Drive from Austin to the Chisos Basin Campground: 472 miles // 7 hours 20 minutes

472 miles // 7 hours 20 minutes Where we stayed: Chisos Basin Campground, Site #27. Reservation was made 180 days in advance since it books up fast!

Chisos Basin Campground, Site #27. Reservation was made 180 days in advance since it books up fast! Weather: Highs of 85-105 (depending on basin or desert), lows of 70

Highs of 85-105 (depending on basin or desert), lows of 70 Hikes we did: Lost Mines Trail, Window Trail, Pinnacles Trail, Emory Peak

Lost Mines Trail, Window Trail, Pinnacles Trail, Emory Peak Additional activities: Terlingua TX, Boquillas MX (bring your passport), back country driving, fossil exhibit

130 million years ago, dinosaurs roamed the area of Big Bend National Park. It also used to be partially under water, which is demonstrated in the unique and beautiful rock formations.

Insane, right? But when you stand in the middle of Big Bend and look around, it makes perfect sense. The desolate desert surrounded by the Chisos Mountains is prehistoric looking and frickin' gorgeous. This was our first trip to Big Bend and it was definitely one for the books. There is so much to do and see and we're going to go back 50 more times before we feel like we've seen it all. Read on to hear about our pitstops, hikes, campsite recommendations, and more.

Our route to Big Bend:

We decided to take our time getting to Big Bend and stop at some spots in West Texas along the way.