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Texas | Terlingua and Lajitas


Rio Grande near Lajitas Texas
View of the Rio Grande and Mexico in the Background

After a long day that was only half way done Amaris and Fox set out north on the Old Maverick Road from the Santa Elena Canyon Overlook for a twenty two mile, four wheel drive, trek to Terlingua. The route was completely barren with some back country camping along the way for the incredibly adventurous who want to spend the night in the true middle of the desert. While four wheel drive is "required" for the route, and perhaps is, a high clearance vehicle could likely make it through on two wheel or all wheel drive when conditions are favorable. That is not adventure advice by any means and should not be taken as such.

Attempting to cool off in the dry heat of Terlingua at Taqueria El Milagro
Attempting to cool off in the dry heat of Terlingua at Taqueria El Milagro

Once Maverick Junction connected with TX-118 we were headed west and only a few short miles from the "ghost town" of Terlingua. After passing The Local Chapter, which offers Yurts with a few for lodging we arrived, we stopped for coffee where TX 118 and 170 intersect. Absolutely exhausted from the day we wanted to get some food and options were somewhat limited due to the time. The Starlight Theatre came recommended but was not open so we ended up at Taqueria El Milagro for some authentic Mexican food and shade from the blistering sun.

Taking in the unique views of Lajitas in the courtyard
Taking in the unique views of Lajitas in the courtyard

After a bit of relaxing we decided to check out Mel's Place where we would be sleeping prior to nightfall. Shortly after hitting the dirt road we saw a couple of horses running wild and enjoyed their beauty. Once we knew the way we headed over to the Cottonwood General Store for supplies and firewood. With little idea what Lajitas had in store we decided to go to the next town west of Terlingua on the recommendation of a fruit vendor we purchased from in Fort Stockton.

Beautiful roses in the Lajitas courtyard
Beautiful roses in the courtyard

The drive from Terlingua is a quick 15 minute drive through rugged country. We drove past Lajitas along the winding Rio Grande and took in the sites of both the United States and Mexico including horses, cows grazing, and the sandy shores of the border. After the slow stroll taking in the sights we arrived at Lajitas Golf Resort, home of Black Jack's Crossing, which is considered the number one resort course in Texas. On the walk from the parking lot to the restaurants Fox commented a couple times about how nice the sand was and upon looking up the course we learned how highly it is rated.

Inside of the courtyard tower at Lajitas Texas
Inside of the courtyard tower at Lajitas

Time at the resort was spent listening to live music in the Thirsty Goat Saloon and walking around the courtyard that had outdoor seating. We enjoyed the wonderful views, dry air, and reprieve from what had been an incredibly hot day. During the fall season we plan to return for a longer stay, golf, and another adventure in Big Bend National Park, perhaps Big Bend Ranch State Park as well.

Relaxing at the Thirsty Goat Saloon Lajitas Texas
Relaxing at the Thirsty Goat Saloon

We returned to Mel's place and our primitive campsite as the sun was setting. The fire was started, water was boiled, and we enjoyed Mountain House packets for the first time, which were surprisingly delicious and simple to make. Once dinner was done we took in the beautiful sites of the stars and spent time tryin to capture the heavens.

Black Jack's Crossing Golf Course Lajitas Texas
Views of Black Jack's Crossing Golf Course

Finally, it was time to call it a night as we planned to wake up well before sunrise to head to the Chisos Basin and hike the Lost Mine Trail.

Stary night in Terlingua
Stary night in Terlingua



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