Skip to Main Content
Road Scholar logo
Texas

On the Road: San Antonio to Big Bend National Park

Program No. 20562RJ
Immerse yourself in the best of Texas as you visit remote state and national parks, explore Fort Davis Historic Site and stargaze at the McDonald Observatory.
WishlistShare
Start
  • 20562-US_TX_BigBend-lghoz.jpg
  • 20562-US_TX_San-Antonio-SanFernandoCathedral-2c.jpg
  • 20562-US_TX_FortDavisHistoricSite-4c.jpg
  • 20562-US_TX_BigBend3-5c.jpg
  • 20562-US-TX-BigBend2-6c.jpg
  • 20562-US_TX-BigBend_Guadalupe-Mountains-7c.jpg
  • 20562-US_TX_BigBendNP_SantaElenaCanyon.jpg
National ParksRegional StudiesOn the RoadNature & Environment
Length
8 days
Rating (4.89)
Activity Level
Starts at
2,749

Enroll with Confidence

We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. Learn more

Protecting the Environment

We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Learn more

8 days
7 nights
19 meals
7B 6L 6D
1
Check-in, Registration, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
San Antonio, Texas
2
Travel to Big Bend Region, Amistad Recreation Area
Alpine, Texas
3
Fort Davis, CDRI, McDonald Observatory
Alpine, Texas
4
Davis Mountains State Park, Museum of the Big Bend
Terlingua, Texas
5
Big Bend National Park, Santa Elena Canyon
Terlingua, Texas
6
Big Bend Ranch State Park, Fort Davis scenic loop
Alpine, Texas
7
Transfer to San Antonio
San Antonio, Texas
8
Program Concludes
San Antonio, Texas
View Full Itinerary

At a Glance

Explore Texas nature and culture from San Antonio’s Riverwalk to the mountains of Big Bend National Park. Cross the Chihuahuan Desert as a naturalist interprets all you see and scale the Chisos Mountains to explore Big Bend’s rugged landscapes. Visit Terlingua ghost town, Fort Davis National Historic Site and much more.
Activity Level
On Your Feet
Walking up to three miles a day; Hiking up to one mile over varied terrain; Standing up to two hours in museums; Climbing two flights of stairs; Getting on/off coach multiple times a day unassisted; No porterage. Elevations up to 7,000 feet.

Best of all, you’ll…

  • Explore the darkest skies in the country in a star party with an expert at the McDonald Observatory.
  • Travel back in time with a visit to Fort Davis National Historic Site.
  • See a wide variety of plants and wildlife as you journey through deserts and mountains of Big Bend National Park.

General Notes

Consider enrolling in "San Antonio: Heart of the City, Heart of the Hill Country" (#22272) before or after this program to extend your exploration of Texas!
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Profile Image
Bruce Martin
Bruce Martin is a native Texan who has lived in San Antonio for more than 30 years. A master naturalist, he leads informative and entertaining explorations throughout San Antonio’s downtown, historic districts, and natural areas as well as the nearby Texas Hill Country. A keen observer of the built environment, he shares his appreciation for San Antonio’s architectural details and public artwork. Bruce tries not to take himself too seriously. He and his wife Barbara live in a 1937 white stucco house.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Bruce Martin
Bruce Martin View biography
Bruce Martin is a native Texan who has lived in San Antonio for more than 30 years. A master naturalist, he leads informative and entertaining explorations throughout San Antonio’s downtown, historic districts, and natural areas as well as the nearby Texas Hill Country. A keen observer of the built environment, he shares his appreciation for San Antonio’s architectural details and public artwork. Bruce tries not to take himself too seriously. He and his wife Barbara live in a 1937 white stucco house.
Profile Image of Natallia Fodemski
Natallia Fodemski View biography
Natallia Fodemski began her career as a group leader in 2009. She started a small business, and led private and group outings including hikes and adventures all over Colorado State, gradually adding other states. In 2019, she graduated from International Guide Academy in Denver with a Certificate of International Tour Director and Guide. She also has years of experience working as a program coordinator at the Center for Creative Leadership and at Colorado College Fine Art Museum.
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Search for a Title
Start Enrolling





Recommended For You