Hiking remote trails, paddling on the Rio Grande River, marveling at the night sky, and exploring the distinctive communities of Far West Texas are just a few of the things to do in the Texas Mountain Trail Region. Stretching from Marathon to El Paso and including Big Bend National Park and Guadalupe Mountains National Park, the region offers endless outdoor adventure and stunning scenery. Read on to see a few of the activities the region has to offer and start planning your trip to Far West Texas today.
Views of breathtaking mountain ranges and canyons ... what more can you ask for? Explore the miles of remote hiking trails found within Big Bend National Park and you’ll be treated to some of the most spectacular scenery in the country. Not only do these paths offer unbelievable views, they provide the perfect vantage point to get in some bucket list-worthy birding and wildlife watching.
The hike up the Guadalupe Peak Trail is tough, but the view from the top is more than worth it. Climb the 4.25-mile trail full of switchbacks and other challenges to reach highest point of elevation in Texas (8,749 feet). Enjoy the impressive panorama of miles of high-altitude forests and deserts, a vista worthy of any traveler’s bucket list.
You probably know the Rio Grande more as an international border, but here in West Texas it’s also an avenue for a majestic kayaking adventure. Floating the waterway takes you past rugged canyons and through awe-inspiring desert terrain. Big Bend National Park is a popular launching point to exploring the Rio Grande, and there are several guided tour providers on hand to ensure you have the best time possible.
Behold the celestial wonders of our galaxy from high in the Davis Mountains at the McDonald Observatory. Peer into the heavens at one of the observatory’s star parties, a family-friendly special event during which you’ll observe the night sky through multiple telescopes. There’s plenty of stuff to do during the day as well, such as exploring all the astrological exhibits and getting a bite to eat in the StarDate Café.
Are the Marfa Lights real? If so, what are they? Long have the people of West Texas asked these questions, but the truth is that no one really knows. See this unexplained phenomenon for yourself at the Marfa Lights Viewing Area, which overlooks the old Marfa Army Air Field (where the lights appear).
Although West Texas is known for its remote beauty, that doesn’t mean it lacks its fair share of urban appeal. In fact, the region is a treasure chest of art, culture, and history. Discover the vast colonial history and enjoy the live music scene in El Paso, take in the gorgeous scenery around Fort Davis, and indulge in the arts in Alpine, Marfa, and Marathon. Take a drive along River Road (Hwy 170) and enjoy one of the most scenic drives in Texas, and visit Terlingua, Lajitas and Presidio.
Back in the late 1800’s, railroads reached West Texas creating a need for luxurious hotels to house weary travelers. Many of these fine establishments still exist to this day, meaning a stay at one is like hanging your hat in a museum. Some of the more famous include the Gage Hotel in Marathon, the Holland Hotel in Alpine, and the Indian Lodge in Fort Davis.
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