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.
AllTrails/Hayden Tucker Bell
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.
AllTrails/Tracy Kossler
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.
AllTrails/AllTrails User

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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.
AllTrails/Hayden Tucker Bell
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.
AllTrails/AllTrails User
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.
AllTrails/Darcy Wheeler
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.
AllTrails/Mai Nguyen

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.

Are there any restaurants, businesses, or other attractions in Texas you think the world should know about? If so, head on over to our nomination page and give them a shoutout. And who knows? You just might see your submission featured in an upcoming article.

 

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national park to visit in Texas

Jennifer Young | February 04, 2022

What is the largest national park to visit in Texas?

When it comes to parks, there's no denying that Texas is home to some of the very best in the country. The Lone Star State's largest national park is Big Bend National Park, which covers 801,163 acres. This sprawling national park is located in Brewster County and consists of dry desert land, carved river canyons, and tall mountain peaks. Anyone who loves the outdoors and can appreciate the natural beauty of Texas will certainly want to add Big Bend National Park to their bucket list. When it comes to recreational activities, Big Bend National Park offers some of the most fun things to do outside in Texas such as hiking, biking, fishing, canoeing, horseback riding, and so much more. There's truly something for everyone of all ages at Big Bend National Park, so make plans to visit soon.

What is the longest hiking trail in Texas?

There are several hiking trails in Texas. The longest trail is the Lone Star Hiking Trail, which has a distance of 96 miles. It also has an additional 32 miles of loop and crossover trails, which happen to be footpath-only trails. The Lone Star Hiking Trail is located within the Sam Houston National Forest and has a moderate rating when it comes to level of difficulty. It's also one of the most popular hiking trails in the Lone Star State. In fact, this lengthy trail attracts hiking enthusiasts from all across the country. It's also accessible year-round and is mostly used for hiking, backpacking, camping, and nature trips. Texas' Lone Star Hiking Trail most certainly belongs on everyone's hiking bucket list.

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Lost Mine Trail, Texas 79834, USA
Big Bend National Park, TX, USA