Overview
Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive is a picturesque, 30-mile route through Big Bend National Park, offering stunning desert and mountain landscapes, historic sites, and access to popular hiking trails. The drive features well-maintained roads, pull-offs, and parking areas for visitors to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the park.
The drive is named after Ross Maxwell, a former park superintendent, and provides access to some of the park's most iconic landscapes and historical sites.
Location
Address
Ross Maxwell Scenic Dr, Big Bend National Park, Texas
Neighborhood: Big Bend National Park
Coordinates
29.175100, -103.229100
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
October-May
Best Time of Day
Early morning or late afternoon
Cooler temperatures and better lighting for photography
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Mild to warm
- • Wildflowers
- • Spring blooms
summer
Hot
- • Extended daylight hours
autumn
Cool to mild
- • Fall colors
- • Cooling temperatures
winter
Cool to mild
- • Winter landscapes
- • Cooler temperatures
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Enter through official gates
- Check road conditions
- Carry plenty of water
- Protect from sun
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Moderate (for hikes)
- • Heat exhaustion
- • Dehydration
- • Sunburn
Medical facilities: Nearest medical help is 1.5 hours away
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Cards
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Casual and comfortable, Hiking shoes, sun hat, sunglasses, Comfortable walking or hiking shoes, Inappropriate clothing for outdoor activities
Booking Tips
- • Not required, but plan ahead for lodging
- • National Park Service website
- • Varies by lodging, check when booking
- • Not applicable
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Big Bend National Park
Size: 50 MB
Features: Park map, Trail information, Ranger programs
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor Center, Chisos Mountain Lodge
Charging Stations: Visitor Center
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Midland International Airport (MAF)
Distance: 300 miles
Travel Time: 5.5 hours
From City Center
Distance: Varies by starting point
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Stunning landscapes, rich history, and unique cultural experiences
Historical Significance: The drive passes through historic sites and offers a glimpse into the park's past
Insider Tips
- Visit early for fewer crowds
- Check ranger programs for unique experiences
- Stay hydrated and protect from the sun
Local Recommendations
- • Visit the Chisos Mountains for a change of scenery
- • Try the local cuisine at Castolon
- • Ask rangers for hidden gems
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Spanish
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Santa Elena Canyon Overlook
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Wide-angle shots
Result: Stunning canyon views
Castolon
Best Time: Morning
Tips: Historic buildings
Result: Charming historic town
Boquillas Canyon
Best Time: Late afternoon
Tips: Canyon reflections
Result: Beautiful canyon scenery
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Chisos Mountains
Distance: 15 miles
Walking: N/A
Type: Mountains
Boquillas del Carmen
Distance: 30 miles
Walking: N/A
Type: Border Town
Marathon
Distance: 30 miles
Walking: N/A
Type: Town
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit early for fewer crowds"
- "Bring plenty of water"
- "Check ranger programs"
Contact Information
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Available Tours
1
Rating
4.8 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
$30 per vehicle