Hike Above The Clouds On Lost Mine Trail At Big Bend National Park In Texas

Not everyone knows this, but right here in Texas, you can stand above the clouds without getting on an airplane. Lost Mine Trail at Big Bend National Park only has an elevation gain of ~1,000 feet, but you can see a thick, billowy white fog swirling in the valley below when the clouds are low. This is a great national park to visit in Texas if you're wanting to explore one of the state's most unique trails.

Lost Mine Trail is a crowd favorite at Big Bend, probably in part because of its length. At just 4.2 miles, this out-and-back hike is among the shortest in the park — but that doesn't mean the views are any less breathtaking.

Although the trail is accessible year-round, spring and fall are your best bets to avoid complications from extreme temperatures. Luckily, these two seasons just happen to feature the best scenery as well. Eye-popping wildflowers and vibrant maroon, amber, and golden foliage, respectfully, add even more beauty to the already gorgeous landscape.

If the clouds are sitting low in the sky on your hike, prepare for one of the most magical scenes you've ever laid eyes on. Far below, in the valley, a thick, billowy fog rises up and shrouds the mountains in bewitching mystery.

The elevation gain is only just over a thousand feet, but it looks as though you're staring out the window of an airplane. Big Bend harbors plenty of secrets, and a hike that leads high above the clouds is just one of them.

Since the trail is so short and sweet, you'll have plenty of time to stop and smell the roses without rushing to make it back before dark. We could take in this view for hours without getting the least bit bored.

Even if the clouds aren't putting on a show, Lost Mine Trail never ceases to enchant all who embark on it. After climbing through a lush juniper, pine, and oak forest, the path levels off at a ridge with panoramic views showcasing Pine Canyon and even the Sierra del Carmen in Mexico.

Sunrise and sunset undoubtedly offer some of the most mesmerizing vistas; just be mindful of your timing with the latter as night hiking can be dangerous. Just look off into the horizon — you can see mountaintops so far into the distance.

Portions of Big Bend National Park may be temporarily closed, so be sure to keep up with the official website or Facebook page before heading out. Here is the AllTrails page for Lost Mine Trail.

Have you ever hiked Lost Mine Trail? If so, we'd love to hear all about your adventure. Let us know, and check out our previous article for more information about Big Bend National Park: This Entire Town In Texas Was Turned Into A State Park You Can’t Pass Up.

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