Posted in Texas
January 12, 2022
Take This Hidden Gems Road Trip When You Want To See Some Little-Known Places In Texas
Do you feel like you’ve uncovered all the hidden gems in Texas? If so, this is the road trip for you. We’re heading out into the West Texas desert – arguably the most remote place in the whole state. Taking roughly seven hours of driving time, the trip takes you to a secluded hot springs resort, the largest spring-fed pool in the world, and several other little-known places. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s go!
Click here for the customizable Google Map for the trip.
During these uncertain times, please keep safety in mind and consider adding destinations to your bucket list to visit at a later date.
Chinati Hot Springs Road, Chinati Hot Springs Rd, Texas 79845, USA
An oasis in the Chihuahuan Desert, Chinati Hot Springs has long been a peaceful respite for weary travelers. The mineral-rich water is approximately 113 degrees Fahrenheit, and seven cozy cabins sleep between two and four guests. Can you think of anything better than soaking all your troubles away while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding mountains? Learn more here.
Pinto Canyon Road, Pinto Canyon Rd, Texas, USA
One of the loneliest roads in Texas, Pinto Canyon Road (also known as FM 2810) begins just west of Marfa. The road passes through Ruidosa, so you can hop right on after you're done at the springs. Powerlines and telephone poles are nowhere to be seen, and you can count on one hand the number of vehicles you'll pass. Eventually, the pavement gives way to gravel, so a high-clearance vehicle is recommended. If you see the road through till the end, you'll come upon the tiny town of Candelaria. It's so small, in fact, that it doesn't have a single business! You'll be hard-pressed to find a more remote place in all of Texas. Learn more here.
Big Bend Ranch State Park Airport, Presidio, TX 79846, USA
Our journey now leads us back towards Terlingua, the proud home of Big Bend Ranch State Park. Not to be confused with the national park of the same name, Big Bend Ranch is far lesser trafficked. That's ironic because it's actually the largest state park in Texas, spanning over 300,000 acres! From scenic drives to multiuse trails to some of the darkest night skies in the state, there's lots to see and do here. Learn more here.
Marfa, TX 79843, USA
The only town on Earth with a Prada store on the side of the highway, Marfa is about as quirky as it gets. The small town of just over 2,000 has become an artist enclave over the years, with a plethora of galleries and installations to marvel at. Marfa also has its very own urban legend known as the "Marfa Lights." Nobody knows exactly what the mysterious orbs are or where they come from, but an entire viewing platform was erected so tourists can observe the phenomenon. Learn more here.
Alpine, TX, USA
Alpine is another charming desert town nestled in a valley surrounded by towering mountain peaks. With a mild climate and convenient location at the crossroads of several scenic highways, Alpine makes a perfect addition to any West Texas road trip. Eat some tasty food, check out the Museum of the Big Bend, stay in a beautifully restored historic hotel, and just enjoy the slow-paced lifestyle that small-town Texas is known and loved for. Learn more here.
Davis Mountains State Park Headquarters, TX-118, Fort Davis, TX 79734, USA
Often overshadowed by Big Bend and the Guadalupe Mountains - both national parks - Davis Mountains State Park deserves far more recognition than it receives. This remote destination offers boundless outdoor adventure, and Indian Lodge, a historic 39-room motel in the park, has its very own restaurant and swimming pool. Learn more here.
Balmorhea State Park, 9207 TX-17, Toyahvale, TX 79786, USA
Last - but certainly not least - we'll make a splash at Balmorhea State Park. Here, you'll find the largest spring-fed pool in the entire world, where you can either swim or scuba dive. Please note: only 900 people are allowed in the park per day, so reservations are highly encouraged. Learn more here.
Would you take this road trip to some of the best hidden gems in Texas? Tell us your thoughts in the comments! For more hidden gems in Texas, check out our previous article.
Address: Chinati Hot Springs Road, Chinati Hot Springs Rd, Texas 79845, USA
Address: Big Bend Ranch State Park Airport, Presidio, TX 79846, USA
Address: Marfa, TX 79843, USA
Address: Alpine, TX, USA
Address: Pinto Canyon Road, Pinto Canyon Rd, Texas, USA
Address: Davis Mountains State Park Headquarters, TX-118, Fort Davis, TX 79734, USA
Address: Balmorhea State Park, 9207 TX-17, Toyahvale, TX 79786, USA
