12 Parks and Trails Within 60 Miles of Marfa, Texas

1. Davis Mountains State Park (20 miles north)

• Why Visit? One of the most scenic parks in West Texas, with mountain views, rugged trails, and a historic lodge.
• Activities: Hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, and stargazing.
• Website: Davis Mountains State Park

2. Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center & Botanical Gardens (26 miles north, Fort Davis)

• Why Visit? A beautiful desert preserve with native plants, scenic trails, and a spring-fed canyon.
• Activities: Hiking, birdwatching, and learning about desert ecology.
• Website: Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center

3. Fort Davis National Historic Site (24 miles north)

• Why Visit? A well-preserved 19th-century frontier fort set against the backdrop of the Davis Mountains.
• Activities: Hiking, historic tours, and wildlife spotting.
• Website: Fort Davis National Historic Site

4. Big Bend Ranch State Park (Eastern Edge) (60 miles south)

• Why Visit? Remote desert landscapes, canyons, and the Rio Grande create an unforgettable wilderness experience.
• Activities: Hiking, horseback riding, off-roading, and river kayaking.
• Website: Big Bend Ranch State Park

5. Madera Canyon Trail (30 miles north)

• Why Visit? A lesser-known mountain trail in the Davis Mountains, offering cooler temperatures and diverse plant life.
• Activities: Hiking and wildlife photography.
• Website: Madera Canyon Trail

6. El Cosmico Trails & Outdoor Art (1 mile south, Marfa)

• Why Visit? A unique outdoor space featuring artistic desert trails and one-of-a-kind installations.
• Activities: Walking, art exploration, and photography.
• Website: El Cosmico

7. Marfa Lights Viewing Area (9 miles east)

• Why Visit? A famous roadside attraction known for mysterious unexplained lights in the desert sky.
• Activities: Night sky watching and stargazing.
• Website: Marfa Lights Viewing Area

8. Pinto Canyon Road Scenic Drive (Starts in Marfa)

• Why Visit? One of the most stunning scenic drives in Texas, leading through dramatic desert landscapes.
• Activities: Off-road driving, photography, and sightseeing.
• Website: Pinto Canyon Road

9. Presidio County Courthouse & Scenic Viewpoint (Marfa)

• Why Visit? Climb to the courthouse dome for an amazing 360-degree view of the desert and mountains.
• Activities: Sightseeing, photography, and historic exploration.
• Website: Presidio County Courthouse

10. Balmorhea State Park (57 miles northeast)

• Why Visit? Home to the world’s largest spring-fed swimming pool, perfect for a desert getaway.
• Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
• Website: Balmorhea State Park

11. Chinati Foundation Outdoor Trails (Marfa)

• Why Visit? A world-renowned art museum with outdoor installations, set against the expansive West Texas desert.
• Activities: Walking, photography, and experiencing minimalist art.
• Website: Chinati Foundation

12. La Junta Heritage Trail Park (60 miles south, Presidio)

• Why Visit? A cultural and historical site along the Rio Grande, featuring ancient ruins and scenic trails.
• Activities: Hiking, cultural exploration, and photography.
• Website: La Junta Trail

These parks and trails showcase the rugged beauty of West Texas, from the Davis Mountains to the Rio Grande. Whether you’re looking for hiking, history, or desert scenery, these places near Marfa offer incredible experiences! 🚀🌄