10 Best Things To Do in Terlingua: Embrace the Wild West
Terlingua, located in southwestern Texas, is a small town with a rich history and unique landscape. From hiking through the Chihuahuan Desert to exploring the ruins of a ghost town, there are plenty of things to do in Terlingua. Here are the top 10 best things to do in Terlingua:
1. Visit the Terlingua Ghost Town
The Terlingua Ghost Town is a fascinating place to explore. It was once a mining town that produced cinnabar, the main source of mercury in the United States. After the mine closed in the 1940s, the town became a ghost town. Today, visitors can wander through the ruins of the town, which includes an old church, a jail, and a cemetery.
2. Go Hiking in Big Bend National Park
Big Bend National Park is one of the most popular destinations in Terlingua. It is home to a variety of wildlife and plants, and visitors can go hiking on the many trails in the park. The Window Trail and the Lost Mine Trail are two of the most popular hikes in the park.
3. Explore the Chihuahuan Desert
The Chihuahuan Desert is a vast, beautiful landscape that is unique to this region of Texas. Visitors can take a guided tour of the desert, or explore it on their own. There are plenty of plants and animals to see, including cacti and lizards.
4. Take a River Tour
The Rio Grande River runs through Big Bend National Park, and visitors can take a guided river tour to see the park from a different perspective. The tours are led by experienced guides, and visitors can see wildlife such as birds, deer, and even bears.
5. Visit the Terlingua Trading Company
The Terlingua Trading Company is a unique store that sells a variety of goods, including cowboy hats, boots, and pottery. The store also has a cafe that serves delicious food, including breakfast burritos and hamburgers.
6. Attend a Star Party
Terlingua is home to some of the clearest skies in the United States, and visitors can attend a star party to see the night sky in all its glory. The parties are held at the McDonald Observatory, and visitors can use telescopes to see the stars and planets up close.
7. Visit the Terlingua Cemetery
The Terlingua Cemetery is a unique place to visit. It is the final resting place for many of the town’s former residents, including miners and cowboys. Visitors can see the graves of some of the town’s most interesting characters.
8. Take a Jeep Tour
Jeep tours are a great way to explore the rugged landscape around Terlingua. Visitors can take a guided tour of the desert, or drive their own Jeep and explore on their own. The tours are led by experienced guides, who can show visitors the best spots for wildlife viewing and photography.
9. Attend the Terlingua Chili Cookoff
The Terlingua Chili Cookoff is an annual event that takes place in November. It is one of the largest chili cookoffs in the world, and visitors can taste some of the best chilies around. The event also includes live music, art vendors, and a beer garden.
10. Visit the Big Bend Ranch State Park
The Big Bend Ranch State Park is located just outside of Terlingua, and it is a great place to explore. The park includes over 300,000 acres of rugged terrain, and visitors can go hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including javelinas and coyotes.
Conclusion
Overall, Terlingua is a unique and fascinating destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or outdoor activities, there are plenty of things to do in Terlingua to make your trip a memorable one.
