Routes, Drive Times & Road Tips to Big BendBig Bend sits deep in far West Texas. Whether you’re coming from El Paso, Midland/Odessa, San Antonio, Austin, Houston, or Dallas/Fort Worth, choose the route that matches your arrival town and the part of the park you want...
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Terlingua, Texas Event
Big Bend Ultra Trail Race 2026
The Big Bend Ultra is one of Texas's premier ultra trail races, offering distances from 10K to 100K through the spectacular desert landscapes surrounding Big Bend National Park. Now in its 22nd year.
At a Glance
Location
21800 FM170, Terlingua, Texas
Race Distances
100K (62 miles): The ultimate endurance challenge through remote desert terrain.
55K (34 miles): Popular for first-time ultra runners.
35K (22 miles): A solid mid-distance trail race.
20K and 10K: Shorter options.
Runner Experiences
One ultra runner shared: 'I have run the 50k and 50 miler and love the course. It is well marked and has great aid station support.'
Explore More While You’re Here
Big Bend Ultra Trail Race 2026 pairs naturally with some of the most popular destinations in the Big Bend region.
Big Bend National Park
The West Entrance of Big Bend National Park is about 8 miles away, putting scenic drives, hiking, and canyon views within easy reach. From there the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, Santa Elena Canyon, and the Chisos Basin are the usual first days in the park.
Terlingua Ghost Town
The historic Terlingua Ghost Town is just a seven-minute drive away, with nearby dining and sightseeing that bring the area’s mining history to life. The old porches, the cemetery on the hill, and the nightly gathering at the Starlight Theatre are the usual finish to a Big Bend day.
Big Bend Ranch State Park & Lajitas
Big Bend Ranch State Park sits about 8 miles away, and Lajitas is roughly 7 miles down the road, both offering more ways to extend your time in the region. The River Road (FM 170) between them is the drive people plan a half-day around.
When
2026-01-18
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