10 Must-Pack Types of Gear for Big Bend Hiking
- Hiking Backpack. A hike without a backpack is just a long walk.
- Sleeping Bag.
- Hiking Shoes.
- Socks.
- Base Layers.
- Camp Chair.
- Water Bottle or Hydration Reservoir.
- Flashlight or Headlamp.
How do you prepare for Big Bend?
Drink plenty of water during your stay and be prepared for changing Big Bend weather conditions. Here are some more great tips! Protect yourself from the sun! It’s a good idea to avoid hiking during mid-day heat in the summer months, and to bring a long sleeve layer along for extra sun protection.
How much water can you bring to the Big Bend?
We recommend that you carry a minimum of one gallon of water per person per day in the summer, slightly less in the winter. For half-day hikes, carry at least 2 quarts (2 liters) per person.
Do you need a bear canister in Big Bend National Park?
At all campsites: All food products and trash, unclean cooking utensils, water, and other aromatic items (sunscreen, toothpaste, deoderant, etc.) MUST be stored in a hard-sided vehicle, or in the provided bear resistant storage locker.
How cold does it get in Big Bend?
Winter visitors should be prepared for any weather; temperatures vary from below freezing to above 80 degrees Fahrenheit .
Are there bathrooms at Big Bend?
Are There Showers and Bathrooms in the Park? The park’s three official campgrounds—Chisos Basin, Cottonwood, and Rio Grande Village—all have restroom facilities. However, the only showers in Big Bend are located at the Rio Grande Village Store, where the pay-to-use showers are available 24/7.
Are there tarantulas in Big Bend National Park?
Arthropods include a diversity of creatures including cockroaches, millipedes, tarantulas, and lobsters. Some of the most easily sighted arthropods in the park include Millipedes (Diplopoda), Butterflies (Lepidoptera), Dragonflies (Odonata), and Grasshoppers (Orthoptera).
Should I take bear spray Big Bend?
Unlike Glacier or Yellowstone National Park where bear spray is a requirement, you’ll likely be just fine going without while you’re hiking in Big Bend.
How Safe Is Big Bend National Park?
Big Bend National Park is a safe destination for outdoor enthusiasts such as hikers. A recent study from a law firm found that Big Bend had only 16 deaths among 4.4 million visitors from 2007 to 2018.
How do you cache water in Big Bend?
Water can be cached in the storage boxes located at the Homer Wilson/Blue Creek Ranch and at the end of the Juniper Canyon road (Juniper Canyon requires a high clearance vehicle). Caching water in any other NPS-provided storage box is prohibited.
Can bears smell food in a bear canister?
Yes, bears can smell the food in your bear canister.
What goes in a bear bag?
What Should You Put in a Bear Bag?
- All of your food.
- Olive or cooking oil.
- Toothpaste.
- Toothbrush.
- Deodorant.
- Mouthwash.
- Perfume.
- Soap.
Does Big Bend have snakes?
There are 31 species of snakes found in Big Bend National Park, including 4 species of rattlesnakes. There are also three additional snakes listed as hypothetical (no confirmed sightings). After summer rains snakes may be more active. Keep in mind that all wildlife, including snakes, are protected in the park.
What is the best month to go to Big Bend National Park?
Fall and spring are the best times to visit Big Bend National Park. Temperatures are mild during the day and cool at night. March is one of the busiest months in the park, because of the great weather conditions and the influx of spring break travelers.
Are there bears in Big Bend?
A healthy adult bear in Big Bend can weigh 200-400 pounds and stand five to six feet tall. There are approximately 30-40 black bears living in Big Bend.
How many days do you need in Big Bend?
With three days to spend in the park, you can explore the major roads more thoroughly and still have time for hiking.
Is there cell service in Big Bend?
Cell service is very spotty throughout the entire Big Bend area. Areas with fairly reliable service include the Chisos Basin area, and near Panther Junction.
Is Big Bend crowded?
When is Big Bend Busy? Once relatively unknown, Big Bend National Park is now experiencing a major increase in visitation and with it a greater demand for both frontcountry and backcountry camping. The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in even more visitors seeking out the qualities of this special place.
Is there WiFi in Big Bend National Park?
WiFi—available at the Chisos Mountain Lodge, Rio Grande Village Store, Panther Junction Visitor Center. There are no public-use computer terminals in the park.
Does Texas have a spider season?
Generally known to be active from May through October, the eighth month of the year (quite apropos) is when things get a little hairy for these critters. Their mating season brings them out to make appearances when generally they wouldn’t necessarily want to come in contact with humans.
How common are tarantulas in Texas?
Fairly common throughout the State of Texas, tarantulas are burrowing spiders that are easily identified by their large size. There are 14 species of tarantula found throughout Texas and specific identification is difficult even to those with the proper equipment, literature, and experience.