How to Get to Big Bend National Park: Best Travel Routes

Big Bend National Park is a remote yet breathtaking destination in West Texas, requiring careful travel planning. Whether you're flying into the nearest airports, driving from major cities, or considering alternative transportation options, this guide covers everything you need to know to reach the park efficiently.



Flying to Big Bend

Nearest Airports

Since Big Bend National Park is located in a remote region of West Texas, there are no major airports directly within the park. However, several nearby airports provide access to the area:

• Midland International Air & Space Port (MAF) – Located approximately 200 miles northeast of the park, Midland International is the closest major airport with commercial flights. It offers connections to major cities like Dallas, Houston, and Phoenix.
• El Paso International Airport (ELP) – About 300 miles from Big Bend, El Paso International provides a larger selection of flights and airlines. However, the drive from El Paso to the park is longer compared to Midland.
• San Antonio International Airport (SAT) – Nearly 400 miles away, San Antonio International is a viable option for travelers who want to incorporate a broader Texas road trip into their journey.
• Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) and Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) – While much farther from Big Bend (over 400 miles), these airports serve as major hubs with extensive flight connections.

Connecting Flights and Regional Airports

For travelers looking for an airport closer to Big Bend, smaller regional airports may provide additional options:

• Alpine-Casparis Municipal Airport (E38) – Located in Alpine, Texas, about 80 miles from Big Bend, this airport is primarily used for private and chartered aircraft.
• Terlingua Ranch Airport (1E2) – A small airstrip near Terlingua for private planes, offering the closest direct access to the park.

Since commercial flights do not operate at these smaller airports, visitors will need to arrange for charter services or private flights.

Renting a Car After Arrival

Regardless of the airport chosen, renting a car is necessary to reach Big Bend, as no public transportation options connect the major airports directly to the park. Rental services are available at all major airports, with a variety of vehicle options, including SUVs for those planning to explore unpaved roads within the park.

Estimated Drive Times from Airports

After landing, visitors should be prepared for long drives to reach Big Bend. Approximate driving times from key airports include:

• Midland International to Big Bend – 3.5 to 4 hours
• El Paso International to Big Bend – 4.5 to 5 hours
• San Antonio International to Big Bend – 6 to 7 hours
• Austin-Bergstrom to Big Bend – 7 to 8 hours
• Dallas/Fort Worth to Big Bend – 8 to 9 hours

Flight Planning Tips

• Book flights in advance, especially during peak seasons (spring and fall) when travel to Big Bend is more popular.
• Plan for a rental car, as driving is the only way to access the park.
• Check flight connections, as some airports like Midland and El Paso may require layovers depending on your departure city.
• Consider private or charter flights if traveling from within Texas and looking for a faster route.

Flying to Big Bend National Park can be a convenient option for visitors who prefer an expedited journey, but it requires careful planning due to the park’s remote location.

Driving Routes from Major Cities

Big Bend National Park is located in a remote region of West Texas, making driving the most convenient and flexible transportation option. The park is accessible from several major Texas cities, each with different route options and travel times. Below are the best driving routes from key metropolitan areas.

From Houston

Houston is approximately 600 miles from Big Bend National Park, with an estimated drive time of 9 to 10 hours. The most efficient route is:

1. Take I-10 West toward San Antonio.
2. Continue on I-10 West past San Antonio, heading toward Fort Stockton.
3. In Fort Stockton, merge onto US-67 South toward Alpine.
4. From Alpine, take TX-118 South or US-90 West to Marathon.
5. From Marathon, follow US-385 South directly to the park entrance.

Alternative Route: For a more scenic drive, consider taking US-90 West from San Antonio instead of I-10. This route passes through Del Rio and offers a more rural driving experience.

From Dallas

Dallas is about 550 miles from Big Bend, with a travel time of approximately 8 to 9 hours. The recommended driving route is:

1. Take I-20 West toward Odessa.
2. At Odessa, merge onto I-10 West and continue toward Fort Stockton.
3. From Fort Stockton, follow US-67 South toward Alpine.
4. From Alpine, take TX-118 South or US-90 West to Marathon.
5. Continue on US-385 South to the park entrance.

Alternative Route: Travelers looking for a more scenic drive can take US-67 South from Fort Stockton through Alpine instead of staying on I-10 as long as possible.

From San Antonio

San Antonio is approximately 400 miles from Big Bend, with a drive time of 6 to 7 hours. The most direct route is:

1. Take I-10 West toward Fort Stockton.
2. From Fort Stockton, take US-67 South to Alpine.
3. From Alpine, follow TX-118 South or US-90 West to Marathon.
4. From Marathon, take US-385 South to the park entrance.

Alternative Route: If you prefer a more scenic drive, take US-90 West from San Antonio instead of I-10, passing through Del Rio and Langtry.

From Austin

Austin is about 430 miles from Big Bend, with a drive time of 7 to 8 hours. The best route is:

1. Take US-290 West toward Fredericksburg.
2. Merge onto I-10 West and continue past Kerrville and Junction.
3. Stay on I-10 West until reaching Fort Stockton.
4. From Fort Stockton, take US-67 South toward Alpine.
5. From Alpine, take either TX-118 South or US-90 West to Marathon.
6. From Marathon, follow US-385 South to the park entrance.

From El Paso

El Paso is the closest major city to Big Bend, located around 300 miles away with a 4.5 to 5-hour drive. The easiest route is:

1. Take I-10 East toward Van Horn.
2. At Van Horn, merge onto US-90 East toward Marfa.
3. Continue on US-90 East through Alpine and Marathon.
4. From Marathon, take US-385 South directly to the park entrance.

Alternative Route: For a more scenic drive, take TX-118 South from Alpine instead of staying on US-90. This route passes through the Chisos Mountains.

From Odessa

Odessa is approximately 250 miles from Big Bend, with a drive time of 4 to 5 hours. The best route is:

1. Take I-20 West toward Monahans.
2. Merge onto TX-18 South to Fort Stockton.
3. From Fort Stockton, take US-67 South toward Alpine.
4. From Alpine, take TX-118 South or US-90 West to Marathon.
5. From Marathon, follow US-385 South to the park entrance.

Alternative Route: Travelers can skip Alpine and take TX-349 South from Midland to meet US-67 South near Fort Stockton for a slightly different route.

Each of these routes offers unique landscapes and driving experiences. Regardless of your starting point, travelers should ensure their vehicle is in good condition, pack ample water and supplies, and prepare for limited fuel stations in the remote areas surrounding Big Bend National Park.

Ground Transportation Options

Driving to Your Destination

Driving is one of the most convenient ways to reach your destination, offering flexibility and the ability to explore at your own pace. If you're heading to Big Bend National Park, driving is often the most practical option due to the park's remote location.

Road Conditions and Safety

Many routes leading to Big Bend involve long stretches of highway and rural roads with limited services. It's important to:

• Ensure your vehicle is in good condition before starting the trip.
• Carry extra water, fuel, and emergency supplies.
• Be mindful of wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk.

Key Highways and Routes

Depending on your starting point, major highways leading to Big Bend include:

• From Austin, Dallas, or San Antonio: Take I-10 West, then US-385 South from Fort Stockton.
• From El Paso: Follow I-10 East to US-90 East through Alpine, then head south on TX-118 or US-385.
• From Houston: Take I-10 West to US-290 West through Fredericksburg, then connect to US-385.

Bus and Shuttle Services

While public transportation options are limited, some private shuttle services operate in the region. These include:

• Intercity Bus Services: Greyhound operates routes to Alpine, which is the closest city with bus service to Big Bend. From Alpine, you will need to arrange a rental vehicle or private shuttle.
• Local Shuttle Services: Some tour companies offer private transportation from Alpine or Terlingua to Big Bend National Park.

Train Travel

Amtrak’s Sunset Limited line runs through Alpine, Texas, which is the closest train station to Big Bend National Park. From Alpine, visitors must arrange for a rental car or shuttle service to reach the park, as no direct public transportation is available.

Rental Cars and Private Transportation

If flying or taking a train to the region, renting a car is often necessary to reach your final destination. Rental services are available in cities such as:

• Midland/Odessa: The closest major airport with multiple rental car options.
• El Paso and San Antonio: Larger airport hubs with a wide selection of vehicles.
• Alpine: Limited rental options, so reservations should be made in advance.

For those preferring private transport, some tour operators provide pre-arranged transportation services to and from Big Bend.

Motorcycle Travel

Motorcycles offer a unique way to experience the open roads leading to Big Bend. Riders should consider:

• The long distances without fuel stations—always plan refueling stops.
• Weather conditions, as extreme heat and sun exposure can be a challenge.
• The availability of paved and unpaved roads, depending on the route chosen.

Cycling to Big Bend

For adventurous cyclists, biking to Big Bend is possible but requires significant preparation. The vast distances, lack of water sources, and elevation changes make it a challenging but rewarding trip. Key considerations include:

• Carrying adequate water and supplies.
• Being prepared for long stretches without services.
• Checking road conditions and traffic patterns before departure.

By choosing the right ground transportation method, travelers can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey to their destination.

Final Approach to the Park

Last Major Towns and Services

Before entering Big Bend National Park, travelers pass through small towns that serve as the last major points for fuel, food, and lodging. The most common gateway communities include:

• Terlingua – A historic mining town turned tourist hub with accommodations, restaurants, and general stores.
• Study Butte – The closest town to the park’s western entrance, offering gas stations and basic supplies.
• Marathon – Located near the park’s northern entrance, featuring hotels, restaurants, and a small grocery store.

Since services inside the park are limited, it's advisable to refuel and stock up on supplies in these towns before proceeding.

Road Access to Big Bend National Park

Big Bend National Park is accessible via well-maintained highways, but the remote nature of the park means long stretches of driving without services. The primary approaches include:

• Highway 118 (from Alpine to Study Butte/Terlingua) – A scenic route leading to the western entrance, ideal for visitors coming from Alpine or Marfa.
• Highway 385 (from Marathon to Panther Junction) – The most direct route to the park’s main headquarters and visitor center.
• FM 170 (River Road from Presidio to Study Butte) – A stunning but winding drive along the Rio Grande, recommended for those seeking a scenic approach.

Park Entrances and Checkpoints

Big Bend has three main entrance points:

1. Persimmon Gap Entrance (North Entrance) – Accessed via Highway 385 from Marathon, leading to the central visitor facilities at Panther Junction.
2. Maverick Entrance (West Entrance) – The most commonly used entrance, located near Study Butte and Terlingua, providing access to the Chisos Basin and Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive.
3. Rio Grande Village Entrance (East Entrance) – A less frequently used entry point, suitable for visitors heading to the Rio Grande campsites and Boquillas border crossing.

Each entrance has a park fee station and informational signage. Visitors should check operating hours and park alerts before arrival.

Driving Conditions and Final Preparations

The final stretch into Big Bend involves long, open highways with limited traffic and cell service. Important considerations include:

• Fuel and Supplies – Gas stations are scarce inside the park, with only one available at Panther Junction. It's crucial to fill up beforehand.
• Road Conditions – Most major roads are paved, but some backcountry roads require high-clearance or four-wheel-drive vehicles.
• Weather Awareness – Temperatures can vary significantly, and flash floods may affect certain roads during heavy rains.

By planning for these final approach details, visitors can ensure a smooth and enjoyable entry into Big Bend National Park.

Reaching Big Bend National Park requires strategic planning, whether flying into the nearest airports or embarking on a long road trip. Renting a car, ensuring adequate supplies, and knowing the best routes will make your journey smoother. Prepare accordingly, and enjoy the adventure in one of Texas' most spectacular destinations.