Chihuahuan Desert Nature Trail

Chihuahuan Desert Nature Trail is a half-mile interpretive loop at Dugout Wells, an easy walk of about 30 minutes. Small metal labels identify common Chihuahuan Desert plants as the dirt-and-gravel path winds through lower-elevation brush. The plants are the point of the walk: it is a useful short stop if you want to put names to the desert scrub around you.

The route has about 30 feet of elevation change. It dips through small arroyos, then follows the lower side of the Dugout Wells loop road; a short spur through trees brings you back to the start. Dirt, gravel, and shallow wash crossings make the footing uneven, even though the walk is easy. Slow down where the path dips.

Use the gravel lot at Dugout Wells, about six miles east of Panther Junction on the road to Rio Grande Village. Cross the road from the picnic area to the brown wooden trail sign; the lot holds about eight vehicles. Picnic tables and an accessible vault toilet are at the oasis beside the trailhead, not along the loop. Dugout Wells grew around a spring, and a community schoolhouse made it a gathering place for nearby ranching families. Big Bend is hot and dry, so carry water and sun protection. Pets are not allowed on park trails.