10-Day Texas Road Trip Itinerary With Scenic Stops
Discover the incredible sights and scenery of Far West Texas on this adventure from El Paso to Big Bend National Park.
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Summary
- Take a 10-day road trip through Far West Texas to experience its scenic beauty and highlights.
- Explore vibrant El Paso and nearby Franklin Mountains State Park for stunning desert landscapes.
- Visit Marfa, an artsy town known for its unique art installations, and soak in the arts and culture of the area.
Texas is the second-largest state in the US, measuring 261,232 square miles. It’s best seen via a road trip because there is simply no other way to experience the vast open spaces between bustling cities and charming small towns. However, in just 10 days, it’s impossible to explore all that the Lone Star State has to offer. To make the most of your time, focus on one area of the state and dive deep into its beauty.
This road trip itinerary will show you how to experience the scenic beauty and highlights of Far West Texas in 10 days. Departing from El Paso, you’ll drive approximately 783 miles and visit a national park, a state park, and Texas’ hottest art hub. Plus, where to stay and what to eat along the way.
This Texas Town Is Right On The Mexican Border (14 Reasons To Visit El Paso)
Visit the "hidden gem of the world" - El Paso, West Texas! Here's why you'll want to book tickets to this city on the border with Mexico ASAP.10 Day 1: Discover El Paso
Dramatic Landscapes Of Franklin Mountains State Park
Start this epic 10-day road trip through West Texas with a full day in the vibrant city of El Paso. El Paso, Texas, sits near the border with the Mexican state of Chihuahua and is home to a unique fusion of American and Mexican culture. Start the morning with a hike in the nearby Franklin Mountains State Park for views of the desert landscape, then head over to Texas Culinary Institute for an immersive cooking class that teaches you about the local cuisine. Or, visit the El Paso Museum of Art to admire pieces created by local artists.
9 Day 2: El Paso To Marfa
Desert Landscapes & Prada Marfa
The road trip officially begins on day 2, departing El Paso on a long desert road to the artsy town of Marfa. Along the way, make a stop at the infamous Prada Marfa art installation. It looks like a Prada store in the middle of an otherwise desolate landscape, but it's actually a sculpture by artists Elmgreen & Dragset off US Route 90. Take photos at this popular spot and then continue to the town of Marfa for dinner and settle in.
8 Day 3: Soak In The Sights (And Lights) Of Marfa
Unique Art Installations At The Chinati Foundation
With a full day in Marfa, it’s time to be immersed in the arts and culture of this small West Texas town. A spot for artist residencies, it’s common to meet artists as they work in the shops downtown, so be sure to ask them about their work! It’s a unique opportunity to meet the mind behind the artwork. Tour the Chinati Foundation to learn about the artwork and ideas of Donald Judd. Then, finish the night with a culinary masterpiece multi-course meal at Cochineal.
At night, you can see the Marfa lights outside the downtown core. This legend is deeply entwined in the town’s history and is an interesting phenomenon that one has to see to believe.
7 Day 4: Marfa To Alpine
Museum Of The Big Bend & Downtown Alpine
Depart Marfa on day 4 for a short drive to the nearby town of Alpine. Another charming small West Texas town, Alpine, strikes me as a place that is full of local craft shops and handmade products in colorful shops alongside interesting historical sites. Tour the Museum of the Big Bend and dine at Reata.
6 Day 5: Alpine To Marathon
Stargazing In The Desert
Pulling into the small town of Marathon, Texas, after a long drive from Alpine, you’ll immediately realize the popular Gage Hotel mainly comprises this peaceful destination. Staying at the Gage is, therefore, a must while in Marathon. I adore the charm of the Pueblo-style architecture and the available restaurants within the hotel (12 Gage, White Buffalo Bar, V6 Coffee Bar). At night, head over to the Marathon Motel & RV Park for a Star Party, gazing at the desert sky with the help of knowledgeable guides to identify what you see.
5 Day 6: Marathon To Big Bend National Park
Big Bend Hot Springs
It’s finally time to arrive in Big Bend on day 6 and begin exploring its best hiking trails. Make the drive from Marathon to the national park and then put on some hiking shoes and a bathing suit for a warm welcome to Big Bend National Park. The 1.1-mile Big Bend Hot Springs Trail is worth exploring. It’s an easy hike with minimal elevation gain, offering a relaxing view of the desert at sunset from the comfort of the hot springs.
Big Bend National Park After Dark: 8 Things To Do
Planning a trip to Big Bend National Park this year? Then make sure to add some nighttime activities to your itinerary.4 Day 7: Exploring Big Bend National Park
Santa Elena Canyon And Rio Grande
On day 7, you’ll get to experience Big Bend National Park’s most famous landmark, Santa Elena Canyon. While it’s a stunning viewpoint, it’s quite easy to reach, making it suitable for anyone with a moderate fitness level. The hike is a 1.6-mile route that offers scenic views and a chance to be close to the Rio Grande.
- Total Distance Traveled: 403.8 miles
- Distance From Previous Stop: 0 miles
- Places To Stay: Terlingua Ranch Lodge
- Where To Eat: La Kiva, El Gordo’s Grill
From March to October, temperatures in Big Bend National Park can be extremely hot. Always carry enough water with you for the duration of the hike you are planning. There will be no drinking water access inside the park once en route.
3 Day 8: Big Bend National Park To Lajitas
Trail Rides And Zip Lines At Lajitas Golf Resort
Depart Big Bend National Park on day 8 and drive to nearby Lajitas. This small Texas town is famous for having a goat as its mayor. Yes, a goat. Lajitas Golf Resort is a dominant fixture in the town, offering places to dine on the resort grounds and lots of activities to enjoy throughout the resort as well. Zip lining, horseback riding, and bird watching are just a few of the options. Spend 24 hours adventuring and admiring the dramatic rocky landscapes.
Why Terlingua, Texas Is A Ghost Town & How It Came To Be That Way
Discover the fascinating story of Terlingua, Texas, a remote ghost town that has fascinated visitors for over 50 years.2 Day 9: Lajitas To Terlingua
Show At The Starlight Theater
Before leaving Far West Texas, you’ll want to stop at Terlingua. Terlingua, Texas, is often referred to as a Ghost Town, but it’s far from ghostly today. In fact, this small hub near Big Bend National Park is a growing spot for tourism and has many delicious restaurants and entertainment (like the Starlight Theater) in its town center. A former mining town, its reputation as a ghost town was once warranted, but today, it has become a part of its tourism appeal.
- Total Distance Traveled: 476 miles
- Distance From Previous Stop: 12.5 miles
- Places To Stay: Basecamp Terlingua
- Where To Eat: DB’s Rustic Iron BBQ, Taquería el Milagro
1 Day 10: Return To El Paso
Sunset View From La Perla
On day 10, make the long drive back from Terlingua to El Paso. It will take approximately 4.5 to 5 hours to complete the journey, depending on traffic and stops. Upon arrival in El Paso, check into your accommodations, then head up to the rooftop bar at the Plaza Pioneer Park, La Perla, for a sunset cocktail. Cheers to a wonderful end to a memorable and scenic road trip!
