Al Braden Photographer

Casa Grande Peak dominates the center of the Chisos Basin with sheer volcanic cliffs and proximity to the campground, restaurant and hotel. At 7,325 feet, it provides a dramatic backdrop for sunrises and sunsets. These photos of Casa Grande Peak show the dramatic mountain from many angles and different lighting.

The Chisos Mountains form the heart of Big Bend National Park and the most popular location for hiking and camping - especially in the summer when the temperatures remain comfortable compared to the desert below. The Chisos Basin is ringed by dramatic peaks, including Emory Peak at 7,835 feet, Toll Mountain at 7,415 feet, and iconic Casa Grande Peak at 7,325 feet. These photos highlight the central area of the Chisos Basin - most familiar to park visitors.

Relax and enjoy the dramatic Big Bend sunset from the Window Trail. This easy and wheelchair accessible 3/10 loop from the Chisos Basin parking lot provides a sublime Big Bend experience for all ages and abilities. Photos of the Window View itself offer unlimited lighting conditions.

The popular Window Trail follows Oak Creek to its dramatic pour-off - over a hundred feet into the desert below. Framing the Chihuahuan Desert, the pour-off's smooth base and walls give ample evidence of the geologic power of flowing water. It is a 'must do' hike in the Chisos. Here are 17 photos of the Window View Trail - a great hike that leads to the dramatic drop-off.22

One of the premier hikes in Big Bend National Park, the Lost Mine Trail reaches dramatic views of Juniper Canyon and the Chihuahuan Desert reaching far south, across the Rio Grande/Rio Bravo del Norte and into the mountains of northern Mexico. Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930's, its a 2.4 mile out and back hike with about 1,000 feet of elevation gain. Here are some sweeping panoramic photos from the Lost Mine Trail.

The iconic hike in Texas, South Rim is reached by a network of trails from the Chisos Basin, including the Laguna Meadows and the Pinnacles Trail. Combined, they form a loop offering plenty of elevation gain. Plan ahead and bring plenty of water. Here are ten photos from the trails leading to the South Rim area.

Fire in the South Rim of the Chisos Mountains burned 1,341 acres of prime forest, trails and campsites along the South Rim and down into Boot Canyon. Visitors to the Chisos Mountains, campsites and lodge, were evacuated to make way for fire crews and park service personnel fighting the blaze. First on the scene were the Diablos crew from Boquillas, Mexico who work collaboratively with the park service. They were soon supported by the Hotshots and other crews from neighboring New Mexico.