Rafting the Rio Grande courtesy of TXDoT
Big Bend National Park
Big Bend is grand in scope at over 800,000 acres. Take a ride down in the early morning to explore the diverse biology and geology that make for a variety of scenic trails and incredible vistas. Visitors come from all over the world for hiking, backpacking, camping amongst the high Chisos mountains, down by the banks of the Rio Grande, and across the desert brush. Make all the preparations you need for an expedition down to the park: wear appropriate clothing, carry plenty of water, and call the park for more visitor information at (432) 477-2251, or visit www.nps.gov/bibe/.
Big Bend Ranch courtesy of Texas Mountain Trail
Big Bend Ranch State Park
Just west of the national park is Big Bend Ranch State Park, featuring over 300,000 acres of wilderness. A favorite among locals for its miles of rugged and remote backcountry trails, the park is a great venue for mountain biking, horseback riding, and canoe excursions on the Rio Grande. Find out more information by calling the Big Bend Ranch State Park visitor center at (432) 424-3327 or visiting www.tpwd.state.tx.us.
Davis Mountains State Park photo by Chase Fountain
Davis Mountains State Park
Majestic, remote and full of adventure the Davis Mountains State Park high in the mountains of West Texas is a beautiful and historic park. Formed by volcanoes and sculpted by wind and water, the Davis Mountains rise more than 8,300 feet above sea level out of the expansive Chihuahuan Desert.
The state park is 4 miles from the town of Fort Davis at the southeast edge of the mountains. Fort Davis is just 25 miles north of Alpine making it a great day trip.Visitors can enjoy over 20 miles of hiking trails, backpack, mountain bike, ride your own horse, take a scenic drive through the mountains, go camping, stargaze, geocache and study nature.
The Davis Mountains State Park is also home to Indian Lodge. Originally a 16-room hotel when constructed in the 1930’s this unique adobe-style hotel now was 39 rooms, a restaurant, swimming pool (for Lodge guests only) and meeting rooms.
You can also stay at one of the many campsites or rent a group picnic area your next gathering. Find more information by calling (432) 426-3337 or visiting www.tpwd.state.tx.us.