Dominguez Spring Trail

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The route isn't overly strenuous, but it's still recommended that you bring plenty of water for the trip.

Travel along the Dominguez Spring Trail for a fun, but strenuous journey through arid desertscapes to views of the Sierra Quemada and the base of Dominguez Mountain.

Starting at the Dominguez Spring Trail Parking Area near the Dominguez Trailhead Primitive Campsite, head north along the trail through scrubby desert flora peppered by the occasional cactus and desert succulent.

As you mosey along the trail, send your eyes to the northern horizon in search of a moderately sized drainage nestled between a long, towering cliff band and a prominent peak. These features, entitled the Punta De La Sierra and Dominguez Mountain respectively, serve as sentinels taking watch over one of this area's most coveted resources: the waters of Dominguez Spring.

Follow the trail as it wanders across the desert to the mouth of the aforementioned drainage. After reaching its base, prepare to climb gentle grades as you ascend to the trail's end near the confluence of multiple ephemeral springs, dubbed Dominguez Spring.

Dominguez Spring serves as a vital resource for local plants and animals. As such, refrain from contaminating the water by either washing or otherwise entering it in any way. While the spring is known to exhibit relatively high flow during and after rainy times of year, much of the time it is completely dry.

For this reason, make sure to bring all the water you'll need with you from the start. The National Park Service recommends at least 1 gallon per person per day during the hot summer months, as the combination of Big Bend's arid climate and a lack of proper hydration can spell trouble for even the most seasoned runners.