STUDY BUTTE TO MARFA – 124 MILES

Departing Study Butte/Terlingua, stop in Lajitas for fuel and snacks before a blissful stretch of paved road as you cruise alongside the Rio Grande on FM170 before embarking on an optional 47-mile detour into

Big Bend Ranch State Park. This scenic out-and-back route ends at the Sauceda Bunkhouse, where you can replenish water or stay overnight, with a reservation.

Highway 169 features a mixture of gravel and pavement with expansive views as you head north. Section 3 concludes in Marfa, known for its eclectic vibe and artsy charm and features a multitude of great lodging and food options.

CAUTION: This section is over 170 miles if you stop in the State Park, so after you leave the Terlingua area, stop in Lajitas for food and fuel, and don’t forget to pick up your Big Bend Ranch State Park entrance pass at the Barton Warnock Visitors Center. Riders coming from Marfa should visit Fort Leaton for permits before entering the park. In either direction, riders can detour into Presidio for fuel, food, lodging, and permits with an entry point into Mexico.