Though long, the drive across West Texas is always worth it. Around 4:15 p.m., we turned onto the Basin Road and began our ascent into the Chisos Mountains. The higher we climbed, the desert shrubs gradually gave way to trees, transforming the landscape outside our windows.

Soon, we were navigating the familiar switchbacks up to Panther Pass, cresting the divide and crossing into the Basin. This stretch is always memorable as the road descends into the high mountain valley, with the Window framed perfectly at the far end. No matter how many times we make this drive, it never fails to impress.

After checking into our hotel room—home base for the next three nights—and unpacking, we set out for an easy walk on the Window View Trail. The flat, paved path offers little challenge, but the payoff is enormous. The views down through the Window and out across the desert below are simply breathtaking.

We capped off the day with a simple dinner on our balcony, soaking in views of Emory Peak and the surrounding Chisos Mountains. Clouds obscured the sunset, but the wispy layers caught the fading light and created a quiet show of their own.

It’s good to be back in Big Bend.

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