Lost Mine Trail

The publication, Hiker's Guide to Trails of Big Bend National Park, states that Lost Mine Trail, 5.1 miles, serves as an excellent introduction to the plants and animals of the high Chisos Mountains. It starts at 5,600' elevation and leads upward along the northern slope of Casa Grande to a high point on the ridge separating Pine and Juniper Canyons. At the end of the trail, at 6,850', you can see upper Pine Canyon to the east, and Juniper Canyon far below to the southwest.

Off we go!

On the drive into the Park we could see the Chisos Mountains had 'cotton' on their peaks. It rained last night and it was overcast all day today.

At the trailhead, for some reason, there was this food storage box.

All set...

after you read the warnings about mountain lions. Fortunately we didn't have any small children with us.

The lower part of the trail was arid.

About half way up the trail, looking back to the Chisos Basin.

Near the top, high on the ridge, we found this pine tree that was all twisted from the blowing wind. 

We think this is Juniper Canyon. The East Rim, with clouds, forms a high backdrop behind Juniper Canyon.

That would make this Pine Canyon.

This balanced rock was at the end of the trail.

I liked all the colors in the rocks on the side of the canyon.

Coming back down the trail we could see the Chisos Basin road.