Trans-Pecos Volcanic Ridge Trail

This 31-mile technical route cuts through the volcanic highlands of Presidio County, following old mining roads that connected mercury mines to railroad shipping points in the early 1900s. The trail climbs through Chinati Peak’s volcanic debris field — a moonscape of sharp rhyolite and loose talus that’s shredded tires for over a century. At Candelaria Rim Overlook, you can see three states and Mexico spread out below while your cooling system recovers from the brutal climb.

This is difficult terrain requiring experienced drivers, full armor, and genuine rock-crawling capability. Summer temperatures exceed 110°F with zero shade, making winter the only comfortable season. Water, fuel, and cell service are nonexistent — the nearest anything is 60 miles away in Presidio. Dispersed camping is allowed but bring everything including your own shade. What you earn: complete solitude in some of the most remote country in the Lower 48 and bragging rights to one of Texas’s gnarliest technical challenges.