First-Come, First-Served6/10
South Rim
Chisos Mountains high route....
View South Rim Loop permit details and availability
First-Come, First-ServedThru-HikeModerate Demand
Outer Mountain Loop
Remote 30-mile desert loop.
“Traverse Big Bend on the Outer Mountain.”
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Outer Mountain Quick Facts
Permit RequiredYes
Booking MethodFirst-Come, First-Served
Demand LevelModerate5/10
Key Information
Permit Details
TypeThru-Hike
Booking MethodFirst-Come, First-Served
Demand Level5/10
LocationNPS
How to Get This Permit
1
Create a Recreation.gov account
Sign up at recreation.gov if you don't have an account. Have your payment info ready.
2
Know the release schedule
Permits typically release on a rolling basis. Check the specific release time for your desired dates.
3
Be ready when permits drop
Log in a few minutes early. Have your dates, group size, and payment ready to go.
4
Monitor for cancellations
If your dates are sold out, people cancel all the time. Set up PermitSnag alerts to catch openings instantly.
When to Go
Peak: Summer monthsShoulder: Spring and Fall
Conditions
Summer offers the most reliable conditions for most wilderness areas.
Crowd Level
ModerateAdvantages
- +Longest days
- +Warmest temperatures
- +Reliable trail conditions
Challenges
- !Peak demand for permits
- !Book accommodations early
- !Weather varies
Difficulty Assessment
Physical Demand1/5
Fitness and endurance required
Technical Skill1/5
Climbing, scrambling, or specialized skills
Exposure Risk1/5
Steep dropoffs and fall potential
Navigation1/5
Route finding and trail clarity
Commitment4/5
Difficulty of bailing out mid-route
Best For
Hikers of moderate fitness willing to put in the effort.
Recommended Experience
Basic hiking experience. Start with shorter trails if new to hiking.
The Experience
Why It Matters
Outer Mountain represents one of the great long-distance hiking experiences in Big Bend. The permit system manages use across multiple trailheads and campsites, preserving the wilderness character that makes this trail special.
Safety & Planning
🚨
Emergency Info
Download the PermitSnag app for offline access to emergency contacts, ranger station locations, and satellite communicator tips for Outer Mountain.
Want to access emergency info offline?Get the app →
🐻
Food Storage
Check bear canister requirements, approved container lists, and rental locations in the PermitSnag app.
Want to check food storage requirements?Get the app →
Outer Mountain FAQ
How do I get a Outer Mountain permit?
Outer Mountain permits are obtained through a first-come, first-served system. Use PermitSnag to track availability and get notified when cancellations occur.
When is the best time to visit Outer Mountain?
Check with the managing agency for current season dates. Weekdays generally have better availability than weekends.
How competitive is the Outer Mountain permit?
This permit has a demand score of 5/10, making it moderately competitive.
What if I can't get a Outer Mountain permit?
Cancellations happen daily. Set up alerts with PermitSnag to get notified the moment a spot opens up. We check availability every few minutes, 24/7.
Photography Guide
Golden Hour
Sunrise and sunset offer the best light for landscape shots along the trail. Camp positioning matters for catching alpenglow.
Best Light
Early morning provides crisp air and fewer hikers in your shots. Midday sun can be harsh in exposed areas.
Beat the Crowds
Start early to photograph popular viewpoints without crowds. Weekdays see significantly fewer hikers.
Classic Shots
- 📍Trail marker or sign at Outer Mountain trailhead
- 📍Panoramic views from high points
- 📍Campsite at golden hour
- 📍Trail winding through wilderness
- 📍Completion photo at trail end
Other Big Bend Permits
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