Davis Mountains State Park CCC Fort Davis Loop
CCC desert road through volcanic Davis Mountains.
The CCC boys carved this road through volcanic tuff and ignimbrite in the 1930s, connecting Davis Mountains State Park to the ruins of Fort Davis where Buffalo Soldiers once patrolled the Chihuahuan Desert. The route climbs through desert grassland past century plants and lechuguilla, then drops into Limpia Canyon where spring water creates an oasis of cottonwoods and willows. You’ll pass stone CCC structures still standing after 90 years, with views across the Trans-Pecos to the Chisos Mountains in Big Bend.
Stock high-clearance vehicles handle this moderate route fine, though loose volcanic rock can puncture tires and the steep descent into Limpia Canyon requires careful throttle control. Summer heat is brutal — spring and fall are ideal, with winter offering crisp desert air and clear skies perfect for the McDonald Observatory nearby. No permits needed, but bring plenty of water and spare tire repair gear. This is classic Trans-Pecos desert driving with genuine frontier history, not some sanitized recreation area experience.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | High Clearance |
| Surface | Rock |
| Features | High Altitude, Historic, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 18 mi / 29 km |
| Duration | 1 day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 5200 ft |
| Best season | October-April |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Fort Davis, Texas |
| Land manager | Texas Parks and Wildlife Department |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Official sources | tpwd.texas.gov |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock 4Runner or Wrangler handle this trail without modifications?
Yes — the minimum is a stock 4WD high-clearance vehicle and a bone-stock 4Runner or Wrangler handles it fine. Lifted rigs are never a bad idea on rocky volcanic surface, but factory clearance gets the job done here.
When is the trail open and are there seasonal closures to plan around?
October through April is the sweet spot — cooler temps and stable conditions. Summer in the Davis Mountains means intense heat and afternoon monsoon storms that can make rocky sections slick and unpredictable, so plan accordingly.
Do you need a permit or day-use pass to drive this trail?
Yes — Davis Mountains State Park charges a standard Texas State Park entry fee, currently $6 per person per day. No separate trail permit is required, but pay at the entrance station before heading out.
What's the hardest section of the trail and what should I actually expect?
The rocky volcanic sections with loose basalt and embedded rock are where it gets honest — nothing technically extreme, but sustained rocky surface with 1,800 feet of gain keeps you focused. Moderate means moderate here; don't expect a gravel road cruise.
Is there cell service on the trail, and how far is the nearest gas?
There is zero cell service on this trail — download your maps and sort your comms before you leave pavement. Fort Davis town center is your last stop for fuel, roughly 4 miles from the park entrance, and it's a small town so don't roll in on fumes.
Trail track
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