South Rim Trail

"Read for all the trail details! This is South Rim Loop, a 13-mile hike rated hard (although I think this is due more to the length than the technicality of the trail). The trail is actually a combination of shorter trails starting at the Chisos Basin Trailhead, behind the visitor’s center and store in the Chisos Basin portion of the National Park. You can take the trail clockwise or counterclockwise, but the ranger told me to take it counterclockwise and who am I to not listen to the expert? To follow this route, start on the Basin Loop Trail until you reach the fork. You;ll want to follow signs for Laguna Meadow Trail, which provides you some pretty great views by itself. Once you get to the end of this trail, take the fork towards South Rim Trail. This will lead you to the amazing vistas pictured! Ranger Tip: Instead of heading immediately down Boot Canyon Trail on the way back, walk half a mile or so into the East Rim Trail for some amazing views, before doubling back to the fork. The full East Rim Trail will add around 2.5 miles to your trip, so this is a compromise that will save your legs without missing the view. Pop back to Boot Canyon Trail and follow it until it links up with Pinnacles Trail, which will take you back to the starting point. Beware, there is a fair amount of elevation gain on the way back (considering the whole first half is elevation gain too). I was cursing whoever planned this trail for the last 2 miles or so. That being said, if you are tired already at the vista, you may want to consider heading back the way you came along Laguna Meadow Trail, which will be much nicer to you on the way down. You will miss some of the views of Pinnacles, but it may be better for your situation. "

"The South Rim Trail is a challenging hike that rewards you with stunning views of the Chisos Mountains. The trail is a 12-mile round trip and is rated as strenuous, so it's recommended for experienced hikers. Along the way, you'll pass by stunning vistas, including the Chisos Basin, Boot Canyon, and the Rio Grande. The South Rim hike is one of the most strenuous in the park. You can take either the Laguna Meadows Trail or Pinnacles Trail to reach the South Rim. Laguna Meadows is more gentle, but both have switchbacks. Views of the Northern Mexico mountains can be seen from the rim. Boot Spring only has water some of the year, so make sure to bring plenty."

"Best hike in the park but it is long and strenuous so prepare yourself. We did a 2-3 backpacking trip in this area. You can hike it in a day but it will be 12-plus miles easily. You want to start early."