RWTR Episode 4 - Lost Maples & Big Bend - New Year, New Trails- A West Texas RV Adventure!

Join us on an incredible West Texas RV journey as we kick off the new year with breathtaking hikes, unforgettable moments, and delicious meals, all while exploring some of the most stunning landscapes Texas has to offer. With Bella Rose, our adventurous Boxer pup, by our side, this adventure is one for the books!

We begin our journey in Katy, Texas, leaving the comforts of home behind to chase the peace and beauty of the great outdoors. Our first stop is Lost Maples State Natural Area, where we settle in for two nights surrounded by towering trees and rugged terrain. The serenity of the park is unmatched as we take on its signature trails. We marvel at the natural wonder of Monkey Rock, soak in the beauty of The Grotto, and challenge ourselves on the East-West Trail Loop. Bella Rose proves to be the perfect hiking companion, enjoying every step of the trails as much as we do.

After two days of exploration and relaxation, it’s time to pack up and head west to the rugged and iconic town of Terlingua, Texas, where adventure awaits in the shadow of Big Bend National Park. For the next five nights, we call the Roadrunner Travelers RV Resort home, surrounded by vast desert landscapes and star-filled skies.

The hikes here are nothing short of spectacular. We venture into the towering walls of Santa Elena Canyon, where the Rio Grande winds through the cliffs, and climb up to Balanced Rock, taking in breathtaking views of the desert below. At Big Bend Ranch State Park, we explore the narrow, winding Closed Canyon Trail, a perfect hike for Bella, as she leads the way through the unique rock formations. Along the way, we make sure to stop at every visitor center to collect passport stamps—a fun and meaningful way to remember this epic trip.

New Year’s Eve is celebrated in true Terlingua fashion at the iconic Starlight Lounge in the ghost town, where the lively atmosphere and live music ring in 2025 in style. But the fun doesn’t stop there. We take a day trip to the Lajitas Golf Resort for a delicious lunch and cocktails, where we meet the town’s quirky mayor, Clay Henry the beer-drinking goat.

Of course, no RV trip would be complete without indulging in one of our favorite traditions: cooking up a mouthwatering steak and lobster dinner at the campground. There’s something special about enjoying a gourmet meal under the West Texas sky, with the warmth of the fire crackling nearby and Bella resting after a day of adventure.

Chapters:
0:00 - Intro
1:03 - Hitting the road
2:14 - Lost Maples
4:03 - Bella running in the river
6:05 - Monkey Trail Hike
7:12 - The Grotto Hike
9:53 - Bella goes on a hike
10:43 - Heading west to Big Bend
12:09 - Stargazing or UFO?
12:50 - Santa Elena Canyon Hike
15:22 - Balanced Rock Hike
18:25 - Steak and Lobster Dinner
19:32 - Closed Canyon Hike
22:17.- Lajitas Golf Resort
23:14 - Starlight Theatre
24:00 - Boquillas Crossing
27:50 - Packing up and heading home

Throughout the trip, we share our honest thoughts and tips on the trails, restaurants, and attractions, offering insight for anyone dreaming of their own adventure in Lost Maples, Big Bend, or Terlingua. From hiking through canyons and sipping cocktails to stargazing and sharing laughs around the campfire, this journey is everything we hoped it would be.

Come along with us and experience the beauty, joy, and magic of West Texas. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to keep Rollin’ with the Rankin’s!

#RollinWithTheRankins #LostMaples #BigBendNationalPark #WestTexasAdventures #RVTravel #DogFriendlyHikes