Big Bend National Park

We arrived here Tuesday about noon and by evening had seen much more wildlife than expected. Big Bend is a desert park located on the Texas, Mexico border. On arrival the park doesn't look very impressive, desert scrub growth, low mountain range, dried up river beds is all the eye sees at first.

 Park rangers are always happy to take your money. We bought a yearly "National Park" pass for $80.00 which gets us into all national parks in the USA for one year from date of purchase.

Watching the sun set through the "window" in the Chicos Mountains

Our first siting of "large" critters was Tuesday night as we drove up to Chicos Mountains. Momma bear and her three cubs came out to greet us and make the evening special.

Wednesday morning we got up early to go on a conducted bird hike. The ranger leading the group did an excellent job and we saw over 12 species of birds native to this area.

 You wouldn't think the picture below was taken in a desert, but wherever there is water there is life and trees do grow here as you can see. This area was farmed back in the 20's and irrigation ditches were dug for their crops. Unfortunately much of the human history of this area was destroyed when it was designated a national park. Mining, candle making, small villages where all bulldozed under in an attempt to return Big Bend to its natural state.

Later in the day this coyote decided to walk through the campground.

We are still searching for the bobcat that Marvin and Annie saw twice. Marvin got some excellent photos so I'm hoping I'm just as lucky. Today we are off to hike  to the hot springs this morning then over to the cliff lookout where we can see Mexico across the Rio Grande River. There is just so much to do here we have decided to stay until Saturday. If you are in the area and like to hike be sure and spend some time in Big Bend National Park. It is an experience you won't soon forget.