ADVENTURE AWAITS YOU

Explore the diversity of the soaring Chisos Mountains, vast Chihuahuan Desert, majestic Mariscal Canyon, and the unique cultures of the Texas-Mexico border all in one adventure

We invite you to call and ask questions 936.671.9439

Big Bend

Trail Running Expedition

Description

Follow in the footsteps of those ranging from Anglo ranchers to nomadic bands of Chisos Indians to sixteenth-century Spanish explorers to the Comanche and even Clovis-era tribes dating back to over 10,000 years ago. Locked in time, the towering Chisos Mountains, weather beaten Chihuanhuan Desert, and majestic Mariscal Canyon are among some of the least visited areas in the entire United States. Be one of the few to ever traverse in one adventure through these varied ecosystems that are so uniquely different that you have to see them to believe it. Explore canyons like a Spanish explorer, traverse deserts like a Anglo cowboy, and climb through mountain peaks like a Comanche Indian, all while sleeping under one of the most star lit skies in the entire United States.

Build camaraderie with your teammates as you explore trails on washed out backcountry jeep roads and rocky single-track, but don’t be intimidated. This is a trip designed for enjoyment, as much as adventure. We will not be in a hurry when out on runs. Much of this running will be slow and leisurely along mountains and desert with built-in breaks for pictures and time to explore. The primary focus of this expedition is to explore the freedom and adventure that running brings. You also may pick up tips on new skill sets such as fast packing, wilderness camping, back country travel, paddling, etc. as a bonus.

Details

ADVENTURE LEVEL / WHO SHOULD ATTEND

Intermediate / Advanced - While this trip is geared toward intermediate to advanced runners, anyone that has a love for adventure and trail running will benefit from attending this event.
Attendees should be able to run between 10 - 25 miles a day at an easy pace on various grades.

GROUP SIZE AND GUIDES

There will be a maximum of 8 runners. Spots are available on a first come, first serve basis and typically fill up quickly so register today to secure your spot.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

You will need to arrive at Big Bend National Park in Big Bend National Park, TX before 3:00 pm on the first day. Suggestions and guidance will be provided once the group is set! While it is not required a valid passport is recommended if you want to cross the border after the expedition ends.

WEATHER

Winter tends to be one of the better times to experience Big Bend because it falls within the cooler months in The Chihuahuan Desert. Be prepared for unexpected weather as it can change drastically and quickly in this part of the country. Average highs will be in the low 60s and average lows in the 40s.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Please read all trip and itinerary details, along with the FAQs, Cancellation Policy and the Release from Liability. If you have any questions please feel free to contact us.

Itinerary

DAY 1

We will arrive at Big Bend National Park in Big Bend National Park, TX and meet up by 3:00 pm. The evening will be spent relaxing, going over logistics, gear checks, getting to know each other, and enjoying dinner before turning in for the night.

DAY 2

After breakfast, we hit the trail early to give ourselves plenty of time to enjoy the Chisos Mountain air. Once on the trail everyone is encouraged to run and explore as much as possible. Expect to see sweeping vistas that range from mountain peaks to the desert valley floor, alpine forests filled with pine, oak, and maple, and maybe even the occasional Mexican black bear or mountain lion. We will stop for breaks and to eat lunch together along the way. We will drop several thousand feet into the Chihuanhuan Desert before making camp under one of the most expansive and star lit skies in the entire United States. Day 2 will consist of roughly 19 miles of running.

DAY 3

Wake to a hot breakfast before suiting up and beginning the day's adventure. Today’s journey will take us across the second largest desert ecosystem in North America. Expect to see desert flora such as cactus, lechuguilla, sotol, and candelilla as well as wildlife ranging from badgers to coyotes. After passing the abandon Mariscal mine where quicksilver was excavated by early settlers we will reach the border and the next leg of our journey. Here we will leave our running packs behind and exchange them for life vests as we enter the Rio Grande River and float Mariscal Canyon. Be amazed as you float by the towering walls of this massive canyon and experience its beauty. This is a site that you will tell your grandkids about. After exiting the other side of the canyon we will arrive at our take out and camp to eat, rest, and give everyone time to enjoy each other's company for the night. Day 3 will consist of roughly 16 miles of running and 11 miles of paddling.

DAY 4

Rested for our final push, we undertake the last leg of our journey through the Chihuanhuan Desert to an abandon hot springs on the Rio Grande River. Soak your weary body in the warm waters of the hot springs before reaching the end of our journey at the Texas Mexico border in the Rio Grande Village. Those with a valid passport can join us as we cross over into Mexico to celebrate completing our epic adventure and enjoy some authentic Mexican food and tequila in Boquillus, Mexico. Those that choose to can relax in the comforts of Rio Grande Village. Day 4 will consist of roughly 20 miles of running.

DAY 5

Waking rested the next morning, we will eat breakfast and make our way back to the start in the Chisos Mountains via transfer before saying our goodbyes… but only until our next adventure!

COST

$995 + fees
Total pricing per person.
$500 deposit guarantees your spot.
Total balance due by February 1, 2018.
Includes pre-trip guidance and communication, gear lists, all meals, swag, ground transportation within park, park entrance fees and permits, camping, guided runs through breath-taking landscapes by experienced and knowledgeable guides.
Does NOT include travel to Big Bend National Park, flights, alcohol, travel insurance (highly recommended), personal gear, visas (if applicable), personal expenses, and optional activities such as crossing the border, meals at restaurants, etc.