Staying at the Big House at Big Bend Ranch State Park

Near the center of the park is the historic Sauceda ranch complex, including the "Big House" which is open for visitor lodging.

The park's website says this about the Big House:

"The historic Sauceda ranch house (aka. Big House), was built in 1908 and remodeled in the 1940s. With its vaulted ceilings, huge sunroom, fireplaces and impressive furniture, it features one of the more unique residential architecture styles of its day, and contains three bedrooms/three baths to accommodate eight persons. There is a well appointed kitchen available at the Big House, or arrangements may be made for meals in the Sauceda Lodge Bunkhouse dining area., located on the grounds."

There's also more photos and information about rates and bookings on this page.

Check tomorrow's post for more photos of the Big House!

Snow on Turtleback Mountain!

Taken yesterday in Van Horn!

Buffalo Soldier history

As the west became more populated and cattle drives and stagecoach lines became more prevalent, the Mescalo Apache began to defend their land by raiding and attacking settlements.  After the conclusion of the Civil War, the federal government sent units of African American soldiers to the west to protect settlers and travelers from the threat of attack.

The soldiers were named, Buffalo Soldiers, because of their dark skin, curly hair, and the intensity of their fighting.  They made an impact all over the Texas Mountain Trail region.

To read about the Buffalo Soliders stationed at Fort Davis National Historic Site, click here and here.
To read about Buffalo Soldier history in Guadalupe Mountains National Park, click here and here.
The Museum of the Big Bend has exhibits on Buffalo Soldiers.

Ocotillo at Ojito Adentro Trailhead, Big Bend Ranch State Park

One of the great trails in the largest and wildest state park in Texas, Big Bend Ranch State Park.

Here's a link to information about fun things to do in the park.

For other regional hiking information, visit: www.texasmountaintrail.com/hike

Snow!

Most areas in the region had at least some snow over the past couple of days, and the mountains are beautiful!

Six Mile Mountain in Van Horn

Van Horn's skyline is dominated by Six Mile Mountain north of town.  Six Mile (because it is three miles to the mountain from town, and three miles back!) can be seen for miles by visitors heading west from Kent, and on Hwy 54 (where this photo was taken) on the way to Guadalupe Mountains National Park!

Day of the Dead puppet

One of the great things about being so close to the border is the ability to celebrate Mexican culture, including Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos).  This was taken during El Paso's celebration, in late October/early November.