BBNP still has not opened the unpaved roads like River Road. When it does open, its easily driveable in Raptor. Be sure to slow way down at any dry river crossings to avoid any front end bottom outs. There was a lot of rain during the closure and there is sure to be a good amount of erosion.
I’ve driven River Road in well under two hours in Raptor, vs 4ish hours in the ‘93 F250. It’s 54 miles of good backcountry scenery.
Maverick Road if recently graded is like a highway in the Raptor. Remember to be kind to the slower drivers.
Here’s a link to use to keep updated on closures. Read to the bottom to see the road closures.
https://www.nps.gov/bibe/planyourvisit/big-bend-covid-19-status-updates.htm
Also recommended is doing the drive up into the Christmas Mountains. You need to make a reservation here:
https://terlinguaranch.com/christmas-mountains/
It’s easy driving for Raptor...might take a couple of three point turns at some of the switchbacks. If you want to continue the adventure after the Christmas Mountains summit: from the lodge head back a mile or so, turn left at Lake Ament road.
A couple of miles or so in Lake Ament road takes a hard left, when you think you should go straight, there might be a sign. If you overshoot you’ll hit a locked gate. back track and take the turn.
Once back on Lake Ament road wander around heading south. All of these roads appear on Apple Maps, but not always on Raptor nav. Meander your way to the Gate 2 road and exit back on TX 118. You can easily spend a couple of hours back there. You will see how the other 1% live
Keep the speed down on the ranch as people live there full time.
Have a great time with your dad.
