Trails Information
Explore like others drawn to the Big Spring in the past.
As you ascend Scenic Mountain, take in the views of Big Spring and the three ecosystems that merge here. Imagine the many feet that have traversed the sides of the bluff to gaze across the landscape. Enjoy this oasis in the Permian Basin where local history and nature blend together.
Download our Trails Map | PDF.
Trails
This list may not include all trails at the park.
Trails are hiking and biking unless otherwise marked.
| Trail | Distance | Time | Difficulty | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nature Trail | 0.4 mi. | 45 min. | Easy | This one-way trail from the top of the mountain to the lower park road is a great representation of where three ecosystems merge. |
| Scenic Mountain Loop | 4.0 mi. | 2 hrs. | Moderate | Circling Scenic Mountain, this trail gives a bit of a challenge to hikers and bikers while boasting views of the surrounding landscape. |
| Outer Limits Trail | 1.2 mi. | 1 hr. | Challenging | To extend your trip around the Scenic Mountain Loop, take this wilder off-the-beaten-path trail. |
| Sotol Stroll Loop | 0.6 mi. | 20 min. | Easy | The only sotol in the park can be found on this leisurely stroll not far from the lower parking lot. |
Points of Interest
GPS coordinates shown in decimal degrees.
| Point | Latitude | Longitude | 360° Views | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CCC Roman Road | 32.2305° | -101.4850° | View of CCC Roman Road | The CCC constructed this dry-stacked road with hand-carved limestone bricks weighing up to two tons. |
| CCC Pumphouse | 32.2313° | -101.4886° | View of CCC Pumphouse | Blueprints from the CCC era indicate this ruined structure was once a pumphouse. |
| CCC Rock Quarry | 32.2263° | -101.4952° | View of CCC Rock Quarry | The structures found at Big Spring State Park were constructed of local limestone had-quarried by the CCC boys. |
| Historic Carvings | 32.2333° | -101.4888° | View of Historic Carvings | Records of the many people who have visited Scenic Mountain are carved in stone. |
Staying Safe
- Know your limits. Prepare for sun and heat. Wear sunscreen, insect repellent and appropriate clothing/hiking shoes.
- Drink plenty of water. Your body quickly loses fluids when you’re on the trail. Bring a quart of water per hour of activity.
- Tell others where you’ll be. If possible, avoid exploring alone. Tell someone where you are going and when you plan to return.
- Wear a helmet when mountain biking. Check with park HQ to match the ride to your skill level. Wear a helmet to protect yourself in case of a crash.
- Potentially harmful plants and animals may live here. You’ll see them more easily if you stay on trails. Do not approach wildlife!
Trail Etiquette
- Trash your trash. Keep the park natural. Pack out all of your trash and Leave No Trace.
- Leave feeding to nature. Feeding wild animals will make them sick and more likely to harm people.
- Take only memories and pictures. Disturbing or removing any of the park's plants, animals or artifacts is a violation of state law.
- Keep pets on leashes for their safety, and to protect wildlife.
- Don't add graffiti. Protect the cultural and natural resources for future generations.
