Trail Overview
Pila Montoya Road is a rugged backcountry route in the El Solitario region of Big Bend Ranch State Park, offering a remote drive through expansive desert terrain. Beginning near the Pila Montoya 1 campsite, the road continues to Pila Montoya 2 at its terminus. This endpoint includes a designated campsite with a restroom and access to a nearby trailhead. Along the way, the route delivers wide-open views and a distinctly off-the-grid experience through one of the park’s most isolated areas.
Difficulty
On this road, you’ll find a rough dirt and gravel surface with sections of loose rock, uneven terrain, and minor ruts throughout. The road can feel bumpy and slower-going than more well-maintained routes. After rain, certain areas may become slick or develop soft spots, especially in low-lying sections. While there are no major technical obstacles, the rough surface and remote conditions can require more careful driving. Overall, this road is easy to moderate, depending on conditions.