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A beautiful trail alongside the picturesque Mule Ears Peaks.


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Map Key

5.8

Miles

9.4

KM

Out and Back

3,204' 977 m

High

2,820' 859 m

Low

566' 172 m

Up

566' 173 m

Down

4%

Avg Grade (2°)

13%

Max Grade (8°)

Dogs No Dogs

Features Spring · Views

Overview

Roam along the scenic Mule Ears Trail for a wonderful experience amidst a stunning desert landscape further enhanced by the majestic pinnacles atop Mule Ears Peaks.

Description

Starting from the Mule Ears Trail Parking Area, head southeast along the trail through rolling desert terrain before beginning a moderate climb past Trap Spring, Mule Ears Spring, and numerous mountain valleys. Along your journey, take time to stop and get out your camera, as Mule Ears Peaks provides new and equally beautiful photo opportunities the farther you travel.

If you're continuing to the trail's end, be prepared for a steep but doable descent of a hillside to the broad plain below. If you go this far, gaze back to the southwest and enjoy a stunning view of the eastern aspect of Mule Ears Peaks. Otherwise, turn around before the descent for a six mile round trip hike.

Be sure to bring plenty of water on your journey, as Big Bend's arid climate coupled with increased exertion can spell trouble for even the most seasoned hiker. The National Park Service recommends at least 1 gallon per person per day in this area.

Flora & Fauna

Ferns and cattails have been known to grow near Mule Ears Spring.

Contacts

Shared By:

Hunter R

Trail Ratings

  4.1 from 12 votes

#2996

Overall
  4.1 from 12 votes
5 Star
33%
4 Star
42%
3 Star
25%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Recommended Route Rankings

#41

in Texas

#2,996

Overall
27 Views Last Month
3,889 Since Sep 29, 2015
Intermediate/Difficult Intermediate/Difficult

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Photos

Overlook at the start of the trial near Mule Ears Peak.
Feb 26, 2019 near Big Ben…, TX
Mule Ears Peak
Feb 26, 2019 near Big Ben…, TX
Follow the trail stone blazes
Jul 14, 2016 near Big Ben…, TX
Mule Ears on another side
Jul 14, 2016 near Big Ben…, TX
Mule Ears Peak.
Feb 26, 2019 near Big Ben…, TX
Mule Ear Peaks and Trail.
Jul 26, 2016 near Big Ben…, TX

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Weather


Current Trail Conditions

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Add Your Check-In

Check-Ins

Mar 18, 2022
Nick Kepf
Go 0.5 miles beyond the spring for a great view. 5mi — 2h 36m
Jan 15, 2022
Novae Moser
Jan 10, 2022
Novae Moser
Feb 20, 2021
Jason Duncan
3h 00m
Jan 20, 2021
Jon Novak
Enjoyable trail, almost a preview of the Dodson. Nice overlook just before intersecting Smoky Creek Trail. 7mi — 3h 00m
May 14, 2019
Angie Junemann
7.8mi — 5h 16m
Apr 25, 2019
Lisa Howe
Feb 26, 2019
Drew Domalakes
Hiked to Spring and drank water from life straw. Ate lunch at Smoky Creek Trail overlook. Christy, Katy & Mike. Saw raven, mini tarantula. Knee brace
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