Texas Mountain Trail Region

Climb rugged trails perched high in breathtaking mountains. Explore the depths of remote and rugged canyons. Visit one-of-a-kind small towns and enjoy all the modern comforts of the big city. Discover the land of exotic beauty, stark contrasts, endless adventure, and fascinating history known as the Texas Mountain Trail Region. Containing such bucket-list worthy sites as Big Bend National Park and towns from Alpine to El Paso, the region is both a cultural wonderland and an incredible natural treasure. 

Big Bend: The Region's Crown Jewel

The crown jewel of the Texas Mountain Trail Region is Big Bend, a sprawling oasis of scenic valleys converging with spectacular mountains, spanning more than 800,000 acres with over 150 miles of hiking trails. Big Bend is a veritable outdoor playground full of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails that offer majestic vistas and plenty to see and do.

Note for 2026 travelers: Big Bend National Park's Chisos Basin — home to the park's historic lodge, campground, and several popular trailheads — faced a planned two-year construction closure starting in May 2026, but that project was canceled in April 2026 due to budget constraints, and the Basin remains open to visitors. Given the back-and-forth, it's worth checking the park's current alerts before you go.

Immediately to the west is Big Bend Ranch State Park, the largest state park in Texas at roughly 311,000 acres and designated an International Dark Sky Park. It has 238 miles of multi-use trails and 70 miles of unmaintained dirt roads only suited for four-wheel-drive vehicles.

Beyond the Parks

Although you could spend years in these two parks alone, there's far more to see and do throughout the region. Climb to the top of Texas and see all the beautiful fall foliage in Guadalupe Mountains National Park. Enjoy internationally designated dark skies to see stars like no other place in Texas, and visit the McDonald Observatory for tours and star parties. No matter where you are in the Texas Mountain Trail Region, you're never far from something amazing.

Visit world-class museums including the State Historic Site Magoffin Home in El Paso — though be aware the historic home itself is scheduled to close for renovations starting at the end of June, with the visitor's center across the street remaining open for programming and events in the meantime.

History and Culture Across the Region

Along with its natural wonders, the Texas Mountain Trail Region is rich in both history and culture. Follow the El Paso Mission Trail to visit three missions established as early as the 17th century and then head to the museum district to catch a performance at the 1930 Plaza Theatre. Historic sites abound all across the region, ranging from 19th-century ranches and forts to beautiful courthouses and luxurious hotels.

Traveling through the Texas Mountain Trail Region is a treat for all the senses with an endless amount of unforgettable experiences around every corner. Visit the region's website to start planning your next adventure today.