There's A Texas Scenic Drive With Hiking Trails Right Off The Road, So You Can Park And Start Exploring
By Katie Lawrence|Published November 22, 2022
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
One of the best scenic drives in Texas takes you through the vast, rugged desert landscape of Big Bend National Park. Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive is a worthwhile adventure in and of itself – but it’s also lined with hiking trails, so you can just park and set off on your way.
The 30-mile Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive is an excellent way to experience Big Bend National Park from the comfort of your own vehicle. Beginning on the western slopes of the Chisos Mountains and ending at the iconic Santa Elena Canyon, this incredible journey also features several hiking trails right off the road for those who need a bit more adventure.
One of the trails you'll encounter is the Chimneys Trail. A moderate, 4.8-mile hike, this fascinating trek leads to a series of volcanic dike formations known as "chimneys" - hence the trail's name. It also features strikingly well-preserved Native American rock art.
If you enjoy expansive mountain views, the Upper Burro Mesa Pour-off Trail is for you. Clocking in at 3.8 miles round-trip, this lovely hike follows a dry wash to the top of a 100-foot pour-off.
The Lower Burro Mesa Pour-off Trail leads to the base of the same wash as the Upper trail. Short and easy, this quick hike showcases just how powerful water can be when it flows through canyons - the wash is usually dry, but a deep gorge illustrates the strength - and fluidity - of the pervasive element.
Another not-too-difficult hike is the Mule Ears Spring Trail, which leads through the foothills of the Chisos Mountains to a natural spring surrounded by lush greenery. Can you tell where the hike gets its name?
History buffs will have a blast on the Sam Nail Ranch Trail. A half-mile loop, this remarkable adventure takes you through an old homestead, with adobe walls and windmills still intact and visible.
Just a quarter-mile longer than Sam Nail Ranch, the Tuff Canyon Trail leads down into a canyon filled with ancient volcanic ash. The views are truly jaw-dropping!
Last, but certainly not least, we have the world-famous Santa Elena Canyon Trail. One of the most popular trails in the park, this easy stroll leads into the mouth of the canyon. It's impossible to forget how small you feel gazing up at the 1,500-foot canyon walls rising up on either side of you...
Have you ever taken the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive? If so, did you embark on any of the trails? Tell us all about your experience in the comments! Don’t forget to check out our previous article for an underrated nearby state park that happens to be the largest state park in Texas.
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