Group Backpacking in Big Bend National Park

Returning to Big Bend National Park for the third time in a year is a testament to my deep affection for this enchanting place. My passion for budget-friendly road trips blossomed, with memorable visits to Big Bend National Park in both winter and summer. You can explore these adventures in my articles:

Following my Big Bend summer expedition, I embarked on an epic cross-country journey from Texas to Michigan, chronicled in detail in:

Both of these transformative trips deepened my friendship with Greer, my adventurous companion. Inspired by our shared love for backpacking, we planned a Big Bend expedition, inviting Greer’s co-op housemates to join. Unfortunately, Greer’s law exam was postponed during our trip, leaving me with four unfamiliar companions. Despite the unexpected twist, I found joy in teaching and guiding them through the beauty of the Chisos Basin, creating unforgettable memories in the process.

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Before rendezvousing with the guys at Big Bend, I immersed myself in the vibrant atmosphere of Houston’s Day For Night festival (no longer active), held in an abandoned US Post Office warehouse. There, I was captivated by epic performances and mesmerizing light art exhibits. After this exhilarating experience, I embarked on a 10-hour journey into West Texas. Upon reaching the Rio Grande Village Campground and meeting the guys, exhaustion overtook me. I quickly retreated to my tent, eager to rest and recharge for the adventures ahead.

The following morning, we kicked off our adventure by heading straight to the hot springs. Having experienced them during the scorching summer months, with temperatures hitting 118°F, it was a refreshing change to soak in the warm waters while feeling the cool breeze against my skin. In stark contrast, the nearby Rio Grande River felt icy cold. After a quick dip, I retreated back to the hot springs, while the guys ventured across the river into Mexico and back into Texas.

Later, we drove together to the Chisos Basin, a scenic 30-minute drive west along the Mexico-Texas border. Once we gathered our gear, we embarked on the trek. As we navigated switchback after switchback, I couldn’t help but notice the questioning looks from the guys, silently wondering why they had signed up for this. However, as we gained elevation, the breathtaking views of the Chisos Mountains unfolded before us, turning the challenging trek into a rewarding experience.

Despite our campsite being at Juniper Flats, I suggested we take a trek without our packs to my favorite campsite, NE4, known for its awe-inspiring views. The guys didn’t hesitate, and they certainly didn’t regret it—the vista was nothing short of spectacular.

As we set up camp at Juniper Flats, the brisk wind snuck in, making a foresight for the cold night ahead of us. I couldn’t help but notice one of the guys, Scott, without a sleeping bag nor sleeping pad, only a blanket to shield him from the cold.

“You’ll remember tonight,” I said, handing Scott a hand warmer.

I advised everyone on essential gear for a comfortable night a week prior to the trip, reflecting on my own first backpacking experience filled with mistakes, documented in my post:

  • My First Backpacking Trip: The Rookie Mistakes I Made (So You Don’t Have To)

It’s a reminder that we all remember our first time, especially when it’s riddled with errors. I recall the guys reluctantly munching on MREs, a meal choice that proved less than appetizing for all of us. Meanwhile, I savored my preferred brand at the time, Backpacker’s Pantry, a topic I delve into further in another article:

The next morning, despite the brutal night of wind howling, I awoke to find the relentless gale had finally subsided. As I emerged from my tent, I noticed Scott greeting me with his bloodshot eyes.

‘You were right,’ he groaned, ‘I’ll remember last night for the rest of my life. I was so cold, this hand warmer was the only thing that gave me hope.’

Looking back, that ferocious wind could have been a turning point for Scott. I sensed a shift in him—a transformation from a somber, introspective aura to one of vitality and resilience. Though I didn’t know him well, the shift was palpable. I once encountered Scott 4 years later at the Seattle airport (we were actually on the same flight) revealing a marked difference in his demeanor, as he shared tales of his backpacking adventures post-trip. If there’s one thing I cherish about this Big Bend trip, it’s the possibility that it breathed new life into Scott—a beautiful transformation to witness indeed.

Before we descended to the ranger’s station and conclude our trip, we made a spur-of-the-moment decision to climb to the highest peak in Big Bend National Park—a feat I had yet to accomplish. Previous attempts had been thwarted by storms and dense fog, or by blistering heat so intense it seemed to defy reason. Determined to conquer the challenge, we pressed on and reached the summit of Emory Peak!

And that concludes our time in Big Bend National Park. After bidding farewell to the guys, I went my separate way back to Austin. It was truly special to share an experience with those guys, even though I didn’t know them well and they were primarily Greer’s friends. Despite our unfamiliarity, we forged a sense of camaraderie that I believe will endure for a lifetime.

Before I wrap up, I want to share some informal anecdote about encountering the border patrol near Big Bend. Two important pieces of advice come to mind:

  1. If you’re not an American citizen, always bring your passport! While you may not be crossing borders, you’ll likely encounter border patrol, especially leaving the West Texas area. When I said goodbye to the guys, I heard a story about one of them, Fredrik, who is Swedish. When the border patrol asked if everyone was an American citizen, he replied, “no.” Naturally, they requested his ID. Fredrik was a bit flustered because he only had his University of Texas student ID card, which the border patrol slapped it out of his hand and dismissed as useless. Luckily, Fredrik’s unmistakably Swedish appearance and accent helped him out of the situation. It’s a funny story in hindsight, but please remember to bring your passport if you’re foreign.
  2. Don’t bring marijuana back with you! As you leave the Big Bend area, you’ll have to pass through border patrol. For any marijuana enthusiasts out there, if you’ve indulged while in the area, do not bring any back with you. Also, be mindful of smoking it carelessly while in Big Bend National Park. Not only is marijuana still illegal in Texas, but the park is federal land. Whatever you bring in, leave it behind. I’ve heard countless stories from friends about encounters with border patrol in West Texas due to marijuana-related issues. So, please heed this advice and avoid any unnecessary trouble.

Hope that’s helpful advise!