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A unique 5.6-mile tour that follows the Oak Creek to the overlook called the Window.


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Map Key

5.6

Miles

9.1

KM

Out and Back

5,352' 1,631 m

High

4,452' 1,357 m

Low

914' 279 m

Up

914' 279 m

Down

6%

Avg Grade (4°)

20%

Max Grade (11°)

Dogs Unknown

Features Views

Overview

Meander through the grasslands, trees and creek bed to end up at the edge of a cliff where water drains out of the Chisos Basin. The Window views are breathtaking and the hiking is great with the varied terrain.

Description

This is a beautiful and unique trail that takes off from the Chisos Mountain Visitor Center and ends with a spectacular gem. The trail starts in the basin's meadows and progresses down the Oak Creek drainage.

The creekbed is fun to follow, as it provides interesting built in steps that meander from side to side in the canyon. At the end of the creek, you'll find a rewarding view where water has sliced a narrow window in the Chisos Basin. Be careful at the windows ledge! The rock is extremely slippery and the fall would be fatal.

The return is uphill, so make sure that you save some water for the return journey.

Contacts

Shared By:

Caleb Joyce

Trail Ratings

  4.5 from 109 votes

#80

Overall
  4.5 from 109 votes
5 Star
59%
4 Star
33%
3 Star
7%
2 Star
1%
1 Star
0%
Recommended Route Rankings

#2

in Texas

#80

Overall
42 Views Last Month
7,764 Since Sep 29, 2015
Intermediate Intermediate

3%
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71%
11%
13%
0%

Photos

Overlook at "The Window" in Big Bend National Park
May 10, 2016 near Big Ben…, TX
The Window Trail heading to the main event includes really neat built in steps making this hike fun to crawl over.
Dec 15, 2015 near Big Ben…, TX
Sunset from The Window trailhead
Jun 28, 2018 near Big Ben…, TX
The Window provides one of the most unique sunset views in the park.
May 17, 2017 near Big Ben…, TX
Heading down "the window" trail.
Oct 28, 2017 near Big Ben…, TX
View of the Window. Be careful at the edge, it's a long drop to the bottom of the Chisos Basin!
Dec 15, 2015 near Big Ben…, TX
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