Experience Texas at its most dramatic and exhilarating in Big Bend Country, the westernmost region of the state. The area is named after the vast curve of the Rio Grande river, which carves up the border between Texas and Mexico. Ride horses through dramatic landscapes and relax in frontier towns steeped in history in one of the Lone Star State’s most enchanting regions.
Archaeological evidence in Big Bend National Park suggests that Paleo-Indians were living in the region from as early as 8000 B.C. Begin your exploration of Big Bend in the city of El Paso, which sits in the western corner of the state. The El Paso Museum of History charts the story of the city, from its earliest indigenous communities to its multicultural present.
Encounter that history first hand on the El Paso Mission Trail, which takes you to picturesque colonial churches. El Paso also features a zoo, several art galleries and a tramway into the mountains.
Relive the drama of the Old West in historic towns with traditional activities and friendly atmospheres. Watch a rodeo in Odessa, stroll around a frontier military base in Fort Davis and step into an old jailhouse in Fort Stockton.
Take time to visit artistic Marfa, a cinematic city known as one of the last American frontiers. The area is most known for the surreal “ghost lights” that glow in the sky after the sun has set on a clear night.
Escape to the wilderness of Big Bend region in its vast parklands. Big Bend National Park is a series of canyons and peaks covered in hiking trails to suit all abilities. In the north of the region, marvel at the strange fossil reef of Guadalupe Mountains National Park, an alien landscape with further hiking and biking options.
Fly into El Paso International Airport from major cities around the U.S. to land in Big Bend Country. Explore the region by car to reach some of its most dramatic locations and come throughout the year to enjoy its numerous attractions.
