“The Boot” Big Bend, 2020
Today I broke camp and headed down Colima Trail to the Boot Canyon Trail. I decided to return to the Chisos Basin via the Pinnacles Trail, which is the same trail we hiked in January, but just in the opposite direction.
Pinnacles Trail is pretty steep towards the top, with some fairly large steps. I remember when we hiked up it, my thighs were burning since we were carrying all of our water. I think my pack weighed 43 lbs (19.5 kg). This time, I was traveling down (a trekking pole is very helpful) with a lighter pack (32 lbs / 14.5 kg) since I drank almost all my water and I was thoroughly enjoying it. Ideally, you want to finish your hike with no water left in order to minimize weight, and I did pretty good in that I ended up back at the car with .5 liters remaining.
“Trailheads” Big Bend, 2020
On the way down, I passed a lot of hikers going up the hill, and a bunch of them were really suffering. I could fully empathize with them! On the first day, your pack will be the heaviest, but at least your legs are fresh. Anyways, I encouraged those hikers who looked most exhausted and kept on descending into the Chisos Basin. The trail went by quickly and after just ~2 hours I was back at the car.
“Casa Grande” Big Bend, 2020
I really enjoy solo camping, and solo travel in general, and this trip to Big Bend National Park was a relatively safe way to satisfy my wanderlust during this COVID-19 pandemic. I’m so glad I went!
Enjoyed your trip. I have hiked the Boot Canyon trail with family birdwatchers to see hummingbird species that come from Mexico. We failed to take enough water and I remember staggering into the store at the end of the hike and buying a gallon of water to slake my thirst. Saw wonderful hummers. Your photography expertise would have been very useful.
Gorgeous views! I’m living vicariously through your travel/hiking posts, as I’m stuck indoors at work all day. Keep them coming!