— Ernst Tinaja has to be one of the most intriguing hikes and sites at Big Bend NP. It seems that no matter how many times I have done this hike — and once even biked there! — there is always something new to discover. One year, I was even able to see a section of the rocks that had collapsed from the year before. The geology of the area is fascinating, to say the least. The tinajas are spectacular. To reach the trailhead, one needs to drive 5 miles (8 km) down Old Ore Road. High clearance is advised, but even a sedan can make it there; I saw a Prius do that once. Once at the trailhead, you only need to hike about 1 mile (1.6 km) to experience the magic of this place. You will most definitely spend a whole lot longer admiring each curve and rock formation in the area. On this trip, I wanted to show the area to a couple of friends who had never been there. Even though the tinajas are the main attraction, all rock formations will capture your imagination. Also, be sure to look back from time to time to admire the beautiful landscape behind you. That is precisely what the shot above is. You can have a sense of a journey to the center of the Earth with these walls around you. Another photo I have here shows the tinajas behind me.
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