Ernst Tinaja Trailhead
Old Ore Road, Alpine, TX 79830
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About the Business
The Ernst Tinaja Trailhead is a primitive roadside campsite located on Old Ore Road in Alpine, Texas, United States. This park offers a secluded and serene camping experience with space for up to two vehicles and 10 people, but no horses are allowed. The campsite provides stunning views of the Chisos Mountains and nearby hills, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts.
Visitors can set up camp next to their vehicle on a small flat gravel space, but should be aware that there is no shade, toilets, or other amenities available. The use of generators is prohibited in the backcountry, and a Backcountry Permit is required to use this campsite. Permits can be obtained up to 24 hours in advance at Panther Junction Visitor Center or Chisos Basin Visitor Center.
The Old Ore Road leading to the campsite is rough and rocky, suitable only for high clearance four-wheel drive vehicles. Regular sedans, cars, minivans, and RVs will not be able to navigate this road. It is important to check with a park ranger for current road conditions before embarking on this journey.
The Ernst Tinaja Trailhead is situated near the trailhead to Ernst Tinaja, a unique geologic feature known for its vibrant orange swirling striations in the rocks, fossils of giant oysters, and a 13-foot natural rock pool called a 'kettle.' Visitors can explore the canyon and enjoy opportunities for bouldering, but should exercise caution as the area can flood during heavy rain events.
With its close proximity to the popular day-use attraction of Ernst Tinaja, visitors are advised not to leave valuables unattended for long periods of time. Expect frequent passing vehicles in the area, as it is a well-traveled spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
Reviews
"The "road" into Earnst Tanaja is rough. Maybe, I should say really rough, or perhaps even dark-side of the moon tough! Roughest road in Texas, might be best. However, it is worth every bang, bump, grind, shimmy, slam, ouch, curse and neck-retching moment. Been there twice, but times in Ford F150 with towing package, but no lift kits, jumbo tires or Rambo off-the-road stuff. Lived thru it, and want to go back again. BTW: "tanaja" means somthing like "water jar". Dave@Texas"
"This was one of our favorite adventures! The drive down Old Ore Road was rough and fun! A 4wheel drive, high clearance vehicle is required for this road. The road was in pretty bad shape while we were there and we definitely understood the reason for the requirements. We actually stopped and aired down our tires to help smooth the ride a bit. . The he hike to the Tinaja was relatively flat, but it was HOT! Very little shade to be found. Thankfully, the hike was short and absolutely gorgeous! Worth the hour drive and 99° temps in April!"
"We were sold when the chisos basin camping host told us to check it out that we would feel like in another planet. Old Ore Road is the access to the trail. It is a rugged dirt road, but we didn’t have any issues with a Jeep. There are signs advising that high clearance 4x4 is recommended. The trail is short and easy but totally worth it! We plan on camping there next time. Very primitive and isolated, but beautiful."
"What a gorgeous hike!! We went all the way to the top of the canyon where it Y's. Another 100yds past the Y and you've got a great view of El Pico and Mexico! Definitely will come back!! Came back again after 3 months. Went to the left of the Y this time where it hooks up with the trail north towards Dagger Flats. Definitely need to do more extensive backpacking here! Found a fun stone window to take pictures in."
"Gorgeous place. Trail leads in amazing limestone mine with wonderful colors. Well worth the drive. Be careful high clearance and 4x4 needed to get thru. I had 8.9 inches and it was sufficient, but road can change after rains. Bring water as the trail has almost no shade and it can get hot"
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