Take your time, walk quietly, listen, and observe. Lots of interesting plants, cactus, trees, birds, animals and insects. This is a beautiful trail that winds down from the Chisos Mt. Lodge into a wooded ravine along, sometimes a creek and other times a dry creek bed. Lots to explore, I'll say no more, or I'll spoil it. Bring water. The climb back up can be strenuous in the heat.
We stayed at the Chisos Mountain Lodge & dined at the dining room which offers a great view of the Window. We were fortunate enough to see a beautiful sunset while enjoying our dinner. The hike down there was just as rewarding!
Really wanted to spot a bear while on this trip, but apparently we just missed it - a hiker showed the ranger a pic about 20 minutes ahead of us... This is the best location for the POSSIBILITY of seeing one... in the meantime, it is a really pretty trail with spectacular views. There are two access points - one up at the Chisos Lodge and one down at the campground... depends on how much you like hiking back up the trail I guess.
If you are not satisfied with the Window view that you get from the pull outs on the road or while sitting on the patio of the Chisos Basin Restaurant, then just be assured that is how you are supposed to feel. Just try this moderately easy hike that starts from the Chisos Basin campground and takes about 2 - 2.5 hours to complete. The only tiny downside is that the hike is uphill while coming back, so carry plenty of water and if possible some juicy candies to keep you refreshed. The trail takes you through the wilderness. Often you are surrounded by tall cliffs with stones intricately carved by nature. Sometimes the unique flora of this region extend their greetings. Don't miss the mountain stream that disappears into the ground like magic and leaves in its wake the mouth of a mighty waterfall, now dry. This is the reward at the end that is a must. Pack some light snacks to munch on while you sit and marvel at the magnificence of nature. It is an experience not to be missed if you are in Big Bend Country. Last but not the least, try to stick together and travel in groups as this is Bear country. One lady who shot off like an arrow in front of us while on our way back, was soon found rooted to the ground. She had seen the frame of a huge bear enjoyin' a break from his evening stroll right in the middle of the trail. By the time, we got to her the animal had disappeared and she refused to let go of our sight for the rest of the way back.
This hike is best early in the morning or later in the afternoon. It is a 5 mile hike with half downhill and the return uphill. The path is well laid out and benign for the most part. Bring water and enjoy the view.
This was a fun hike. We cut about a mile, and a bunch of switchbacks, off of the hike by starting at the campground rather than the hotel. The route takes you through the canyon floor and to a beautiful view at the end.
Any time of day The Window is spectacular. It's a long walk down and back if you want to get up close. This is the number one location in Big Bend when the sun sets. Drive up to the lodge in the morning. Hike to the window during the day. Have dinner at the lodge restaurant and stay at the lodge for the night. Breakfast at the lodge and spend the day on the east side of the park.
The end of the trail is very slick!! Do NOT wander too close to the edge or you WILL slip and fall!The window trail is an easy hike down towards the fantastic end and a sad hike uphill back to camp. Definitely would hike again.
The trail to the Window is easy going since it is all down hill. The trip back to the Chisos Mountain Lodge is a little more work but all the steps make it easier. The trip is a MUST to see the view through the Window and over the surrounding countryside. The rocks and streambeds are beautiful.
We reached the window at sunset, which is an awesome and less crowded way to do this hike. Of course, you will need headlamps for the way back. A great hike for fit kids to join you.