Chisos Basin
A high mountain basin at about 1,600 m above sea level, surrounded by the peaks of the Chisos Mountains. It is the hub of hiking and scenic viewing in the park.
Chisos Basin is a natural basin ringed by volcanic rock peaks. It is home to the only mountain range in the United States that lies entirely within a national park. The basin has a visitor center, campgrounds and several classic trails, including the Window Trail, Emory Peak and the South Rim. Watching the sunset through the “Window,” a notch in the rim, is the most famous experience here. The basin road has sharp bends and steep grades, so it is not suitable for RVs longer than about 7 m. Due to renovation work, the basin lodge and roads may be partially closed, so check National Park Service announcements before you set out.
Opening hours
Open all day (visitor center approx. 08:00–16:00)
Nearby sights
- Lost Mine Trail
- Emory Peak
- Window Trail
- Sotol Vista Overlook
- Balanced Rock (Grapevine Hills)
- Mule Ears Overlook
- Fossil Discovery Exhibit
- Tuff Canyon