Auto Touring in Big Bend

Auto Touring

Driving options include paved roads, improved dirt roads and primitive dirt roads, totaling over 200 miles to explore.

Guide Sections

Use Auto Touring's guide sections to understand how this stop fits into the larger park plan.

Information

Auto Touring Details

Difficulty

Open

Distance

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Estimated time

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Region

Activities

Big Bend offers over 100 miles of paved roads with scenic overlooks, trailheads and a taste of all the different kinds of scenery the park has to offer. There are four dirt roads that cover 16 miles of difficult terrain you can explore, depending on season and road condition. These roads lead you down the less-travelled paths in the park, but remember to check the car safety regulations posted at the beginning of each improved dirt road. If you are looking for a backcountry experience, traveling down some of the over 110 miles of primitive dirt roads might satisfy some of the adventure you're looking for. Some of the roads may be impassible after rains, so make sure to check in with a ranger at a visitor center before embarking on one of these primitive dirt road adventures. Make sure to obey all posted vehicle restrictions and use your best judgement about what your vehicle can handle.