closure includes the Basin Road, all lodging units, the Chisos Basin Campground, restaurant, NPS visitor center, camper store, and surrounding trail access. This project affects only the Chisos Basin area—Big Bend National Park remains open and other areas, like Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, are fully accessible.

When to Go

The best time to drive into the Chisos Basin is between October and April. During these months, you'll enjoy cooler temperatures, clear skies, and ideal hiking conditions. Winter and early spring are especially lovely, with crisp mornings and mild afternoons. If you're hoping to catch dramatic sunsets or hike the Lost Mine or Window Trails without battling the heat, this is when to go!

Try to avoid summer, if possible. Temperatures regularly soar above 100°F, and the combination of intense sun, limited shade, and potential afternoon thunderstorms makes hiking less enjoyable and potentially dangerous. Some trails may be too exposed for safe midday hikes, and the heat can be tough even if you're just planning to drive and stop at overlooks.

What to Know Before You Go

• Limited Cell Service: Download maps ahead of time and pick up a physical map at any Visitor Centers. (There’s typically some cell service around Chisos Basin Lodge and Panther Junction Visitor Center.)

• Fuel Up First: No gas stations in the basin.

• No Pets on Trails: Pets are allowed in the car and campgrounds (and a few pet-friendly cabins in Chisos Basin Lodge), but not on trails.

• Road Conditions: The road is steep with switchbacks so take your time and drive cautiously!

Why This Drive Is Worth It

The Chisos Basin Scenic Drive may be short, but it’s unforgettable. With every turn, you climb deeper into Big Bend’s mountain heart. The drive itself is beautiful, but the destination—hiking, stargazing, and waking up surrounded by peaks—is what makes it special. If Ross Maxwell is the desert drama, Chisos Basin is the alpine escape. You don’t need to choose one over the other. Do both!

Related Posts

Travel Season, but make it local. That’s our motto for our 2025 Travel Season: Texas and the Southcentral. Follow along as we explore our own backyard here in Texas.