Best Peaks and Viewpoints

Big Bend National Park's landscape is defined by the dramatic contrast between the volcanic Chisos Mountains and the Chihuahuan Desert. This collection highlights the park's most significant geological features, from the 7,825-foot summit of Emory Peak to the sheer limestone walls of Santa Elena Canyon. These viewpoints offer perspectives on distinctive formations like the twin Mule Ear Peaks, the narrow mountain drainage known as The Window, and panoramic vistas across the Rio Grande into Mexico.

Santa Elena Canyon Overlook

Panoramic view of the 1,500-foot vertical limestone cliffs where the Rio Grande cuts through the Mesa de Anguila.

Emory Peak

Emory Peak, located in Big Bend National Park, is the highest peak in the Chisos Mountains and the highest in Brewster County.

Peña Mountain

A peak in the western part of the park offering views of the Burro Mesa and surrounding desert lowlands.

The Window Viewpoint

Accessible paved area near the Chisos Basin trailheads providing a framed view of the desert through a V-shaped mountain notch.

The Window

A narrow pour-off at the edge of the Chisos Basin where mountain runoff drains into the desert below.

Mule Ears Overlook

Roadside viewpoint on Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive overlooking twin dacite peaks in the southern desert.

Sotol Vista Overlook

High-altitude vantage point offering 360-degree views of the western park, including Santa Elena Canyon and Burro Mesa.

Lost Mine Peak

A 7,550-foot peak in the Chisos Mountains featuring views of Pine Canyon and the Sierra del Carmen.

Boquillas Canyon Overlook

Viewpoint overlooking the Rio Grande as it enters the park's longest canyon along the eastern border with Mexico.

Desert Mountain Overlook

Scenic stop near Maverick Junction providing views of the western desert landscape and the Christmas Mountains.

Mule Ear Peaks

Distinctive twin volcanic plugs that serve as a prominent landmark in the southern Chihuahuan Desert.

Casa Grande Peak

A prominent rhyolite formation rising 7,325 feet above the Chisos Basin floor.