Are dogs allowed on Balanced Rock Trail?

No, dogs are not permitted on Balanced Rock Trail. This is typical in many national parks and wildlife refuges — check for a nearby dog-friendly alternative.

Do I need a permit to hike Balanced Rock Trail?

No, Balanced Rock Trail does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Balanced Rock Trail?

Balanced Rock Trail is rated easy. It is 1.0 miles long with 171 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

Is Balanced Rock Trail suitable for kids?

Yes, Balanced Rock Trail is considered kid-friendly. As always with children, bring water and snacks, pace yourself, and watch for weather changes and wildlife.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

We don't have current condition data for this trail. Check with the land manager before you go.

See Texas trail conditions

EasyOut and Back

Big Bend National Park/Texas

Balanced Rock Trail

Big Bend National Park, Texas

1.0 mi

Distance

171 ft

Elev. Gain

45m

Est. Time

Out & Back

Route Type

Easy

Difficulty

About This Trail

Imported description

The trail goes 2 miles and ends at a rock formation. It's relatively easy to go up a sandy wash surrounded by boulders on the Grapevine Hills Trail. The trail rises to a saddle at the end of the drainage. Follow the signs to find the big window of boulders. This is a wonderful place to visit in Big Bend NP. Kids are enjoying this trail. The trail is located down a road. Ask the parkar what the current road conditions are.

Trail Conditions

Unknown

We have no current condition data for this trail. Check with the operator before you go, and submit a report below if you've been recently.

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Trail Details

No dogs
Kid-friendly

Route Type: Out & Back
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

Managed by National Park Service

Verify before you go

Source of truth

National Park Service unit page
Alerts, conditions, and the unit's plan-your-visit page.

Verify by phone or mail

Operator:432-477-2251
Address:1 Panther Junction · Big Bend National Park, TX · 79834

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Status unknown — verify before visiting

Balanced Rock Trail

About This Trail

Trail Conditions

Trail Conditions

Trail Details

Reviews

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Nearby Trails

Basin Drive

Paint Gap Road

Old Ore OHV Road

Pine Canyon Trail

Lost Mine Trail

Emory Peak - Northeast Rim - South Rim Loop

Other trails in Big Bend National Park

Lost Mine Trail

The Window Trail

Emory Peak via South Rim Trail and Boot Springs Trail

Emory Peak Trail

Boquillas Canyon Trail

Big Bend Hot Springs Trail

Campgrounds near this trail

Hannold Draw

Government Springs (GH1)

Big Bend Backcountry Camping

Paint Gap 4 Primitive Campsite

McKinney Spring Primitive Site

Mckinney Springs

Similar trails in Texas

Aztec Cave Trail

Hill of Life via Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail

Boquillas Canyon Trail

Mount Bonnell Trail

Thousand Steps Trail

Mud Creek Trail