Adventure along the Dagger Flat Auto Trail in Big Bend National Park
Dagger Flat Auto Trail, also known as Dagger Flat Road, is a very scenic graded gravel road located in Big Bend National Park, in the western part of the U.S. state of Texas.
Why is Dagger Flat Auto Trail famous?
The road takes visitors to a remote valley where a unique forest of Giant Dagger Yuccas is located. The area is known for its giant dagger yucca forest at the end of the road. These yuccas can reach tree-like heights of 30 feet (9 m) with diameters up to two feet (61 cm). In late spring, they send up spikes of cream-colored flowers, and each inflorescence can weigh nearly 70 pounds (32 kg).
How long is Dagger Flat Auto Trail?
Tucked away in the Chihuahuan Desert, the road is 11.90 km (7.4 miles) long, starting from the paved Main Park Road. It has a dead-end at 1,070m (3,510ft) above sea level.
Is Dagger Flat Auto Trail unpaved?
The surface of the narrow, winding road is graded gravel and is usually passable by most vehicles, but rain may cause mud and make it difficult for lesser vehicles. Be alert for slow-moving and stopped vehicles. The speed limit is 25 miles per hour.
Can I drive my vehicle on the Dagger Flat Auto Trail?
The road is a little rough at times, but you don't need a high-clearance vehicle. Typically open to most vehicles, this road is also good for mountain biking. Sandy areas or muddy conditions may exist seasonally; rain makes this road difficult to drive or impassable. Please inquire about current road conditions.
Pic: https://thelifeofyourtime.wordpress.com/2014/03/04/big-bend-national-park-day-3-epilogue/