Big Bend’s Elephant Tusk: A Monument of Time

• Egidio Leitao
Elephant Tusk

Big Bend NP‘s Elephant Tusk is a distinctive peak resembling a giant elephant tusk rising from the surrounding landscape. This shape is due to its volcanic origins. The peak is estimated to be around 30 million years old. It has no trails, but it can be admired from at least a couple of well-known trails in the park.

You can see Mexico on a clear day if you hike to the South Rim in Big Bend NP, (Texas). You have unforgettable views, including Elephant Tusk, when you reach Big Bend‘s South Rim. However, a much easier and shorter hike — only 4.8 miles (7.7 km) roundtrip as opposed to the South Rim‘s 12-14.5 miles (19-23 km) — the Lost Mine Trail offers similar views of the South Rim. For example, halfway into the hike, you have expansive views of Sierra Quemada (in the photo’s background above), Juniper Canyon (foreground), and Elephant Tusk (right in the middle). Casa Grande is not seen in this photo, but you can see it from the same trail.

This is my entry to Leanne’s Monochrome Madness #1: The Letter B.

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