Trans-Pecos Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Trans-Pecos with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover natural attractions, museums, outdoors adventures, food and drink scene, where to stay and more.


Introduction to Trans-Pecos

Trans-Pecos, in Big Bend Country, Texas, is a vast land of rugged mountains, desert landscapes, and unique flora and fauna. The name Trans-Pecos means “beyond the Pecos River” in Latin. This remote area is home to several state and national parks, charming small towns, and historical sites that embody the spirit and heritage of the American Southwest. Trans-Pecos is a must-see destination for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and nature lovers.

List of Places to Visit in Trans-Pecos

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Fort Davis National Historic Site: This 19th-century frontier fort played a vital role in protecting West Texas from Native American raids. Today, visitors can explore the well-preserved barracks, parade grounds, and officers’ quarters, and learn about the daily life of soldiers and their families.
  • Museum of the Big Bend: Located on the campus of Sul Ross State University, this museum showcases the natural and cultural history of the Big Bend region through exhibits of artifacts, photographs, and artwork.
  • The Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center and Botanical Gardens: This nature center offers hiking trails, an extensive botanical garden showcasing local plant life, bird watching, and educational programs on desert plants and animals.
  • Terlingua Ghost Town: Once a thriving mining community, today this small town is a popular tourist destination for its historic cemetery, restored ruins, and quirky art galleries.

Natural Attractions of Trans-Pecos: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Big Bend National Park: Covering over 800,000 acres, this national park is a mecca for outdoor adventures. Visitors can hike, camp, raft, and stargaze amid stunning canyons, mountains, and desert landscapes. Highlights include the Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River, Santa Elena Canyon, and Chisos Basin.
  • Davis Mountains State Park: This park offers miles of hike and bike trails, small lakes for fishing and swimming, and RV and tent camping. Visitors can also tour the historic Indian Lodge, a classic adobe-style hotel built in the 1930s.
  • Marfa Lights Viewing Area: This mysterious phenomenon has puzzled visitors for decades. From a specially designated viewing area, visitors can observe strange, unexplained lights in the distance that seem to move and dance across the sky.
  • McDonald Observatory: This world-renowned observatory offers daily tours and night-time star parties, where visitors can glimpse the wonders of the universe through powerful telescopes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Trans-Pecos

  • South Rim Trail: This challenging 12-mile hike takes visitors to the top of the Chisos Mountains, with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Lost Mine Trail: This moderate 4.8-mile hike takes visitors to an abandoned mine and provides stunning vistas of the Chisos Mountains and the surrounding desert.
  • Davis Mountains State Park Trail System: With over 4 miles of hiking trails, this park is ideal for exploring the unique flora and fauna of the Chihuahuan Desert, with views of the rugged Davis Mountains.
  • Lajitas Maverick Junction Trail: This 18-mile mountain bike trail winds through the stunning canyons and mesas of Big Bend Ranch State Park, with panoramic views of the Rio Grande River and the Mexican border.

Best Things to Do in Trans-Pecos: Activities and Tours

  • River Rafting: Visitors can experience the thrill of whitewater rapids on the Rio Grande River, with tours ranging from half-day trips to multi-day adventures.
  • Jeep Tours: Experienced guides take visitors through rugged backcountry trails in Big Bend National Park, with opportunities to see native wildlife like javelinas and roadrunners.
  • Star Parties: Visitors can experience the stunning night sky of Trans-Pecos with guided star parties at McDonald Observatory or on their own in designated dark-sky areas.
  • Horseback Riding: Many ranches in the area offer guided horseback rides through the desert or the mountains, with opportunities to see wildlife and learn about local flora and fauna.

Week-Long Itinerary for Trans-Pecos

Day Activity
1 Fort Davis National Historic Site, Davis Mountains Scenic Drive
2 Big Bend National Park, Santa Elena Canyon
3 Terlingua Ghost Town, Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center and Botanical Gardens
4 Marfa Lights Viewing Area, McDonald Observatory
5 River Rafting, Horseback Riding
6 Jeep Tour, South Rim Trail
7 Lost Mine Trail, Lajitas Maverick Junction Trail

Food and Drink Scene of Trans-Pecos

Must-Try Dishes

  • Texas-style barbecue: Slow-smoked brisket, ribs, and sausage are staples in Trans-Pecos, with many small-town cafes and roadside stands offering their own unique takes on this regional cuisine.
  • Tex-Mex: Trans-Pecos is also famous for its Tex-Mex cuisine, featuring dishes like enchiladas, tacos, and chile rellenos, often with a spicy kick.
  • Chili: Texas-style chili is a hearty stew of beef or buffalo, beans, and spices, and is a staple of the Trans-Pecos diet.
  • Prickly Pear Cactus: This unique local ingredient is used in everything from jellies to sauces to margaritas, with its tart, slightly sweet flavor and vibrant magenta color.

Local Beverages

  • Margaritas: This classic cocktail is a must-try in Trans-Pecos, often made with fresh lime juice and prickly pear cactus syrup.
  • Big Bend Brewing Company: This local craft brewery offers a variety of beers, including their popular Terlingua Gold and Tejas Negras.

Where to Stay in Trans-Pecos: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Gage Hotel: This historic hotel in Marathon is a popular destination for its luxurious accommodations, fine dining, and onsite spa.
  • Big Bend Resort and Adventures: Located near Terlingua, this resort offers a range of lodging options, including RV sites, cabins, and teepees, as well as outdoor activities like river rafting and Jeep tours.
  • Indian Lodge: Located in Davis Mountains State Park, this classic adobe-style lodge offers comfortable accommodations and stunning mountain views.

What to Buy in Trans-Pecos: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Cowboy boots and hats: Trans-Pecos is still the land of cowboys and cattle ranches, so why not bring home a pair of handmade boots or a classic western hat?
  • Native American Art: The area has a rich history of Native American culture, and visitors can find unique handcrafted pottery, jewelry, and artwork from local tribes like the Apache and Comanche.
  • Prickly Pear Cactus Products: From jelly to margarita mix, this local ingredient is a must-try and makes a great unique souvenir.
  • Big Bend Coffee Roasters: This local coffee roaster offers a variety of blends and single-origin coffees, perfect for bringing a taste of Trans-Pecos home.

Local Culture and Customs of Trans-Pecos

Trans-Pecos is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo settlers. Visitors should respect local customs and traditions and try to learn about the area’s rich history and heritage.

Best Time to Visit Trans-Pecos

The best time to visit Trans-Pecos is in the fall or winter, when temperatures are mild and comfortable for outdoor activities. Spring is also a great time to see the local flora in bloom, although temperatures can be hotter. Summers are scorching, with highs often above 100 degrees, and should be avoided if possible.

Do’s and Don’ts of Trans-Pecos

Do:

  • Respect the desert environment by using designated trails and campsites, and carrying out all trash.
  • Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and protective clothing for outdoor activities.
  • Try the local cuisine and culture by visiting small towns and attending festivals and events.

Don’t:

  • Litter or disturb native wildlife and plant life.
  • Enter private property without permission.
  • Underestimate the power of the sun and the importance of hydration.

Safety and Health

Safety in Trans-Pecos

Trans-Pecos is a remote and rugged area, and visitors should be prepared for outdoor activities and wilderness survival. Always carry plenty of water and supplies, and let someone know about your travel plans before leaving. Visitors should also be aware of the potential dangers from wildlife like snakes and mountain lions, and should keep a safe distance.

Health in Trans-Pecos

Trans-Pecos is a high desert environment and visitors should be prepared for extreme temperatures and low humidity. Stay hydrated and avoid over-exertion during the hottest parts of the day. Visitors should also be aware of the potential for flash floods during monsoon season in the summer.

Getting to Trans-Pecos: Transportation Options and Logistics

Trans-Pecos is a remote area, and visitors should plan on driving or flying into the region.

Airports Near Trans-Pecos

  • Midland International Airport (MAF): 173 miles west of Trans-Pecos
  • El Paso International Airport (ELP): 289 miles southwest of Trans-Pecos

Bus Stations Near Trans-Pecos

  • Greyhound Bus Lines: Station in Alpine, Texas (41 miles from Marfa)

Other Options

  • Private charter flights: Available from Midland or El Paso for travelers who prefer to fly directly into the region.

How to Get Around in Trans-Pecos

The best way to get around Trans-Pecos is by car. Public transportation is limited and infrequent.

Where to Go Next from Trans-Pecos: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Guadalupe Mountains National Park: Located in western Texas and featuring the highest peak in Texas, this national park offers camping, hiking, and stunning views of the Chihuahuan Desert.
  • Carlsbad Caverns National Park: Located just over the state line in New Mexico, this national park offers tours of the stunning Carlsbad Caverns, a network of underground caves and formations.
  • Roswell, New Mexico: This small town is famous for its association with UFO sightings and offers quirky museums, shops, and events for visitors.

Conclusion

Trans-Pecos, Texas, is a vast and unique destination that offers something for everyone. Visitors can explore rugged mountains and deserts, learn about local culture and history, and experience the thrill of outdoor adventures and natural wonders. With its rich heritage and stunning landscapes, Trans-Pecos is a must-see destination for any traveler.



    Alpine
    El Paso
    Fort Davis
    Hueco Tanks State Historic Site
    Marfa
    Van Horn