3-Days in Big Bend Itinerary
An extended weekend serves as the perfect introduction to Big Bend National Park and West Texas. With each additional day, explore hidden gems within the park, experience the charm of neighboring towns, and fully unwind at Camp Elena. To help you make the most of your adventure, we've put together an extended weekend itinerary with what we consider to be the top experiences in this area of Texas.
Thursday
Drive to Terlingua by way of Alpine, Marathon, or Presidio (the River Road). Make sure to fuel up!
Once in Terlingua, pick up mezcal or Texas beer from Shot Time Liquors and groceries from Cottonwood General Store (if needed).
Grill out at Camp Elena, or enjoy a casual dinner at Taqueria El Milagro (BYOB).
Head back to Camp Elena for campfire s'mores and stargazing!
Friday
Grab coffee and a bacon croissant sandwich at Espresso Y Poco Mas.
Pack a lunch and spend the day in Big Bend National Park.
Hike one of the following trails: Lost Mine, Mule Ears, Balanced Rock, or the Window.
Drive Ross Maxwell Scenic drive and eat lunch at the Santa Elena Canyon, or cross the border into Boquillas, Mexico and dine at Falcon's Restaurant.
If you have time, explore the Fossil Discovery Exhibit or Boquillas Hot Springs .
Head to Starlight Theatre for dinner and live music.
Saturday
Option 1: Enhance your stay with a private massage or yoga session, enjoy a round of golf at Lajitas Golf Resort, or embark on a tour with a local outfitter.
Option 2: Hike and sightsee in Big Bend Ranch State Park and Lajitas.
Option 3: Take a day trip to Marfa (see below).
Option 4: Hike another trail or two and see more sights in Big Bend National Park!
Sunday
Have breakfast and brew local coffee at your tent.
Possibly squeeze in another short hike and some sightseeing on your way home!
Day Trip to Marfa
Marfa is a charming and magical town less than 2-hours from Camp Elena. In 1986, artist Donald Judd founded the Chianti Foundation, putting Marfa on the map as a hub for artists, architects, and students. Today, the town has grown to include many diverse restaurants and eclectic boutiques. We recommend planning your trip ahead of time, as most businesses are closed Monday - Wednesday.
Morning | Breakfast & Art Exhibit
Grab a quick breakfast and tour one of Marfa's top attractions:
- Ballroom Marfa
- The Studios - Judd Foundation or The Block - Chianti Foundation
- Prada Marfa & Giant Marfa Mural (in Valentine)
Noon | Tacos & Sotol Margaritas
Enjoy a late taco lunch at The Sentinel Marfa while reading the local newspaper and browsing through a large selection of home goods. Wander across the street to Marfa Spirits Co. and enjoy a Chihuahan Desert Sotol margarita with a side of chips and queso, while viewing the distillery process in action.
Afternoon | Shopping
Browse the shop selections on Highland Street, including the unique hats at Communitie, vast selection of souvenirs at the Paisano Gift Shop, and special vintage pieces at Pronghorn Marfa. If you have time, wander a south into Marfa Brands, The Marfa Store and Raba Marfa to browse through locally-made soaps and other unique finds.
Evening | Dinner
Catch a 5PM dinner at Margaret's to enjoy a crushed olive & pecornio salad and spaghetti bolognese (they don't take reservations, so we recommend getting there when it opens). Grab a bottle of wine to go from Marfa Wine Co.
