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Sam Nail Ranch
Easy 0.3 mile hiking loop off of the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive that leads to the remnants of a ranch that is great for wildlife viewing and birdwatching.
Plan Around Sam Nail Ranch
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Sam Nail Ranch Details
The Sam Nail Ranch was abandoned in the 1920s and offers a great glimpse into the not-so-distant-past of Big Bend. The non-native fruit trees that were planted by the Nails are still growing and the remnants of the homestead provide a habitat and shade for desert animals. You'll have no problem spotting birds here. There is a functioning windmill, pump and parts of the house's adobe walls still standing. It gives you a sense of what life was like back when Big Bend was inhabited by ranchers and provides a fun and easy hike to do with kids. You can find the Sam Nail Ranch on mile three of the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive.
Difficulty
Low
Distance
0.3 miles
Estimated time
20 minutes
Region
N/A
Nearby Parks Around Sam Nail Ranch
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Nearby Points of Interest Around Sam Nail Ranch
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Sam Nail Ranch while the map context is still fresh.
2.1 mi away
Ward Spring Trail
The Ward Spring Trail is a moderate, 2.9 mile out and back trail and the trailhead can be accessed at mile marker 5.5 on the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive.
3.1 mi away
Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive
30 mile drive that is designed to highlight the most scenic parts of the western side of the park.
3.1 mi away
Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive Overview
30 mile drive that is designed to highlight the most scenic parts of the western side of the park.
3.5 mi away
Upper Burro Mesa Pouroff Trail
The Upper Burro Mesa Pouroff Trail is a moderate 4.5 mile out and back trail that leads to the top of a dry waterfall.
