The Rio Grande Village Nature Trail in Big Bend National Park was our favorite short hike for kids. This hike begins in the southeast corner of the park just outside the Rio Grande Village. Turn left at the four-way stop and drive to the trailhead. This hike is great for seeing wildlife, and has some shade at the right times of day.
Finding the Trailhead
After you turn left at the 4 Way Stop in the Rio Grand Village area, watch for a sign that says “Nature Trail Parking.” It is a quick right after you turn from the stop sign and the parking area is on the left. The trail actual begins inside the campground, but there is no parking there for hikers. Follow the signs to the actual trailhead near campsite #18.
Nature Trail
We love national parks and our primary reason for visiting is to see the wildlife. We saw plenty in Big Bend National Park, and the Rio Grande Village Nature Trail did not disappoint. The trail starts across the bridge and out into the marshy area. There’s a sign that identifies what you might see including birds, snakes, turtles, mammals, and insects.
We saw several interesting birds right on the first platform. In the pools, we spotted two kinds of turtles and multiple frogs. Our boys had a great time looking at every section of marsh to find new animals.
After a short distance, the trail climbs out of the marsh onto dry land. Then it meanders across the rocks toward the river. We saw several burros, their bells clanging, right on the hillside. There were also little “stores” that were set up by locals to sell items. Just place your money in the box and take an item of your choice.
River Spur Trail
We took a short spur trail that wanders down to the Rio Grande and spotted a few giant millipedes, as well as ducks near the river. It was a pretty little green place in the middle of the massive Chihuahua Desert. This was a quick out and back trail.
Overlook
After visiting the river, we turned back to the main trail, took a right, and climbed to the overlook. This is optional, but it gives you a great view across the river into Mexico. We saw acres and acres of green space on the other side. There were a few horses walking along the edge of the river.
The Rio Grande Village Nature Trail in Big Bend looped down off the ridge and headed back toward the marsh. The total distance was only .75 miles not including the spur trail, and the hike was easy. Adding the spur made it almost exactly 1 mile. This is from the sign. Walking from the parking area adds about 0.5 mile roundtrip, so to do everything you will end up walking 1.5 miles total.
