This Incredible Lookout In Texas Is So Worth The Hike It Takes To Get There

Some hikes really test our fortitude, and the Emory Peak via South Rim and Boot Springs Trail in Big Bend National Park is one of them. What many consider to be the best hike near Terlingua, Texas, this long and hard trek takes hikers on a steep ascent to a mountaintop with sweeping views in all directions. There are so many incredible hiking trails in Texas, but few hold a candle to this challenging, yet rewarding trek.

If you aren't afraid of heights (or you're open to challenging the fear!), you can't pass up the Emory Peak via South Rim Trail and Boot Springs Trail next time you're at Big Bend National Park.

The 15-mile loop features an elevation gain of nearly 3,200 feet, so it definitely isn't for the faint of heart.

Like many trails in the park, the Emory Peak Trail begins near the Visitor Center.

Since it is a loop, you can choose to either go clockwise or counterclockwise. If you choose the former, you'll get the hardest parts out of the way in the beginning. If going counterclockwise, however, you'll have a full 10-mile warmup before the difficulty really ramps up.

Big Bend is known for black bears, and this is one of the best trails to take if you're looking to spot some.

Many hikers report that the bears don't seem to be too interested in humans, but still make sure you read up on bear safety before embarking on the trail.

The climb to the tip top of Emory Peak requires some uphill rock scrambling, so be sure to wear durable and sturdy shoes.

Once you reach the summit, you'll be at the highest point in the canyon, and the 360-degree views are simply unbeatable.

Perhaps you'll take a few minutes to sit atop the mountain and reflect on all of your hard work that got you to this point.

This would also be a great time to chug some water and fuel up with snacks to give you energy for the long hike back to the trailhead.

Along the way, the views from the South Rim Trail are also totally stunning (some people say they're even better than Emory Peak itself, but I'll let you be the judge!).

It's also worth noting that you absolutely don't have to trek all the way up to Emory Peak if you aren't entirely comfortable with technical hiking. There are still plenty of great scenic viewpoints to enjoy safely.

Visit AllTrails to learn more about the Emory Peak via South Rim and Boot Springs Trail. I also recommend signing up for AllTrails+ for additional perks such as 3D and offline map access. Finally, check out our hiking packing list below for all the gear (especially hiking poles for that final ascent) you need for this (and any other!) hike you find yourself on.

Have you ever embarked on the Emory Peak via South Rim and Boot Springs Trail? If so, do you think it's one of the best hikes in Texas? Tell us your thoughts in the comments!