lost mine peak

The trail to the Lost Mine is outstanding and the view from #10 and #11 is incredible. It was 20 degrees cooler at #11 than it was at #9, even though they are only a short distance apart. Take lots of water and good hiking shoes. #11 is a great place for some great photos.

We've made this hike numerous times and each time it's the same hike, but so different. The switch backs make it easy to navigate the half day hike. Once you reach the top you feel like you're on top of the world. Where else can you look down on soaring eagles? Take your time and enjoy the views and different plants and trees on the way.

Lost Mine Peak is not to be confused with the Lost Mine Trail. The Lost Mine Trail gives you views of the peak and the first part of the trail can be used for part of the approach, but does not ascend the peak. That being said, Lost Mine Peak is probably the second most noteworthy peak in Big Bend National Park behind Emory Peak. It's also the 3rd highest peak in the park behind Emory Peak and Townsend Point (highest point on the South Rim). It's big, rugged, and requires some 4th class moves to make the summit and requires a mile (one way) or so of some very difficult desert bushwhacking and scrambling. It's not for the casual tourist. Most will marvel at the rugged and broken north ridge of the peak as they pass by Panther Junction on the way to The Basin. The easiest access to the peak is from the west using the first part of the Lost MineTrail. About 2 miles up the Lost Mine Trail after the switchbacks, turn left (east) and begin your bushwhack towards the Peak. Stay away from the cliffs to the left and aim for the split in the summit. At the top of the split, the true summit is to your left (north). Some 4th class scrambling over trees and rock will get you to the rocky but spectacular summit.Caution: Unless you are a hardcore outdoor adventurer who doesn't mind gnarly desert/cactus bushwhacking through loose volcanic rock with fall potential, stay on the Lost Mine Trail and do not attempt this peak. My rating for this peak would be a 5 if everyone was like me, but for 99% of the rest of you, it's a 1.