The Lost Mine Trail is easily the most popular hike in Big Bend National Park. After hiking it myself, I can see why. This 4.8-mile round trip trail takes you up 1,100 feet of elevation into the Chisos Mountains, with views that get better every step of the way. On a clear day, you can see all the way into Mexico from the summit.
In this post I’ll share my experience hiking Lost Mine Trail, tips for planning your visit, and the best time to hit the trail.
Tips for Hiking Lost Mine Trail
- Plan 2-3 hours to hike to the summit and back. It took us about 3 hours on our visit, including 15 minutes at the peak enjoying the view.
- Arrive before 8am. The small trailhead parking lot fills up fast, especially on weekends and holidays. If the lot is full, the next closest parking is at the Chisos Basin Visitor Center, about 1.25 miles down the road.
- Bring at least 2 liters of water per person. There is no water available on the trail, and the Texas sun is strong even in cooler months.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes or hiking boots. The upper portion of the trail has loose rock and steep switchbacks.
- There are no restrooms at the trailhead, so plan accordingly before driving out.
- Pets are not allowed on this trail or any trail in Big Bend National Park.
- Check the NPS website before your hike. The trail occasionally closes due to bear activity in the Chisos Mountains.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Much of the trail is exposed, especially near the summit where wind can also be strong.
Below is a photo of the parking lot located off of Basin Junction.
Best Time to Hike Lost Mine Trail
The best months to hike Lost Mine Trail are October through April, when temperatures in the Chisos Mountains stay comfortable for hiking. Summer months bring extreme heat during the day, though afternoon monsoon storms can create dramatic skies if you don’t mind getting caught in the rain.
For the best experience, start your hike early in the morning. An early start means cooler temps, easier parking, and fewer crowds on the trail. If you time it right at sunrise, you might catch the famous “horse shadow” that appears on Casa Grande Peak as the sun rises behind you. This shadow only lasts about 20 minutes, so you’ll want to be on the trail before dawn with a headlamp.
Late afternoon is another solid option, especially for photographers. The golden hour light hits the canyon walls beautifully from the summit.
Hiking the Lost Mine Trail
Lost Mine Trail starts with a gradual climb through pine and oak forest in the Chisos Mountains. Within the first mile, you’ll reach a saddle with views of Casa Grande Peak and Juniper Canyon. Even if you don’t plan to hike the full trail, this first section alone makes the trip worthwhile.
You’ll find a few benches near the start of the trail, a good spot to catch your breath and take in the scenery.
As you gain elevation, the views open up in every direction. The canyon scenery stretches on for miles, and it’s hard not to stop every few minutes to take it all in.
Plenty of spots along the trail offer great photo opportunities. Some areas have rocks just off the path where you can scramble up for an even better vantage point of the valley below.
Every overlook tempts you to stop for another photo.
The grade picks up further into the hike, with stone stairs and steeper sections. Nothing too intense though, and a steady pace works well for the entire trail. If you’re looking for more hikes in the park, the Balanced Rock hike is another great option in Big Bend.
The final push to the summit takes you through a series of switchbacks. The trail gets steeper here, but each turn rewards you with a better view than the last. Expect strong wind gusts near the ridgeline, so bring a light jacket if you’re hiking in cooler months.
Lost Mine Trail Summit
The summit of Lost Mine Trail opens up to panoramic views on all sides. You can walk along the ridge to explore multiple vantage points, each with a different perspective of the surrounding mountains and desert below.
From the top you can see both Juniper Canyon and Pine Canyon stretching out below. On clear days, the Sierra del Carmen mountains in Mexico are visible in the distance. Near the end of the ridge, a large rock formation juts out from the mountain. Some hikers climb up on it for an even higher vantage point, though you’ll want to watch your footing.
Lost Mine Trail Pictures
Here are more photos from my hike at the Lost Mine Trail in Big Bend National Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Lost Mine Trail?
Lost Mine Trail is 4.8 miles round trip (2.4 miles each way) with 1,100 feet of elevation gain. Most hikers finish in 2 to 3 hours depending on pace and how often you stop for photos.
Is Lost Mine Trail difficult?
The trail is rated moderate. The first mile is a gentle climb, but the second half gets steeper with switchbacks leading to the summit. Anyone in reasonable fitness can complete it at a steady pace.
What time should I arrive at Lost Mine Trail?
Get there before 8am to secure a parking spot at the trailhead. The lot is small and fills up fast during peak season (October through April). Starting early also means cooler temperatures and smaller crowds.
Can you see Mexico from Lost Mine Trail?
Yes. On clear days the Sierra del Carmen mountains in Mexico are visible from the summit, along with views of Juniper Canyon and Pine Canyon stretching out below.
Are there bears on Lost Mine Trail?
Black bears live in the Chisos Mountains and are sometimes spotted near the trail. The National Park Service occasionally closes Lost Mine Trail due to bear activity, so check the NPS website or stop at the Chisos Basin Visitor Center before heading out.
Lost Mine Trail is hands down the best hike in Big Bend National Park. If you only have time for one trail during your visit, make it this one. Pack plenty of water, get there early, and take your time on the way up. On your drive to or from Big Bend, consider a stop at Prada Marfa for a unique roadside photo op.
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