Day 2: Journey from Fredericksburg to Ten Bits Ranch – Scenic Drive & More Wild West Fun

Morning Departure:

• After a good night’s rest in Fredericksburg, we’ll enjoy a leisurely breakfast in town before setting off at 9:00 AM for the second leg of our road trip to Ten Bits Ranch in Terlingua, TX.
• With another day of fun and Wild West-themed stops ahead, we’ll hit the road excited for the adventures to come.

Themed Stops – Wild West Fun Continues:

• Just like Day 1, we’ll stop every hour and a half for stretch breaks, snacks, and more Wild West-themed activities.

Stop 1: 10:30 AM

• We’ll make our first stop for the day with a quick photo op, some fun storytelling, and a chance to enjoy the Texas scenery. The Wild West spirit is still alive as we keep our pink cowboy hats and bandanas on.

Stop 2: 12:00 PM

• Time for another themed stop! Play a quick game of “Sheriff Says” or share some fun facts about Texas history before continuing our journey.

Lunch on the Road:

• Around 1:00 PM, we’ll stop for lunch at a local spot or grab some pre-packed meals to enjoy during our break. We’ll make sure everyone is fueled up for the final stretch of the drive.

Stop 3: 2:30 PM

• Another break to refresh, stretch our legs, and get into the Wild West spirit with a mini trivia game or quick storytelling session.

Arrival at Ten Bits Ranch:

• Around 4:30 PM, we’ll arrive at the beautiful and remote Ten Bits Ranch in Terlingua, TX. This unique, rustic ranch will be our home for the next few nights, offering breathtaking views of Big Bend’s rugged landscapes.
• After settling in and freshening up, we’ll have a bit of free time to explore the ranch and take in the stunning desert views.

Dinner & Campfire:

• Around 6:00 PM, we’ll mosey into town for dinner.
• After dinner, we’ll gather around the campfire for a cozy night of storytelling, bonding, and stargazing. The night sky at Ten Bits Ranch is incredibly clear, making it the perfect spot for stargazing and unwinding after a day on the road.

Day 2 is all about the anticipation and excitement of arriving at Big Bend while continuing to enjoy the fun of the road trip. By the time we reach Ten Bits Ranch, you’ll be ready for a peaceful night under the stars, setting the stage for the adventures ahead!

Nestled in the rugged beauty of the Big Bend region,  Ten Bits Ranch is a one-of-a-kind destination offering a perfect blend of Wild West charm, desert serenity, and modern comfort. Located just outside Terlingua, TX, this remote and peaceful ranch offers stunning views of the surrounding canyons, mesas, and star-filled night skies, making it an unforgettable base for your Big Bend adventure.

Unique Themed Cabins Ten Bits Ranch features individually themed cabins, each designed to transport you to a different era of the Old West. Whether you’re staying in the Sheriff’s Office, the General Store, or the Blacksmith Shop, every cabin tells a story through its décor and design. Each room is filled with carefully curated vintage-inspired furnishings and Western memorabilia, from old photographs and saddle decorations to rustic wood finishes and frontier-era details.

The themes of the cabins create a sense of adventure as you immerse yourself in the world of the pioneers. Despite their authentic old-time feel, the cabins are equipped with modern amenities like heating, air conditioning, and private bathrooms, ensuring that your stay is as comfortable as it is memorable. Wake up to panoramic views of the desert landscape, and step outside your cabin into a scene straight out of the Old West.

Breathtaking Stargazing One of the ranch’s most spectacular features is its remote location, far from city lights, which allows for some of the best stargazing you’ll ever experience. As the sun sets, the sky transforms into a blanket of stars, making it the perfect spot for an evening of stargazing. The quiet, peaceful surroundings only add to the magic of the night, where you can sit around the campfire or relax under the stars with your fellow adventurers.

The Cantina Ten Bits Ranch also boasts a lively Cantina, a gathering spot for guests to unwind, share stories, and enjoy a refreshing drink after a day of exploration. Decorated with rustic flair and featuring outdoor seating with sweeping desert views, the Cantina is the heart of the ranch where camaraderie is always on the menu.

Hiking & Exploring The ranch is surrounded by rugged terrain perfect for hiking and exploring. You can step right out of your cabin and into the wild, where desert trails lead you through stunning landscapes, unique rock formations, and native desert flora. The quiet of the desert is broken only by the sound of your footsteps and the occasional call of desert wildlife, making it a perfect escape into nature.

Rustic Charm Meets Modern Comfort While the ranch offers a rugged, off-the-grid experience, you won’t be without modern comforts. Each cabin is equipped with heating, air conditioning, and private bathrooms, ensuring a comfortable stay in the heart of the desert. The attention to detail in both design and hospitality makes Ten Bits Ranch a truly special place.

A Home Base for Adventure Ten Bits Ranch is ideally located for exploring Big Bend National Park and other nearby attractions. It’s close enough to the action while offering a peaceful retreat after a day of adventure. Whether you’re hiking through Big Bend, visiting local ghost towns, or simply soaking in the desert beauty, Ten Bits Ranch is your perfect home base.

The Spirit of the Old West With its uniquely themed cabins, breathtaking views, and charming amenities, Ten Bits Ranch offers an authentic Western experience. Whether you’re relaxing around the campfire, enjoying the vast open skies, or setting off on a desert hike, this ranch captures the spirit of the Old West in a truly special way.

Staying at Ten Bits Ranch is more than just lodging—it’s an immersive experience in the heart of the Texas desert, where adventure and relaxation go hand in hand, with each cabin offering a distinct connection to the past.

Morning:

• 9:00 AM: After a restful night under the stars at Ten Bits Ranch, we’ll start the day with a continental breakfast provided at the ranch. Enjoy breakfast, coffee and  some fresh air before heading out to explore the majestic Big Bend National Park.
• 10:00 AM: Depart from Ten Bits Ranch and head toward Chisos Basin, one of the most beautiful areas of the park, known for its dramatic mountain views and unique flora and fauna. The drive itself offers spectacular vistas as you enter the heart of the park.

First Stop: Window View Trail

• 10:30 AM: Our first stop is the easy Window View Trail, a 0.3-mile loop that offers incredible views of the Chisos Mountains. This short trail is perfect for stretching your legs while taking in the park’s iconic “Window” rock formation. Make sure to bring your camera for some beautiful photo opportunities!

Second Stop: Lost Mine Trail (Short Hike)

• 11:00 AM: Next, we’ll head over to the Lost Mine Trail, one of Big Bend’s most popular hikes. We’ll enjoy a moderate hike for about 1-2 miles (out and back), taking in stunning panoramic views of the mountains and canyons below. This trail offers some of the best scenery in the park without being too strenuous, making it a great way to connect with nature.

Lunch at Chisos Basin

• 12:30 PM: After our hike, we’ll settle in for a picnic lunch at the Chisos Basin. Relax, enjoy the stunning surroundings, and fuel up for the afternoon ahead.

Afternoon: Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive

• 1:30 PM: After lunch, we’ll take the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, one of the most scenic drives in the park. This road will take us through some of the most spectacular desert landscapes, with several viewpoints and short trails along the way.
  • Mule Ears Viewpoint: A short stop to admire the unique rock formations that resemble the ears of a mule. This is a great spot for some photos.
  • Tuff Canyon: Another brief stop to explore the rugged beauty of this unique canyon carved from volcanic tuff. There’s an easy overlook trail for those who want to stretch their legs.
  • Sotol Vista: One of the most breathtaking viewpoints in the park, Sotol Vista offers sweeping views of the desert floor and distant mountains.

Santa Elena Canyon Overlook

• 3:30 PM: We’ll end the scenic drive with a visit to the Santa Elena Canyon Overlook. From here, you’ll have incredible views of the towering canyon walls and the winding Rio Grande River that forms the natural border between the US and Mexico. We’ll take a short walk to the overlook for even better views.

Visit to Terlingua Ghost Town

• 5:00 PM: On our way back to Ten Bits Ranch, we’ll make a quick stop at the famous Terlingua Ghost Town, where you can wander through the remnants of this once-bustling mining town. Explore the old buildings and get a sense of the rich history that still lingers in the area.

Evening: Dinner & Stargazing

• 6:00 PM: We’ll pick up dinner from a local restaurant and head back to Ten Bits Ranch, where we can relax and enjoy our meal in the ranch’s common area, the Cantina.
• 7:00 PM: The evening will conclude with a campfire and stargazing. The clear desert sky at Ten Bits Ranch is perfect for spotting constellations, making it the ideal way to unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures.

Day 3 is packed with incredible views, easy hikes, and immersive experiences in Big Bend National Park, all while maintaining a relaxed pace that allows for both adventure and relaxation.

Morning: Leisurely Start

• 9:00 AM: After another restful night at Ten Bits Ranch, we’ll enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the ranch. Take your time soaking in the desert morning, with the quiet beauty of the ranch as your backdrop.
• 10:00 AM: We’ll depart from Ten Bits Ranch and head towards Boquillas Crossing for a unique international adventure—the Mexico Lunch Experience!

The Mexico Lunch Experience

• 11:00 AM: Arrive at the Boquillas Crossing on the Rio Grande. From here, we’ll cross the river by boat ($5 fee) into the small village of Boquillas del Carmen in Mexico. Once across, you can choose to ride a donkey or horse into town  for a truly authentic experience.
• 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM: Enjoy some time exploring this quaint village. You’ll have the chance to shop for local handmade crafts, interact with the friendly locals, and enjoy an early lunch at one of Boquillas' charming restaurants. Savor traditional Mexican dishes while taking in the sights and sounds of this peaceful village. (Remember to bring your passport for this excursion!)
• 1:00 PM: After lunch, we’ll head back across the Rio Grande by boat and continue our adventure.

Relaxation at the Hot Springs

• 2:00 PM: We’ll visit the Hot Springs Historic District, where you can relax and soak in the natural hot springs along the banks of the Rio Grande. The 105-degree mineral-rich water is perfect for easing any sore muscles after days of hiking and exploring. With the beautiful desert and river views around you, this will be a peaceful and rejuvenating experience.
  • There’s also time to explore the old Hot Springs buildings, learning about the history of this area and its importance as a healing retreat in the early 1900s. The hike to the hot springs is a short, easy trail (about 1 mile round trip), so you can enjoy a gentle walk while taking in the serene surroundings.

Rio Grande Village Nature Trail

• 4:00 PM: After your soak in the hot springs, we’ll take a short hike along the Rio Grande Village Nature Trail (0.75 miles round trip). This easy hike will take us through beautiful wetlands and offer stunning views of the Rio Grande and the Chisos Mountains in the distance. If we’re lucky, we might spot some local wildlife along the way!

Evening: Dinner & Campfire

• 5:00 PM: We’ll pick up dinner on the way back to Ten Bits Ranch, where we can enjoy our meal in the common area once again.
• 6:00 PM: The evening will be another opportunity to relax around the campfire, sharing stories from our day’s adventure and enjoying the peacefulness of the ranch. As always, stargazing is on the agenda, as the skies remain beautifully clear and perfect for spotting constellations.

Day 4 offers a more relaxed pace, with a mix of cultural exploration, natural relaxation, and gentle hiking, giving everyone a chance to unwind while still enjoying the unique experiences of Big Bend and beyond.

Day 5: Departure from Ten Bits Ranch & Exploration of the Caverns of Sonora

Morning: Farewell to Ten Bits Ranch

• 8:00 AM: After an early breakfast at Ten Bits Ranch, we’ll pack up and say goodbye to this unique desert retreat. You’ll have a chance to take some final photos and soak in the desert scenery one last time.
• 9:00 AM: Depart from Ten Bits Ranch and begin our road trip towards the Caverns of Sonora. We’ll ensure we stay on schedule for our 3:00 PM cavern tour while still enjoying some fun, retro-themed stops along the way.

Themed Stops – Retro Fun

• Stop 1: 10:30 AM: Our first retro-themed stop will be a quick activity to stretch our legs, whether it's playing a classic road trip game, sharing favorite retro songs, or snapping a few photos in fun poses.
• Stop 2: 12:00 PM: Another quick retro stop with light snacks and some fun trivia or music from past decades to keep the energy up as we make our way towards the caverns.

Lunch on the Road

• 1:00 PM: We’ll stop for a quick lunch on the road at a local eatery or grab some pre-packed meals for convenience, making sure we stay on track to reach the caverns by 3:00 PM.

Arrival at Caverns of Sonora

• 3:00 PM: Arrive at the Caverns of Sonora, just in time for our scheduled tour. We’ll take a moment to gather before heading into this stunning underground world.

Cavern Tour

• 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Embark on a guided tour of the Caverns of Sonora ($30 per person). The tour will take you through the intricate and stunning formations of this natural wonder. Marvel at the calcite crystal formations and explore the winding passageways with the guidance of experts who will share fascinating insights into the geology and history of the caves.

Evening: Dinner & Hotel Stay

• 5:30 PM: After the cavern tour, we’ll either dine nearby or pick up food to enjoy back at our nearby hotel for the night. The hotel will offer a comfortable and relaxing place to unwind after a full day of travel and exploration.
• 7:00 PM: The evening is yours to relax, reflect on the day, and prepare for our final leg of the journey back to Dallas the following morning.

Day 6: Return to Dallas – Wrapping Up the Adventure

Morning: Departure from the Hotel

• 8:00 AM: After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll check out and hit the road for our final stretch of the trip back to Dallas. The journey may be coming to an end, but the fun isn’t over yet! We’ll continue with our Retro-Themed Road Trip, keeping the energy high with music, games, and laughs.

Themed Stops – Retro Fun

• Stop 1: 9:30 AM: Our first retro stop for the day will be a quick break to stretch, grab some snacks, and enjoy a game of “Retro Trivia” or listen to a few classic tunes from the past decades.
• Stop 2: 11:00 AM: We’ll stop again for another fun retro activity and a quick break. Whether it’s some classic road trip games or just a chance to swap stories, we’ll keep things light and fun.

Lunch on the Road

• 12:30 PM: Around midday, we’ll stop for lunch at a local spot or grab pre-packed meals for convenience. It’s another chance to relax, enjoy some food, and chat about the highlights of the trip.

Afternoon: Final Stretch to Dallas

• 2:00 PM: After lunch, we’ll continue our journey, making a final retro-themed stop along the way to stretch and have one last bit of road trip fun.
• 3:30 PM: Back on the road, the final hours will give everyone a chance to wind down, share memories, and reflect on the incredible adventures we’ve had together.

Arrival in Dallas

• 5:00 PM: We’ll arrive back in Dallas, concluding our unforgettable Cowgirls & Canyons Big Bend Road Trip Adventure. While the trip has come to an end, the memories and friendships made along the way will last a lifetime.

Our return day to Dallas is all about enjoying the final moments of the trip, celebrating the experiences we’ve shared, and wrapping up the adventure on a fun and positive note.