Davis Mountains Side Trips

Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center

Four miles east of Fort Davis is the CDNC. This desert botanical garden is in the foothills of the Davis Mountains at an elevation of 5100 feet.

Hiking trails, a mining exhibit, pollinator garden and a bird blind are also available.

Mitre Peak

This is where the young cacti are grown for the Cactus Museum Collection.

The large greenhouse is home to many varieties of cacti. Some of the non-native plants require protection from winter weather.

Mining Exhibit displays the history of mining in the area.

Marfa, Texas

Presidio County Courthouse in Marfa, Texas was built in 1886.

We climbed the rotunda stairs to the top.

The cupola has a 360-degree view of Marfa and the surrounding area.

Davis Mountains off in the distance.

The Hotel Paisano is where the cast and crew of Giant stayed during the filming of the movie in 1955.

This is considered one of the nicest hotels in west Texas. Rock Hudson, Liz Taylor and James Dean stared in the movie.

Paisano Hotel Lobby

The newest observation center to view the Marfa Lights. The Marfa (Ghost) Lights along US 90 just east of Marfa have intrigued observers for centuries. We did not return to see them at night.

Roadside mural scene along US 90 at Wyatt Ranch reminds us of where Giant was filmed.

Alpine, Texas

We walked the streets and enjoyed the colorful murals painted on the sides of Alpine buildings.

The Brewster County Courthouse was built in 1877.

This mural depicts famous Texas musicians and vocal artists.

We enjoyed a nice lunch at the renowned Reata Restaurant in downtown Alpine.