BIG BEND TEXAS Route Updates
Updated January 12, 2026
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posted August 11, 2025 / updated September 22, 2025 / updated January 12, 2026
Multiple Park Closures in Effect
Following the flooding damage in July of this year, multiple dirt roads within Big Bend Natl Park are currently closed.
- These closures affect certain roads on the BDR-X including Black Gap Rd & Hot Springs Rd as of 1/12/26
- There is no ETA for reopening these roads for the winter riding season. Click HERE to check the official Big Bend website for updates as you plan your trip.
- Additionally, Chisos Basin is undergoing renovations and recently suffered a major water issue with critical shortage in effect.
From the Big Bend Natl Park website:
CLOSURES and Updates
Due to heavy rain and flooding events in July, the following closures are in effect until further notice:
- The following dirt roads are CLOSED: Hot Springs Road and Black Gap Road.
- Backcountry drive-in campsites along Black Gap Road are CLOSED. Check at Panther Junction Visitor Center for current campsite availability.
- Old Maverick Road is open, but high clearance and 4×4 are strongly recommended.
- To view weather forecasts for Big Bend and Brewster County, please go to this page of our website.
Facilities:
The Chisos Basin is experiencing a critical water shortage following the failure of the Oak Spring pumps. Stage 3 water restrictions are in effect while repairs are being expedited, with no timeline for restoration. All water has been turned off in the Basin Campground. Drinking water is available at Panther Junction. Public restrooms in the Basin are closed and porta potties are in place. The Lodge is open, but guests are asked to conserve as much water as possible. A charcoal fire ban is in place.
- The Lodge Restaurant is CLOSED. A Food Truck is available outside the main Lodge building.
- Food Truck OPEN Daily 8:00 am to 7:00 pm
- Visitor Centers:
- Panther Junction VC OPENDaily 8:30 am to 5:00 pm
- Chisos Basin VC OPEN Daily 8:30 am to 4:00 pm, closed for lunch
- Persimmon Gap VC OPEN Daily 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, closed for lunch
- Rio Grande Village VC OPEN Daily 9:00 am to 4:30 pm, closed for lunch
- Castolon VC OPEN Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, closed for lunch
- Cottonwood Campground is currently OPEN, reservations can be made at recreation.gov
Boquillas Port of Entry
- OPENFriday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday
- 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
See attached screenshots for reference.
Purchase the official map for the Big Bend BDR-X HERE
Always download the latest version of the GPS tracks just before you go HERE
May 23, 2025
New Tracks Available for Download
A new version of the Big Bend TX BDR-X tracks is available labeled BDRX-Big-Bend-May2025.gpx
This update includes a few minor refinements and a few major updates:
SECTION 3:
- The previous route travelled from Study Butte to Presidio. The new Section 3 bypasses Presidio and heads north to Marfa.
- Fuel, Food, and Lodging are available in Presidio and riders should detour into town for gas if they intend to also ride the optional EXT track into the State Park.
- Section 3 is now 124 miles, but is over 170 miles if you also go into the State Park.
- Riders can get fuel in Lajitas, and must secure their State Park Permits in Lajitas or Presidio prior to entering the park.
SECTION 4:
- The previous route travelled from Presidio to Van Horn. The new Section 4 starts in Marfa and rides down beautiful Pinto Canyon to rejoin the previous segment on Chispa Rd.
- This section is 144 miles and there is NO FUEL available anywhere along this section. Carry extra fuel if your range is close to this.
- In inclement weather, Godzilla Hill is considered impassable and riders should return to Marfa.
SECTION 5:
- The previous route went south from Fort Davis to Marfa, then to Alpine. With the addition of Marfa as a section end, the updated route travels directly from Fort Davis to Alpine.
See attached screenshots for reference. Updated section descriptions can be found on the main route page HERE
Purchase the all new official map (expected late May 2025) for the Big Bend BDR-X HERE
Always download the latest version of the GPS tracks just before you go HERE
November 4th, 2024
Section 3 – Terlingua Ranch Tracks Update
We’ve recently learned that certain roads within Terlingua Ranch lack public easements. As a result, we have removed the Terlingua Ranch portion from Section 3 of the route. We’re exploring potential alternatives, but for now, please respect the private property in this area and avoid riding this segment to help maintain positive relationships with local residents and landowners.
This map reflects the change, and the GPX tracks have been updated. Remember to download the latest route tracks before your trip.
May 5, 2025
Chisos Basin set to close for Renovations August 2025
Big Bend National Park will be closing access to Chisos Basin starting August 2025.
This closure will limit lodging opportunities in the area. Riders wishing to lodge or camp at Chisos may need to detour to Terlingua/Study Butte for motels or camp at Rio Grande starting Fall 2025.
Read the article HERE
Check for recent updates in the park HERE
Purchase the official map HERE
Always download the latest version of the GPS tracks just before you go HERE
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