Place · 2.1 mi away
Overview
Ward Spring Trail is a short, quiet out-and-back into the desert foothills that ends at a surprising little oasis tucked against the base of the Chisos. Plan on about 3.2 miles total (out and back) with roughly 450–500 feet of elevation gain. It’s easy to moderate—the grade is steady, footing mostly straightforward—making it a rewarding add-on to a Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive day.
What you’ll see
You start in open desert with classic Big Bend flora—creosote and sotol—plus seasonal wildflowers after good spring rains. As you head east, the Chisos Mountains loom ahead; on the way back, Burro Mesa spreads out to the west. Near the end, the trail slips into a narrow ravine where the terrain turns rockier and you’ll make a few taller step-ups/downs. The payoff is Ward Spring: a shady cluster of willows, walnut, and sumac that blaze yellow in fall. Keep going a few hundred feet beyond the first visible pool to reach the dramatic “stone wall” of a volcanic dike—great for photos. Remnants of an old water pipe from the Homer Wilson Ranch hint at the spring’s ranching history.
Expect birds and small mammals around the water. Depending on recent conditions, the spring can present as a small, stagnant pool rather than a flowing stream—still a cool, restful contrast to the surrounding desert.
Trail experience
Traffic is usually light, and the solitude is a big part of the charm. Most of the hike is exposed, so it feels hotter than the mileage suggests. Shade greets you at the spring. Approaching the oasis, footing becomes uneven with some 15–18 inch steps; take your time in the ravine and along the shallow streambed.
Best time to hike
Year-round works, but spring and fall are the sweet spots—milder temperatures, spring blooms, and colorful foliage at the oasis in autumn. Summer is brutally hot and exposed; start at first light and bring more water than you think you need. Morning light favors the Chisos-facing views and the dike wall; afternoons can be harsh. Weekdays are typically even quieter.
Tips
- Continue beyond the first pool to the volcanic dike for the best scene and photos.
- Do not drink from the spring; carry all your water.
- Stay on the trail near the spring—the dense undergrowth protects a delicate habitat.
- Pets aren’t allowed on this trail. No permit is needed for a day hike.
Pros
- Shady spring oasis and volcanic dike make for an unusual desert finale
- Lightly trafficked—easy solitude along a short route
- Visible ranching history with old water pipe remnants
Cons
- Little shade until the final oasis; summer heat is intense
- Footing turns rocky near the spring with a few tall step-ups
- Spring water is stagnant at times and not safe to drink
Parking
Small pullout on Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive; trailhead on the east side about 5 miles from the drive’s northern end.
Caution
Extreme heat and full sun exposure for most of the route; carry ample water and start early. Uneven, rocky footing and 15–18 inch steps near the spring. Stay on trail to protect sensitive vegetation. Do not drink from the spring.
