Getting here can be half the fun, but not if you don’t plan well. Big Bend is one of the most remote areas of the lower 48 states. Because of this, it can be hard to visit, unless you have a good idea of how to get here and how to get around once you are here. Big Bend is a long way from major population centers, and public transportation connections are limited at best. Many people drive all the way, round trip. However, there are other alternatives that may save time, money and stress.
Drive
Most who visit Big Bend drive a personal vehicle. Public transportation is available, but not always most convenient. From most cities of origin, there is a fastest way to get to the National Park Area, as well as alternate routes that sometimes offer more scenery and less stress than the relentless pace of US 90 and Interstates 10 and 20.
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Fly
Flying commercially will only get you part of the way to Big Bend. However, flying in and renting a car is a convenient and enjoyable way to see Big Bend and the West Texas Mountains.
Train
West Texas grew up around the train, and the train still delivers visitors to Big Bend. Your vacation begins as soon as you take a seat in the city of origin. Please double check with AMTRAK as times may change and schedules sometimes run behind.
Motorcycles
Motorcycles are very popular in Big Bend. The winding mountain highways, amazing vistas and low traffic are a perfect combination for motorcycles of all descriptions. The extensive back roads in the area offer loads of challenging fun for the dual sport crowd.
Drive from Houston
Fastest way to drive to Big Bend from Houston is take I-10 about 200 mi. to San Antonio, and either continue I-10 about 315 mi. to Fort Stockton, or you can take US 90 from San Antonio about 160 mi.
Drive from Dallas
There are three major routes to drive from the Dallas-Fort Worth area to Big Bend, take the fast way, or choose a more round about, scenic route.
Drive from San Antonio
There are two main routes to come into Big Bend from San Antonio. I-10 takes a northerly route to Fort Stockton. You may also take US 90 through Uvalde and Del Rio, which is a little shorter distance wise, but takes a bit longer.
Drive from Austin
There are several scenic routes through the Hill Country going from Austin to Big Bend, but fastest is to take US 290 west through Fredericksburg and Harper, which intersects with I-10 just east of Junction.
Drive from El Paso
There are several routes to the Big Bend from El Paso. Take the direct route, or take some time and see the sights of West Texas on the way.
Drive from Odessa
There are a couple of ways to drive to Big Bend from Odessa and Midland, depending on your local destination.