Texas
Hiking in the Unspoiled Beauty of Big Bend
Program No. 11958RJ
From desert vegetation to the lush floodplains of the Rio Grande, from dinosaur fossils to Native American pictographs, come hike and learn the story of Big Bend, in Texas.
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Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
800-454-5768
Select your type of room
Price will update based on selection
Prices displayed below are based on per person,doubleoccupancy.
Activity Level:
Outdoor: Spirited (7)
DATES
& starting prices
PRICES
Feb 2 - Feb 7, 2025
Starting at
1,899Activity Level:
Outdoor: Spirited (7)
DATES
& starting prices
PRICES
Dec 8 - Dec 13, 2024
Starting at
2,199Feb 2 - Feb 7, 2025
Starting at
2,249Oct 12 - Oct 17, 2025
Starting at
2,249Nov 9 - Nov 14, 2025
Starting at
2,249Nov 30 - Dec 5, 2025
Starting at
2,249Activity Level:
Outdoor: Challenging (3)
DATES
& starting prices
PRICES
Activity Level:
Outdoor: Challenging (3)
DATES
& starting prices
PRICES
Jan 12 - Jan 17, 2025
Starting at
2,249Feb 9 - Feb 14, 2025
Starting at
2,249Dec 7 - Dec 12, 2025
Starting at
2,249Not seeing the date you're looking for?
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This date is available to book as a private experience for your group!
6 days
5 nights
14 meals
5B 4L 5D
1
Check-in, Registration, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Big Bend Country
2
Hot Springs, Panther Junction
Big Bend Country
3
Hiking "The Window" & Lost Mine Overlook
Big Bend Country
4
Fossil Exhibit, Upper Burro Mesa, Santa Elena
Big Bend Country
5
High Chisos Mountain Loop Full Day Hike
Big Bend Country
6
Program Concludes
Big Bend Country
At a Glance
Hike your way through Big Bend National Park, one of the most remote, wildly beautiful and peaceful places in America. Geological history spanning millions of years and a discussion of the “brief” era of the dinosaurs in Texas will add to the appreciation and mystique of what the early Spanish explorers called “El Despoblado” — the empty land.
Activity Level
Varies by date
Varies by date. Outdoor: Challenging – Hiking 7-12 miles daily over varied terrain. Outdoor: Spirited – Hiking up to six miles daily over varied terrain. Elevations up to 6,850 feet.
Micro Group
These adventures feature our smallest group size, with 12 participants or fewer.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Get a closer look at the small but vibrant town of Marathon, Texas, surrounded by mountains and sitting just above 4,000 feet, and learn about the community, culture and industries that have shaped this diverse west Texas town.
- Hike through three ecosystems, from mountain peaks to desert springs and river trails.
- See Native American rock art and soak in the Hot Springs after a 6-mile hike along the Texas Rio Grande.
General Notes
Listening devices are available.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Joe Lorenz
Joe Lorenz hails from northern Wisconsin. He attended St. Norbert college, graduating in 2015 in biology. After working a year at the University of Colorado-Boulder, he completed a Master of Science in Molecular Biology at the University of Copenhagen, Denmark. He completed wilderness medicine training through NOLS in Lander, Wyoming, earning his EMT license, which led him to Terlingua, Texas, working as an EMT and river guide. Since then, he has worked as a football coach, substitute teacher, wildland firefighter, and in safety management.
Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.
Joe Lorenz
View biography
Joe Lorenz hails from northern Wisconsin. He attended St. Norbert college, graduating in 2015 in biology. After working a year at the University of Colorado-Boulder, he completed a Master of Science in Molecular Biology at the University of Copenhagen, Denmark. He completed wilderness medicine training through NOLS in Lander, Wyoming, earning his EMT license, which led him to Terlingua, Texas, working as an EMT and river guide. Since then, he has worked as a football coach, substitute teacher, wildland firefighter, and in safety management.
Suggested Reading List
(10 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Hiking in the Unspoiled Beauty of Big Bend
Program Number: 11958
Hiking Big Bend National Park
Comprehensive guide to 44 most popular hikes in the national park as well as three hikes in Big Bend Ranch State Park
Naturalist's Big Bend
An introduction to the trees, shrubs, wildflowers, cacti, mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish and insects of the Big Bend.
Big Bend, A Homesteader's Story
A story of the Langfords' life in the rugged and spectacularly beautiful country which they came to call their own. This account is told with the help of Fred Gipson, author of Old Yeller.
Big Bend, The Story Behind The Scenery
This book is dedicated to all who find nature not an adversary to conquer and destroy, but a storehouse of infinite knowledge and experience linking man to all things past and present. They know conserving the natural environment is essential to our future well being.
Big Bend Vista, A Geological Exploration of the Big Bend
The Big Bend, A History of the Last Texas Frontier
A study of four centuries of human society-Indian, Spanish, Mexican, Texas and American - in a region remote and little known.
God's Country or Devil's Playground
In this anthology of nature writing, Barney Nelson gathers nearly sixty literary perspectives on the landscape and life of the Big Bend region, broadly defined as Trans-Pecos Texas and northern Chihuahua, Mexico. In addition to Leopold and Webb, the collection includes such well-known writers as Edward Abbey, Mary Austin, Roy Bedichek, and Frederick Olmsted, as well as a wide range of voices that includes explorers, trappers, cowboys, ranch wives, curanderos, college presidents, scientists, locals, tourists, historians, avisadores, and waitresses. Following a personal introduction by Barney Nelson, the pieces are grouped thematically to highlight the distinctive ways in which writers have responded to the Big Bend.
I'll Gather My Geese
The New York Times identified Hallie Stillwell (1897-1997) as a "rancher and a Texas legend."
At the age of nineteen, Hallie decided to take a job teaching school in the remote border town of Presidio, Texas. Her father thought it a dangerous proposition and told her she was getting into a wild goose chase. She responded, "Then I'll gather my geese." After teaching for a year, she got a proposal from an old-fashioned rancher twice her age, Roy Stillwell. Hallie's escapades as a bride in the rough environs of the Big Bend ranch have appealed to thousands of readers.
The Story of Big Bend National Park
This book offers a comprehensive, highly readable history of the park from its founding in 1944 up to the present.
Beneath the Window: Early Ranch Life in the Big Bend Country
A memoir by Patricia Wilson Clothier. Before it became a national park, the Big Bend was home to a number of ranches and mining operations. On the Wilson ranch, which stood at the center of the current park, Mrs. Clothier spent her youth exploring the wonders of ranch life in the Chisos. Patricia's richly detailed memories, coupled with a backdrop of Depression era hardships, bring the Big Bend to life in this original and vivid description of a childhood spent "Beneath the Window".
Program
At a Glance
Duration
6 days
Program Begins
Big Bend Country
Program Concludes
Big Bend Country
Group Type
Micro Group
Meals
14
| 5B |
4L |
5D |
Activity Level
Hike your way through Big Bend National Park, one of the most remote, wildly beautiful and peaceful places in America. Geological history spanning millions of years and a discussion of the “brief” era of the dinosaurs in Texas will add to the appreciation and mystique of what the early Spanish explorers called “El Despoblado” — the empty land.)
Best of all, you'll...
- Get a closer look at the small but vibrant town of Marathon, Texas, surrounded by mountains and sitting just above 4,000 feet, and learn about the community, culture and industries that have shaped this diverse west Texas town.
- Hike through three ecosystems, from mountain peaks to desert springs and river trails.
- See Native American rock art and soak in the Hot Springs after a 6-mile hike along the Texas Rio Grande.
General Notes
Listening devices are available.
Featured Expert
Joe Lorenz
Joe Lorenz hails from northern Wisconsin. He attended St. Norbert college, graduating in 2015 in biology. After working a year at the University of Colorado-Boulder, he completed a Master of Science in Molecular Biology at the University of Copenhagen, Denmark. He completed wilderness medicine training through NOLS in Lander, Wyoming, earning his EMT license, which led him to Terlingua, Texas, working as an EMT and river guide. Since then, he has worked as a football coach, substitute teacher, wildland firefighter, and in safety management.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Activity Level
Outdoor: Spirited
Varies by date
Micro Group
(12 Max)
These adventures feature our smallest group size, with 12 participants or fewer.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List
(10 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call
800-454-5768
Year
- 2024
- 2025
Date
- Jan 05 - Jan 10
- Jan 12 - Jan 17
- Jan 19 - Jan 24
- Feb 02 - Feb 07
- Feb 09 - Feb 14
- Oct 12 - Oct 17
- Nov 09 - Nov 14
- Nov 30 - Dec 05
- Dec 07 - Dec 12
Please Note: The program differs on certain dates.
Dec 7 - Dec 12, 2025 Itinerary Differences: This date is a Challenging activity level with hiking 7-12 miles daily over varied terrain; Elevations up to 6,850 feet.
Please Note: The program differs on certain dates.
Select trip year and date
- 2024
- 2025
- Jan 05 - Jan 10
- Jan 12 - Jan 17
- Jan 19 - Jan 24
- Feb 02 - Feb 07
- Feb 09 - Feb 14
- Oct 12 - Oct 17
- Nov 09 - Nov 14
- Nov 30 - Dec 05
- Dec 07 - Dec 12
Dec 7 - Dec 12, 2025 Itinerary Differences: This date is a Challenging activity level with hiking 7-12 miles daily over varied terrain; Elevations up to 6,850 feet.
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
6 days
5 nights
What's Included
14 meals | 5B | 4L | 5D |
2 expert-led lectures
9 expert-led field trips
An experienced Group Leader
5 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
Check-in, Registration, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Location:
Big Bend Country
Meals:
D
Stay:
Marathon Motel
Activity Note
Motel check-in available from 4:00-5:00 p.m.
Afternoon:
Program Registration: 4:00-5:00 p.m. Upon arrival, check-in at the Marathon Motel main office. Here you will register with the program staff, get any updated information, confirm the time and location of the orientation session, and get keys to your room. After registration, there will be some time to settle into your room before the welcome dinner and orientation. For arrivals after 5:00 p.m. please contact us directly using the contact information in our pre-program communication.
Dinner:
At the Rita's Cantina, behind the main office of Marathon Motel.
Evening:
Orientation: 7:00 p.m. at Rita's Cantina. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. We will review COVID-19 protocols and will adhere to applicable requirements and guidelines throughout the program. Transportation will be provided via 15 passenger vans. Hikes will be led by a hiking instructor. Dinner locations have alcohol available for purchase onsite. If you wish to have a drink during dinner that is not included with the meal, purchase your beverage from the establishment. If you wish to buy your own supply for down time, you are more than welcome to do so, but please do not bring outside beverages to the dinner meals. The last night is BYOB. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/current conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.
Day
2
Hot Springs, Panther Junction
Location:
Big Bend Country
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Marathon Motel
Activity Note
Getting in/out of a passenger van. Hiking about 3+ miles; a portion along a canyon wall with sheer cliffs on one side, long portions of hike with little shade. Minimal elevation change. Bring a hat and sunscreen. Bring swimwear if you wish to swim at hot springs; restrooms available to change in. Visit Panther Junction.
Breakfast:
At Rita's Cantina.
Morning:
Our morning hike will take us along the Rio Grande on the east side of the river and the historic Hot Springs. At the Hot Springs there will be plenty of time to view the restored buildings of the early settlement and health resort from 1900 to 1940 as well as Native American rock art. There will also be time to soak and relax in the springs.
Lunch:
Field lunch at Historic Hot Springs.
Afternoon:
We’ll visit Panther Junction, the park’s main Visitor Center. We’ll return to our lodging mid-afternoon.
Dinner:
At Gage Restaurant.
Evening:
Before dinner, there will be a presentation by a local architect featuring alternative building techniques in west Texas near Marathon Motel.
Day
3
Hiking "The Window" & Lost Mine Overlook
Location:
Big Bend Country
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Marathon Motel
Activity Note
Getting in/out of a passenger van. Hiking about 4.8 miles throughout the morning; several low-water stream crossings. Elevation loss approximately 500 feet. Waterproof hiking shoes or boots recommended. This hike is there and back. Hiking 2.0 miles to the Lost Mine Overlook .
Breakfast:
At Rita's Cantina.
Morning:
In the Chisos Mountains of Big Bend National Park, we will hike “The Window” — a break in the mountain range looking out across the desert; the end of the hiking trail crosses several streams of water. Steep and loose debris in sections. We will also hike to the Oak Springs Overlook. Degree of difficulty: Strenuous.
Lunch:
Sack lunch on the trail.
Afternoon:
In the Chisos Mountains, we will set out for a spectacular hike to the Lost Mine Overlook. Degree of difficulty: Medium.
Dinner:
Rita's Cantina.
Evening:
Star Party at the Marathon Motel with a local expert.
Day
4
Fossil Exhibit, Upper Burro Mesa, Santa Elena
Location:
Big Bend Country
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Marathon Motel
Activity Note
Getting in/out of a passenger van. Hiking up to 4 miles throughout the morning; uneven terrain, crossing multiple creek beds. Hiking up to 2 miles throughout the afternoon; multiple steps along a canyon wall. Elevation gain approximately 200 feet.
Breakfast:
At Rita's Cantina
Morning:
Visit the Fossil Exhibit, the newest addition to the Park in 2017, where we will learn about the ancient seas and life that existed here more than 250 million years ago on a self-guided tour. Our hike this morning will be along the Upper Burro Mesa Trail. The trail is about 4 miles dry through a creek bed with some rocky portions to maneuver and slight elevation gain. Trail is wide, with some stairs to climb with a steep drop off on one side. Can be muddy in sections if there have been recent rains.
Lunch:
Sack lunch on the trail.
Afternoon:
We will then head to the Castolon area of Big Bend National Park for a self-directed exploration. Castolon was an old cavalry post built in 1920. The military withdrew in 1921 and it then became a frontier trading post. Our next hike along the Santa Elena Canyon Nature Trail will begin at the end of the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive on the west side of the park. We’ll hike through the famous canyon as the walls rise to 1,800 feet. Our next hike along the Santa Elena Canyon Nature Trail will begin at the end of the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive on the west side of the park. We’ll hike through the famous canyon with walls that rise to 1,800 feet. We will also learn about the Rio Grande that forms part of the U.S.-Mexico border.
Dinner:
At Rita's Cantina.
Evening:
Returning to our lodging, the remainder of the evening is at leisure.
Day
5
High Chisos Mountain Loop Full Day Hike
Location:
Big Bend Country
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Marathon Motel
Activity Note
Getting in/out of a passenger van. Hiking about 12 miles throughout the day; mountain terrain, well-shaded with conifers and hoodoos, well-defined trail, rocky at times, steep switchbacks. Elevation gain approximately 2,400 feet. Degree of difficulty: Strenuous.
Breakfast:
At Rita's Cantina.
Morning:
We will spend the day hiking in the beautiful Chisos Mountains. We will start in the Basin, hiking 12 miles round-trip with about 2,400 foot elevation gain. The trail follows switchbacks up into the mountains with steep and rocky terrain. Our hike will take us through woodlands opening up to excellent views into the Basin. We will be in the highest part of Big Bend National Park, and the views are often 100 miles in distance.
Lunch:
On the trail in the heart of the Chisos Mountains, we’ll have sack lunches.
Afternoon:
We will continue hiking the High Chisos Mountain Loop with return to our accommodations around 4:00 p.m.
Dinner:
At Brick Vault. We will share favorite experiences and camaraderie with new Road Scholar friends after dinner.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.
Day
6
Program Concludes
Location:
Big Bend Country
Meals:
B
Activity Note
Motel check-out by 11:00 a.m.
Breakfast:
To-go Breakfast at Rita's Cantina. This concludes our program.
Morning:
If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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MEALS
14 Meals
5 Breakfasts
4 Lunches
5 Dinners
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
- Dec 07, 2025 - Dec 12, 2025
- Dec 08, 2024 - Dec 13, 2024
- Jan 05, 2025 - Jan 10, 2025
- Jan 12, 2025 - Jan 17, 2025
- Jan 19, 2025 - Jan 24, 2025
- Feb 02, 2025 - Feb 07, 2025
- Feb 09, 2025 - Feb 14, 2025
- Oct 12, 2025 - Oct 17, 2025
- Nov 09, 2025 - Nov 14, 2025
- Nov 30, 2025 - Dec 05, 2025
- Dec 07, 2025 - Dec 12, 2025
Participant Reviews
Based on 62 Reviews
Sort By:
It was a very good trip. Kara and her team are awesome. She has been the best leader I've had in all my trips with Road Scholar. She is very outgoing and taught us a lot about Big Bend. Its history, geography, plants, wildlife, geology, and people. We also had a great time in Marathon doing the Star show which was part of the program. We visited a house that is made out of recycled shredded paper and styrofoam using paper crepe technique which was neat. The first trail we did at the park was the Hot Springs which was difficult because it was uphill, and there are no trees to hide away the sun, but it was worth it. The Window and Lost Mine trails are awesome to do. This trip does require skill and very good physical ability to do trails. Please make sure you are in good shape to do difficult and long trails, if you want to sign up for this trip.
Kara and her team made the trails come alive with their explanations . I enjoyed that she read excerpts from a book about the people who used to live in Big Bend before it was a national park. She and her team know the park and the area very well, but they also love it a lot.
The food the team made for us was very good and for lunch at the park, they made different food on different days. So we had home cooked meals for all meals every day. We did go to the Gage Hotel to eat dinner one evening, which was very good too.
Big Bend offers canyons, river, wildlife like bears and falcons which we saw, plants that you don t see anywhere else in the country, great trails to hike. It offers mountains, forest and a semi dessert area all int the same park. It 's a gem to see.
I'm from Texas. This is my third visit to Big Bend and I am definitely coming back !!!
— Review left October 29, 2024
This program is one that challenges Seniors but not at an unreasonable level, instead it stretches participants own expectations and confirms we are able to do still more than initially thought!
— Review left October 20, 2024
Big bend hiking is a superb program led by experienced and friendly guides who enhanced the program immensely. I strong recommend this program- it is in a gorgeous location, is highly informative and well worth taking.
— Review left October 19, 2024
Excellent!
— Review left May 15, 2024
One of favorite Road Scholar programs to date. Never could we of imagined all the geology and landscapes Big Bend NP had to offer; a true hidden gem. A completely different Texas vibe from what you see and hear on the news so close to the Rio Grande. Tara and her staff/family were so warm and welcoming. You could feel the love and passion they have for their town of Marathon and for this part of Texas. The added bonus were the wonderful hikes and the history lessons that accompanied each of them. There is a lengthy van ride to the park each day but that should not stop you from taking this trip. The van rides were a time for conversations, history lessons and wildlife spotting. We would definitely recommend this trip if you want to see the best of Big Bend NP. The Feldstein's
— Review left February 28, 2024
Tara and Joe were terrific hosts. This small family business offered a very comprehensive, safe, and fun way to hike in BBNP which is not easily accessible. Joe and Sandy were terrific guides. The food cooked and served by the family was absolutely fabulous, especially since they accommodated several types of diets. The Marathon Motel is cozy, safe, and fun place to stay. Truly, I couldn't have asked for anything better, especially given that Marathon has few options to offer. If you want to hike in BB, then this is a great option. I don't regret the effort it took to get there.
— Review left February 5, 2024
I highly recommend this program. It was physically challenging in a good way. The landscape was unbelievable and the experience with the other participants was warm and enjoyable. I gained a deep respect for the history and people of West Texas. What made the experience so memorable were the guides Tara and Joe and their family. Their care, great attitude, knowledge and love of the place made this a very special experience.
— Review left February 2, 2024
The RS challenging Big Bend hiking tour is a great experince for hikers. Big Bend NP is amazingly beautiful and the hikes take you to most of the accessible areas of the park. The tour leaders are excellent, food very good, and acccomodation good to very good. It is hard to think how this hiking trip could have been better for my wife and me.
Combine it with visits to Gaudalupe NP and Carlsbad Caverns NP and you will
have a wonderful vacation as we did.
— Review left February 2, 2024
Loved the trip to Big Bend we just completed. The area is beautiful and the hiking was good. They accommodated different levels of hikers and kept everyone involved. I learned a lot about the area, and now I want to go back! We ate very well and our accommodations were comfortable and clean. Everyone felt accepted and almost part of the family. Can't recommed this trip highly enough!
— Review left February 1, 2024
This was a great trip. The hiking was indeed "spirited", always interesting with just the right amount of challenge. Joe and Tara wereleaders. Their love of Big Bend and the small town of Marathan was infectious. I learned so much about the joys and challenges of living in the Big Bend border region.
— Review left January 27, 2024
This trip far exceeded our expectations! The scenery of the park was breathtaking. The hiking was great! Our guides, Joe and Tara, were excellent! Their vast knowledge and love of the area was evident and really enhanced our trip. They were organized, efficient and enthusiastic!
— Review left January 26, 2024
I had a great time on our four day Road Scholar trip to Big Bend National Park.
All my comments are positive and I thoroughly enjoyed this trip. Tara and Joe were great leaders and guides.
— Review left January 26, 2024
Hiking in Big Bend was awesome!! Tara and Joe were absolutely the best!
— Review left January 24, 2024
Spectacular! Guides Tara and Joe of Hidden Dagger Adventures were excellent guides and tireless enthusiasts for the Park, its geology, flora and fauna. The hikes featured the most beautiful areas of the Park with great elevations and 100 mile views. While the desert and mountains were in their winter dormancies, the variety of colors of the land and mountains were vivid in the brilliant sunshine. The base of operations in tiny Marathon, TX, although an hours drive from the Park, proved to be an attraction in itself with a vibrant local arts and music culture. I highly recommend this trip to anyone who loves to hike and enjoy the outdoors.
— Review left January 18, 2024
Tara and her team were welcoming, extremely knowledgeable, flexible, kind, and loads of fun. This was a wonderful trip, well-paced in a stunning, otherworldly landscape. Hiking with a micro group was sheer pleasure.
Carol M., Annapolis
— Review left December 13, 2023
This particular trip exceeded my expectations! The staff and accommodations were delightful.
— Review left December 12, 2023
Hidden Dagger Tours were great. They live in the area and know all aspects of both the park and the local town. I saw and learned more than I would have doing this trip on my own.
— Review left November 22, 2023
What an amazing experience of trails, people, culture, history and just wonders I had not expected!
— Review left November 2, 2023
Our guides were incredible. Tara and her team shared their vast knowledge of Marathon and Big Bend while keeping us safe and comfortable. Tara and her mom cooked delicious, varied, and healthy food with ample portions. Tara also hosted us at wonderful local restaurants. By the end of the trip, we felt that we were part of her family and the town. We also had a very interesting evening of dark sky viewing with powerful telescopes and a very knowledgeable instructor.
We had a wonderful overview of the vast Big Bend National Park. She carefully, and without politics, showed and explained the changing and tricky relationship with Mexico.
I have been on many guided trips and cannot recommend this trip highly enough.
— Review left October 30, 2023
This outstanding program was greatly enhanced by the excellent guides and staff from Hidden Dagger Adventures!
— Review left October 29, 2023
Great experience & opportunity to explore wonders of the world. Highly suggest traveling with your favorite gal pals!
— Review left October 23, 2023
Thanks to the local outfitters Tara and Joe with Hidden Dagger Adventures, this was a most excellent excursion into 4 different areas of Big Bend. Between the varied landscapes, the vegetation and wildlife, the dark skies, the creative vibe in Marathon, I highly recommend this trip.
I did buy the trip insurance offered by Road Scholar through Aon, which turned out to be worth it, as the first leg of my flight was cancelled and I arrived a day late.
— Review left April 1, 2023
Big Bend National Park and the surrounding area is truly unique and beautiful from the Rio Grande to trails where there were Ponderosa Pines and Aspens!
Oh and did I mention the night sky--truly starry starry nights abound!
Most importantly our Tour Guides were enthusiastic and knowledgeable.
— Review left February 19, 2023
Tara and team made our trip memorable by their personalized touch on everything from the food to the stories. The Marathon community is rich with history and culture. The Marathon Motel is clean and comfortable, a hidden gem that we didn't expect. This trip exceed our expectations in every way. We will certainly sign up for another Road Scholar trip.
— Review left February 11, 2023
The guides were extremely knowledgeable, patient and friendly. I learned so much about the area. Big Bend is a beautiful National park with a wide variety of landscapes. Hiking can be strenuous but I appreciated that I was able to safely challenge myself with guidance and advice from our leaders. Food was excellent and the educational learning experiences from locals were great.
— Review left February 8, 2023
A superb trip for people with experience hiking on rocky, rugged trails and at 5000+ altitude. Spectacular scenery and history. Best for cheerful, friendly, and flexible people. Amazing geology and flora. Outstanding leadership.
— Review left February 7, 2023
Excellent program but strenuous. Program leaders from Hidden Dagger Adventures were superb! Pay attention to the elevation which made some of the hikes difficult.
— Review left January 30, 2023
Tara and Joe are building their new business - Hidden Dagger Adventures. They were totally committed to making everyone comfortable during the program. Our experiences in Marathon significantly added to the program. Each day exposed us to different parts of the park (which is huge), giving us an appreciation of all of it.I would highly recommend the challenging version of the program to anyone!
— Review left January 30, 2023
This trip was outstanding! The guides, Tara and Joe were knowledgeable, enthusiastic, safety conscious and a real pleasure to be around. Big Bend has a variety of scenery and history that is amazing. The challenge level was what I expected and wanted out of this trip. It was strenuous and I appreciated that we were kept on-pace. The accommodations and meals were great. I would recommend this trip and Hidden Dagger Adventures.
— Review left January 30, 2023
Excellent, healthy food was served with attention to vegetarian as well as meat dishes. The guides, Tara and Joe, shared their love of Big Bend and the Marathon community, worked extremely well as a team and were attentive to individual needs. They were also very knowledgeable, enthusiastic and personable. We hiked dramatic, scenic and challenging areas of the park and got to see highlights of this vast and beautiful land area. I highly recommend this program and Hidden Dagger Adventures.
— Review left January 21, 2023
This experienced had everything I wanted in an adventure - beautiful scenery, new landscapes that captured my imagination, historical perspective with contemporary context, a physical challenge, and great food and company within our group and in the lovely town of Marathon. Tara and Joe were knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides who maintained the safety of our group while extending wonderful hospitality. Thank you!
— Review left December 26, 2022
This program provides a nice overview of Big Bend National Park and its three ecosystems: the desert, the river/canyons, and the mountains. The leaders, Tara and Joe, are outstanding.
— Review left December 20, 2022
This was one of the best trips I have ever taken. There is no better way to experience the majesty of the park than to hike around it. I think that working for a view makes it all that much more spectacular.
— Review left December 18, 2022
Great program for those who are up to the physical activity level required for hiking in Big Bend National Park. Exceptional Guides with intimate knowledge of the Park. Good way to capture the expanse and contrasts of such a unique area. We never could have experienced so much in four days on our own.
— Review left December 8, 2022
Tara and Joe of Hidden Dagger Adventures were enthusiastic and flexible guides to Big Bend. I would recommend this program for introducing a unique and fascinating area of the country.
This was a trip for those people who don't like to sit around a meal table endlessly, but want to see the planets through a telescope, bathe in a hot spring, visit an innovative house, and explore fossils and geology. Not to mention hike!
— Review left December 5, 2022
Tara's and Joe's energy and passion is as mind-boggling as it is contagious. They cook, they drive, they hike, they plan and back up plan and alternate plan. The new digs at Marathon Motel are a huge improvement. Big Bend National Park with its river, desert, and mountains is like nothing you've seen before.
— Review left November 28, 2022
Just finished a great hiking trip at Big Bend with the Road Scholar contractor Hidden Dagger Adventures and would heartily recommend it to anyone who is looking for a fun and challenging visit to a great national park!
— Review left November 21, 2022
Excellent program. Guides/leaders were exceptional. Challenging program but! just what I wanted. Big Bend is beautiful/awesome
— Review left November 21, 2022
The Road Scholar formula of exercise and learning at a fair price cannot be beat.
— Review left October 26, 2022
Great scenery, vigorous hikes, knowledgeable and personable leaders, and a glimpse at surprising aspects of relations along the Mexican border. Big Bend is somehwhat remote, but this program makes it well worth the trip.
— Review left February 2, 2022
In my first RS hiking trip since COVID started, I was pleased with this micro group. Tara and Alicia were amazing and inspiring group leaders, a true team, who introduced us to the flora, fauna, and human/geologic history. The hikes were great and I slept well each night. Bonus is that Tara and Alicia also served as our cooks, providing home cooked breakfasts (along with lots of options), in field lunches (including hot soups and tea--we only took pre-prepared sandwiches once), and some evening meals as well. This in addition to doing the dishes, etc, without missing a beat or losing any time for the hiking/excursions into Big Bend. Their energy levels, knowledge, and constant smiles were incredible. I would highly recommend this program. Too bad it's so hard to get there!
— Review left January 24, 2022
Big Bend NP is vast and amazing - Road Scholar helped me to see and hike, feel the land in historical perspectives, understand the geography and geology...the size and variety of landscapes of this NP make it very difficult to encompass on a do it myself trip - it was great!!
— Review left December 25, 2021
The staff of Tara, Alicia and Joe were extremely accommodating which fostered comradery in the in the group.
— Review left December 20, 2021
It is difficult to be a "spoiler alert" but I felt compelled to alert people who have read reviews of this trip from awhile ago, as I had. Big Bend is an unusual and atypical National Park in many ways. If hiking in a desert environment is something you find fascinating by all means you will totally love your time in this park. If you can tolerate staying in one of the most horrific motels since you became a seasoned traveler, then you will do okay with what others identify as "basic." It is definitely unfortunate that Road Scholar lost its relationship with the Far Flung's Casitas, where you will have the majority of your meals at this lodgings' "Oasis" building. Definitely the guides are fabulous as will be your fellow hikers, as has been the case with all of the hiking trips I have done with Road Scholar; however, had this been my first trip with this company I would be hesitant to book with them again. Our itinerary was also changed once we got on site, and this has been a valuable lesson for me as a traveler arriving early to a location. Fortunately, the guides understood my desire to do a certain trail and I was given the opportunity to do one of the two I had hoped to hike. All in all, I am totally glad I have experienced the Big Bend area, especially Big Bend Ranch State Park, but I would definitely have recommendations for friends to do it differently than I did with this program.
— Review left December 16, 2021
Excellent program. Very worth traveling to the remote area. Hikes were challenging in the picturesque area. Both Alesia and Tara were knowledgeable and encouraged participants to add their expertise to the discussion.
— Review left December 3, 2021
Rugged hiking in an area of the U.S. that few people visit. The guides are great and the environment is more varied than I expected. Big Bend has mountains, desert, and river environments, and you will get a chance to experience them all.
Accommodations were pretty basic, but that had more to do with the fact that the base town where you are staying has suddenly become quite the hot spot, and Road Scholar wasn't able to secure the better options in town. Maybe now is the time to see this area before everyone else discovers it.
— Review left November 29, 2021
The challenging hikes are challenging!! Tara and Alicia are excellent leaders, who bring great knowledge about the area and are fun to hike with. Food was great, home cooked breakfasts,and some lunches and some dinners. This was an outstanding trip.
— Review left November 19, 2021
Outstanding leadership, good food, small group, and stunning surroundings. Heat will be a factor for some.
— Review left November 5, 2021
I enjoyed this hiking trip tremendously. Our leaders, Alicia and Tara, were very well prepared, organized, and helpful. Big Bend is a wonderful park to hike in with trails along the Rio Grande, in the desert, canyons and mountains. Meals were very good, with our leaders generally preparing breakfast and lunch, with dinners at a variety of local restaurants. Our accommodations in Teralingua were on the basic side, but comfortable enough, and close to the Park entrance. There was enough travel without being farther away from the park.
A wonderful trip!
— Review left November 3, 2021
Great destination, guides, hikes.
— Review left February 26, 2020
Outstanding program in a beautiful, less-traveled natural area. Excellent balance of outdoor activity and learning about flora, fauna, geology, ecology, culture, history, and politics. Knowledgeable and caring leaders; comfortable accommodations; delicious food. Five stars!
— Review left February 8, 2020
January is a great time to be in south Texas when you live in the Midwest or Northeast, and everyone in our group of just 10 was from one place or the other. The warm dry breeze, the great guides Tara and Jake, (and they even COOK wonderful meals!!), the hikes full of scenic beauty, taking a dip in the Hot Springs at the edge of the Rio Grande, the funky fun places we went for dinners, touring Terlingua, and the lovely accommodation at Far Flung Outdoor Center were above and beyond my expectations for the trip. It was relaxing in the way that good hiking makes you feel. Make no mistake, it's not easy to get there, but it was worth the effort. I've experienced a true place unique unto itself. Thanks, Tara and Jake!
— Review left February 1, 2020
The Big Bend, TX. adventure was wonderful with diverse hikes, including desert, canyon, and mountain. Alicia and Jake opened our eyes to the incredible plant life and geological formations found within the terrain. Truly a unique experience.
— Review left January 29, 2020
My program taught me so much about the area we visited. I came home with a brain full of new information.
— Review left January 19, 2020
Big Bend NP was worth the hassle of getting there with a rental car. I loved the hikes. I could have done with a slower more consistent pace, but managed to endure and enjoy.
— Review left November 25, 2019
Fabulous weather, great lodging, excellent guides, everything was A+++.
— Review left June 5, 2019
Excellent program. Big Bend is beautiful. I recommend this program to anyone not familiar with this part of the country. Hiking in Big Bend was fabulous!!! First time on a Roads Scholar trip, had a great time!
— Review left February 15, 2019
Big Bend is not the first or even fourth or fifth on most people's "bucket list," but perhaps it should be. The area was breath-taking. Our instructor, Dean, was clear and knowledgeable. Accommodations were perfect. It's a place to go and a place to "go back to."
— Review left February 10, 2019
A terrific way to combine good exercise and new friends in a very unique environment.
— Review left January 21, 2019
Just returned from Big Bend National Park hiking trip, challenging category, last week. Please do not be intimidated by the long drive to get there, as this is a spectacular program!! Tara and Alicia were first-class guides and educators. I learned so much about the history of its Native peoples, geology, geography, plants and animals, history of Texas and its relations with Mexico. The hikes were wonderfully varied in degree of difficulty and diversity of the landscapes-- canyons, mesas, mountains-- wowie! The group was fun and welcoming. My charming casita at Far Flung was immaculate and spacious-- loved having my own little kitchen, and porch with rocking chairs. Great variety of places for dinner and great food, too.
The government shutdown did not affect our hiking itinerary, gratefully. Big Bend National Park is a stunning locale for hiking.
I highly recommend this program.
— Review left January 17, 2019
Truly a "hidden gem". Every hike exposed a different feel of the park: waterfalls, slot canyon, plant life variation.
— Review left January 15, 2019
Of the 3 "strenuous" hiking trip we've taken with RS, this was by far The Best! Best guides, best accommodations, best fellow hikers (11 in our group), and best food. It's a little tricky getting to Terlingua but so worth the effort!
— Review left January 3, 2019