Emory Peak Big Bend National Park
Big Bend's highest point, offering a strenuous 10-mile hike and a thrilling summit scramble with unparalleled desert vistas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds
Emory Peak Big Bend National Park
Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Big Bend's highest point, offering a strenuous 10-mile hike and a thrilling summit scramble with unparalleled desert vistas.
"The final scramble is not for the faint of heart, but the views from the top are extraordinary!"
💧 Hydration is Key!
Carry at least a gallon of water per person for this strenuous hike. Dehydration is a serious risk.
☀️ Start Early for Shade
Begin your hike before 8:30 AM to maximize shaded sections and avoid the intense midday sun.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Emory Peak Summit
Chisos Mountains
Stand atop Big Bend's highest point for breathtaking 360° views of the Chihuahuan Desert and surrounding mountains.
The Chisos Basin Trailhead
Chisos Basin Visitor Center
The starting point for the challenging yet rewarding hike to Emory Peak, offering a glimpse of the adventure ahead.
The Summit Scramble
Emory Peak summit
A thrilling, hands-on climb to the absolute highest point, offering an unparalleled sense of accomplishment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer the Summit: Essential Prep
The Final Ascent: Scramble Smart
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Hydration is Key!
Carry at least a gallon of water per person for this strenuous hike. Dehydration is a serious risk.
☀️ Start Early for Shade
Begin your hike before 8:30 AM to maximize shaded sections and avoid the intense midday sun.
🧗 Summit Scramble Advice
Take the northern route for a more angled climb to the peak. Stow trekking poles for the final ascent.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Proper hiking boots are crucial, especially for the rocky final half-mile and the summit scramble.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Hydration is Key!
Carry at least a gallon of water per person for this strenuous hike. Dehydration is a serious risk.
☀️ Start Early for Shade
Begin your hike before 8:30 AM to maximize shaded sections and avoid the intense midday sun.
🧗 Summit Scramble Advice
Take the northern route for a more angled climb to the peak. Stow trekking poles for the final ascent.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Proper hiking boots are crucial, especially for the rocky final half-mile and the summit scramble.
⏱️ Allow Ample Time
Plan for 6-8 hours for the roundtrip hike, including time to enjoy the summit views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Emory Peak is a challenging but immensely rewarding hike, offering unparalleled panoramic views of Big Bend National Park. While the length and elevation gain are significant, the true test lies in the final scramble to the summit, which requires careful navigation and a good head for heights. Most visitors find the extraordinary vistas and sense of accomplishment well worth the effort, though proper preparation is essential.
"This was a really nice hike to the highest point in the park. We started at 8:20 am on 11/6 and most of the way up we had shade which was really appreciated as it got pretty hot on the way back down when there were a lot more sections of sun. To get to the very top of the peak, there is a short scramble on hands and feet that I was a little nervous to complete but it was totally worth it and manageable."
Danae Chesney
"Hard Trial!!! Go with the proper planned with water and necessary costumes. Once you reach the peak it’s an awesome movie you feel like standing above all the big bend peaks. That feel is extraordinary.
Well worth it. Took us just under 8 hours including the hour plus we spent at the top. You definitely could do this in under 6 but we took it at a slow and steady pace.
The final half mile of the trail is very technical with lots of rocks to navigate. We had to stow our trekking poles and slowly work our way to the top.
Once at the top it took us a little to figure out what way to go to climb to the peak.
But going around the right (northern) side seemed the best way to go. We were able to climb at more of an angle instead of going straight up the center which was more of a vertical climb.
I was able to do it with my relatively large backpack. It definitely isn't for the faint of heart but the
"scramble" up was worth it. The hardest part was finding a way up.
Also it's the right (northern) peak not the left (southern) peak."
Poovalagan Jagadeeswaran
"Where are we going? See the highest part of that mountain? That's where!
What an outstanding hike... but be prepared! Here's what you need to know.
#1. You're gonna travel about 11 miles
#2. The elevation gain is about 2500 feet
#3. It's a there and back trail so the elevation loss will be about 2500 feet
#4. It will take around 6 hours... give or take an hour
#5. To get to the peak can be confusing at the end... you will have to do a little climbing.
So yeah... be ready for an amazing and beautiful hike. It's a crazy journey that can be pretty challenging if you do not realize what you are getting into.
Water, food, and a way to protect yourself from the sun are super important things and trekking poles can be pretty helpful coming back down.
Be aware of your surroundings and keep the park clean!"
eddie gramma
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Emory Peak trailhead is located in the Chisos Basin, accessible from the park's main entrance. You'll typically start from the Chisos Basin Visitor Center. The drive into the Chisos Basin itself offers scenic views.
Yes, there is parking available at the Chisos Basin Visitor Center, which serves as the starting point for the Emory Peak trail. Parking can fill up quickly, especially during peak season, so arriving early is recommended.
No, Emory Peak is only accessible by hiking. The trail is a significant trek, and vehicles cannot reach the summit.
The hike to Emory Peak is approximately 10.4 to 11 miles roundtrip, depending on the exact route taken.
Most hikers take between 6 to 8 hours to complete the Emory Peak hike, including time spent at the summit. Some fit hikers can do it faster, while others may take longer.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, a specific permit is not required for the day hike to Emory Peak. However, Big Bend National Park does have an entrance fee. If you plan to backpack in the Chisos Mountains, backcountry permits are necessary.
The entrance fee for Big Bend National Park is typically per vehicle and valid for seven days. Check the official NPS website for the most current pricing.
The Emory Peak trail is within Big Bend National Park, so the park's entrance fee covers access. There are no additional trail fees.
Big Bend National Park is generally open 24 hours a day, year-round. However, visitor centers and facilities have specific operating hours. It's best to check the NPS website for current hours.
Tickets are not required for Emory Peak as it's a hiking trail. You pay the park entrance fee upon arrival. Booking accommodations or campsites in advance is highly recommended.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Emory Peak hike has an elevation gain of approximately 2,500 feet. This significant gain contributes to its challenging nature.
Yes, Emory Peak is considered a hard and strenuous hike due to its length, elevation gain, and the technical scramble at the summit. It's recommended for experienced hikers.
The trail features varied terrain, including rocky paths, switchbacks, and a final scramble over boulders to reach the summit. The last half-mile is particularly technical.
The final scramble to the summit requires careful footing and can be intimidating. While manageable for many, it's not recommended for those with a fear of heights or who are not comfortable with climbing.
Restrooms are available at the Chisos Basin Visitor Center, which is the trailhead. There are no restrooms along the trail itself, so plan accordingly.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers unparalleled panoramic views of Big Bend National Park. The changing desert landscapes and the rugged Chisos Mountains provide stunning backdrops throughout the hike. 
Early morning light provides beautiful soft illumination and fewer harsh shadows. Late afternoon can also offer dramatic lighting, but be mindful of your descent time.
Drone usage is restricted in all U.S. National Parks, including Big Bend. You cannot fly drones over Emory Peak or within the park boundaries.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive vistas. Consider a telephoto lens for distant mountain details. A sturdy tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions or long exposures.
Yes, numerous points along the trail offer excellent photo opportunities, showcasing the vastness of the Chisos Mountains and the desert below. Keep an eye out for scenic overlooks.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
+1💑 Couples Seeking Adventure
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Emory Peak Hike: A Comprehensive Guide
+1As you ascend, the landscape transforms, offering increasingly dramatic views of the Chisos Mountains and the vast Chihuahuan Desert. The final half-mile to the summit is particularly technical, requiring hikers to navigate a scramble of boulders. This section is often described as a 'climb' rather than a walk, and it's where many visitors stow their trekking poles to use their hands for balance and ascent. While it can be intimidating, the effort is widely considered worth it for the unparalleled panoramic vistas from the top.
Key considerations for this hike include:
* Water: Carry at least one gallon of water per person. Dehydration is a serious risk in this arid environment.
* Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support are essential for the rocky terrain and scramble.
* Sun Protection: Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. The trail has minimal tree cover for much of its length.
* Timing: Allow 6-8 hours for the hike, including ample time at the summit.
* Summit Scramble: Be prepared for a hands-on climb. Taking the northern route is often advised for a more manageable ascent angle.
Navigating the Summit Scramble
Reddit users and social media creators offer practical advice for tackling the scramble. A common tip is to take the northern route, which tends to offer a more angled ascent compared to a direct, vertical climb up the center. This can make the climb feel more manageable and less daunting. It's also advisable to stow trekking poles before beginning the scramble, as they can hinder your movement and balance.
While the scramble is challenging, the sense of accomplishment and the extraordinary views from the absolute highest point are universally praised. It's a moment that many describe as feeling like you're standing above all the other peaks in Big Bend. Proper preparation, a cautious approach, and a willingness to embrace the climb are key to successfully reaching the Emory Peak summit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit