7 Best Stops and Hikes From Panther Junction to Rio Grande Village
This 21-mile stretch between Panther Junction and Rio Grande Village might not get as much attention as the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, but it deserves a spot on your Big Bend itinerary. The road gradually descends nearly 2,000 feet from the Chihuahuan Desert basin down to the Rio Grande, unfolding layer after layer of ancient limestone, wide-open desert, and big mountain views. You’ll pass through birding hotspots, quiet desert oases, and end up near one of the park’s most iconic experiences: the Hot Springs.
Here are the best stops along the drive, listed from west to east:
1. Dugout Wells
Once a small homestead, Dugout Wells is now a shaded desert oasis. A short loop trail winds through mesquite and desert vegetation, and there’s a picnic area tucked beneath the trees. It’s a great leg-stretch stop, and a surprisingly good spot for birdwatching.
Trail: Dugout Wells Nature Trail
Distance: 0.5-mile loop
Time: 15–30 minutes
2. Hot Springs Historic Area
One of Big Bend’s most popular experiences! The trail to the Hot Springs follows the river and leads to the ruins of a 1900s-era bathhouse. The hot water still flows into a natural pool on the edge of the Rio Grande. Soaking here with the canyon walls rising around you is a true Big Bend moment.
Trail: Hot Springs Trail
Distance: 1-mile round trip
Time: 45–60 minutes
Note: The road to the Hot Springs is narrow and not suitable for RVs or large vehicles.
3. Rio Grande Overlook
A quick stop with sweeping views of the Rio Grande and Sierra del Carmen range. This overlook is especially beautiful in the late afternoon when the sun lights up the canyon walls across the river. It’s a simple pullout with a big payoff, and is only a few minutes from both Boquillas Canyon and Rio Grande Village.
Distance from Panther Junction: About 20 miles
Time: 5–10 minutes
No hiking required
4. Rio Grande Village
This is the park’s easternmost developed area, with a campground, seasonal visitor center, small year-round store, and access to several trails. It’s usually warmer here than in other parts of the park, making it a nice winter basecamp. The Cottonwood trees and nearby wetlands also make it a popular area for birders.
5. Rio Grande Village Nature Trail
This underrated gem starts near the campground and crosses a boardwalk through a spring-fed wetland that’s home to frogs, turtles, and migratory birds. The trail climbs to a scenic overlook where you’ll get panoramic views of the Rio Grande, Boquillas, and the Sierra del Carmen.
Trail: Rio Grande Village Nature Trail
Distance: 0.75-mile loop
Time: 30–45 minutes
Best Time: Sunset
6. Boquillas Canyon Overlook & Trail
This short trail climbs a small hill before dropping down into a sandy path that hugs the Rio Grande. At the end, you’ll find one of the park’s most scenic canyon views. In the right conditions, you may hear the echo of your voice bouncing off the canyon walls.
Trail: Boquillas Canyon Trail
Distance: 1.4 miles round trip
Time: 45–60 minutes
🥾 Bonus Hike: Marufo Vega Trail
For experienced hikers looking for solitude and sweeping canyon views, the Marufo Vega Trail is a strenuous backcountry route into Big Bend’s wildest corners. The trail loops through rugged limestone ridges and down to the Rio Grande.
Trailhead: Across from Boquillas Canyon pullout
Distance: ~14-mile loop
Time: 7–10 hours (or overnight with permit)
Difficulty: Strenuous – high exposure, elevation gain, no water
Highlights: Epic views, remote canyons, river access
Warning: Not recommended in summer; bring plenty of water and navigation tools
7. Boquillas Border Crossing (Optional)
If the border is open, you can cross into Boquillas, Mexico, via a small rowboat ferry (passport required). It's a unique half-day trip that includes the chance to enjoy lunch in town, hear live music, and visit another country through a national park.
Want to Make It a Loop? Try River Road
If you're feeling adventurous and have a high-clearance, 4WD vehicle, you can turn the Panther Junction to Rio Grande Village drive into a scenic backcountry loop using River Road East and River Road West.
This historic, rugged route follows the Rio Grande through some of the most remote parts of the park, connecting Rio Grande Village back to the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive near Castolon. It’s one of the most dramatic and least-traveled drives in Big Bend and is a favorite among experienced off-roaders.
Distance: ~51 miles from Rio Grande Village to Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive via River Road
Time: Allow at least 4–6 hours (longer if stopping for hikes or photos)
Requirements: High-clearance 4WD vehicle; check conditions at a visitor center before heading out
What You’ll See: Remote desert scenery, river views, desert arroyos, old ruins, and wildlife
Highlight Hikes: Mariscal Canyon Rim Trail
You can drive the full River Road loop or break it into sections:
River Road East connects Rio Grande Village to the intersection near Glenn Spring and Mariscal Mine.
River Road West continues on to the west end of the park near Castolon and connects to the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive.
⚠️ Note: River Road is remote and unpaved. There are no services or cell signal. Always carry plenty of water, extra supplies, and let someone know your travel plans. This is one of Big Bend’s ultimate adventure routes and if you’re equipped for it, the loop offers a whole new way to experience the park’s vast, wild beauty. However, travel on this primitive road requires high clearance and four-wheel drive. It’s not fo passanger cars, minivans, motorhomes, or crossover SUVs.
❓FAQ: Know Before You Go
Q: How long does the drive take?
Without stops, it’s about 45 minutes from Panther Junction to Rio Grande Village. But with all the short trails and scenic stops, give yourself 2–4 hours if you want to really enjoy it.
Q: Is the road paved and easy to drive?
Yes, the main road is paved and suitable for all vehicles. The only exception is the spur road to the Hot Springs, which is best for high-clearance vehicles only.
Q: What’s the best time of day to drive from Panther Junction to Rio Grande Village?
Morning and evening are best for cooler temperatures and beautiful light over the desert and Sierra del Carmen mountains. Sunset at the Rio Grande Village Nature Trail is especially memorable.
Q: Can you see wildlife along this stretch?
Yes! We’ve personally spotted a mule and a coyote on this drive. Keep an eye out for javelinas, roadrunners, hawks, and other desert wildlife, especially early or late in the day.
Q: Are there services along the way?
There are no services between Panther Junction and Rio Grande Village. You’ll find gas, snacks, water, and bathrooms at both ends of the drive.
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