Marathon - The northern gateway to Big Bend National Park has been transformed from a remote ranching community to a tour destination in its own right. The Gage Hotel, an eclectic handful of B&B's, and a charming Main Street Shopping district attract visitors who appreciate the laid back lifestyle of this historic West Texas town.

Terlingua Ranch has over 200,000 acres of privately owned land with 1,100 miles of natural surface roads. The Ranch borders Big Bend National Park on the east and Big Bend Ranch State Park on the west. You will find hotel accommodations, a restaurant, pool, airstrip, gift shop, camping/RV sites, mountain bike trails and Frisbee golf course. Turn off of highway 118 approximately 70 miles south of Alpine 432 371-2416

Study Butte/Terlingua Business District - At the confluence of TX 118 and FM 170, Study Butte is just two miles west of Big Bend National Park. There are recreational outfitters, gift shops and art galleries,motels, convienent and liquor stores, restaurants, auto service, service stations, churches, a post office, and a bank (ATM).

Terlingua Ghost Town - Perhaps the best-kept secret about the Big Bend is the view from the porch(s) in Terlingua Ghost Town. Visitors will also find a trading company, art galleries, lodging, restaurants and bars. Terlingua was a mining town around the turn of the century and was the site of the first famous championship chili cook off in 1967.

Chisos Mountains Basin - Is a small community nestled in a beautiful valley over a mile high in the Chisos Mountains. The Chisos Mountains Lodge 432 477-2291 is located here, along with ranger and information station, restaurant, and convenience store. Several hiking trails, from short and easy to long and strenuous, begin here.

Lajitas Resort - Lajitas Resort, located on FM 170 between the national and state parks, has 90 luxury hotel rooms, two full-service restaurant / bars, swimming pool, 18 hole golf course, shops, fossil museum, Big Bend Ranch State Park Visitor and Interpretive facility, and a modern airport accommodating corporate jets. The resort was built in 1978, and has recently been completely remodeled and sits above a historic river crossing that has been used for centuries.  Call Toll Free 1- 877- LAJITAS

Alpine - Is the hub of the Big Bend and a major service center. There are 400 hotel rooms there, along with restaurants, shop and groceries. No Wal Mart! It is the home of Sul Ross State University, and annual events like Gallery Night and the Cowboy Poetry Gathering.