Oak Spring Trail

The Oak Spring Trail can be accessed from a trailhead parking area. If the access road is closed, you can park along Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, which will add about 2.6 miles to your hike.

The trail crosses undulating Chihuahuan Desert land before climbing quite steeply up the mountainsides with a series of switchbacks. It features moderately-steep to steep grades as it ascends the west-facing flanks of Vernon Bailey Peak. After reaching a high point, it descends into Oak Creek Canyon, which is clad in trees and shrubs.

You'll enjoy panoramic views of the desert, Burro Mesa, and the Chisos and Christmas Mountains. A key highlight is the less crowded perspective of The Window Pour-off Viewpoint, offering unique views of "the Window" from the back side. The trail also passes through a variety of cacti and wildflowers.

The trail can be steep and exposed, making it very hot in summer. For a more comfortable experience, consider hiking during cooler seasons. During wet periods, a seasonal 220-foot waterfall can be seen at the base of the Window.

No, pets are generally not allowed on trails in Big Bend National Park to protect wildlife and natural resources. Please check the current Big Bend National Park regulations for specific pet policies.

Yes, Big Bend National Park has an entrance fee. You can purchase a pass at park entrance stations. While general day hiking does not typically require a separate permit, always check the official Big Bend National Park website for the most current regulations regarding fees and any specific permits that might be needed for backcountry camping or other activities.

The Oak Spring Trail is considered moderate in difficulty due to its elevation gain and steep sections. While it offers rewarding views, beginners or families with very young children might find the steep grades challenging, especially in hot weather. Hikers should be prepared for an exposed and strenuous climb.

Yes, the Oak Spring Trail can be combined with a hike to Cattail Falls. It's also possible to do a point-to-point hike by arranging a car shuttle, descending from the Window Trail via Oak Spring, offering an alternative and often less crowded route to "the Window" compared to the more frequently used Window Trail from the Chisos Basin.

Oak Spring itself is a permanent water source in the western foothills of the Chisos Mountains, but the spring enclosure is not accessible to the public. Hikers should carry all necessary water with them, as there are no public water sources directly on the trail.

Given the exposed and potentially hot conditions, especially in summer, it's crucial to bring plenty of water, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), sturdy hiking shoes, and snacks. A map and compass or GPS device are also recommended, along with appropriate layers for changing weather.

This trail offers a unique and often less crowded perspective of "the Window" compared to the more popular Window Trail. It provides a different approach to this iconic landmark, allowing hikers to experience diverse Chihuahuan Desert landscapes and ascend through switchbacks to panoramic views before descending into the greener Oak Creek drainage.