Are dogs allowed on Ernst Tinaja Trail?

No, dogs are not permitted on Ernst Tinaja 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 Ernst Tinaja Trail?

No, Ernst Tinaja 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 Ernst Tinaja Trail?

Ernst Tinaja Trail is rated easy. It is 1.9 miles long with 305 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.

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

Ernst Tinaja Trail

Big Bend National Park, Texas

1.9 mi

Distance

305 ft

Elev. Gain

42m

Est. Time

Out & Back

Route Type

Easy

Difficulty

About This Trail

Imported description

A distance of more than 1.5 miles. The canyon is made of highly-convoluted rock layers. A short walk up a sandy wash leads to a canyon of rock layers. The tinaja holds water for the entire year. There are dangers near the tinaja's edge. The deer, javelina, and mountain lions have been found in this tinaja. The trailhead is located off of the Old Ore Road. It is essential that high clearance cars reach this enjoyable trail. There is a primitive campsite.

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.

Elevation Profile

Min:653 ft

Max:716 ft

93 ft

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

Reviews

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Legacy import — verify before navigating

Path geometry came from our pre-launch legacy database. Routes have not yet been re-verified against the operator and may differ from the actual trail.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

Ernst Tinaja Trail

About This Trail

Trail Conditions

Trail Conditions

Elevation Profile

Trail Details

Reviews

No reviews yet

Nearby Trails

Big Bend Hot Springs Trail

Rio Grande Village Nature Trail

Ore Terminal Trail

Strawhouse Trail

Boquillas Canyon Trail

Glenn Springs Trail

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

Balanced Rock Trail

Boquillas Canyon Trail

Campgrounds near this trail

Ernst Tinaja

Ernst Basin #1

Rio Grande Village RV Campground

Rio Grande Village Group Campground

Rio Grande Village Campground, Big Bend National Park

K-Bar 2

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