LAJITAS (La-HEE-tahs)

Population 48

Altitude 2,440

General

On F.M. 170 at the western edge of Big Bend National Park, the village name is Spanish for "flagstones," of which there are prominent outcroppings in the area. First became a village in 1915 when an Army post was stationed to protect Big Bend area form flamboyant Mexican bandit Francisco (Pancho) Villa.

Recent developments feature a modern motel and resort complex with golf course, river rafting, swimming pools, tennis courts, horseback riding, restaurant, and genuine-looking "frontier" building styles with plank sidewalks and hitching rails. Inquire locally about all facilities. Caters to visitors year round; winter season most popular. 915/424-3471.

Big Bend National Park-Some 20 miles east of Lajitas on F.M. 170. See BIG BEND NATIONAL PARK.

Attractions

• BIG BEND RANCH STATE NATURAL AREA-VAST region encompassing desert, mountains, canyons, and the Rio Grande-offering primitive hiking and backpacking, nature study, river rafting and canoeing, and bus tours. Entrance and user fees.
• WARNOCK ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION CENTER-Archeological, historical, and natural history profile of the Big Bend region; departure point for bus tours of the Big Bend Ranch State Natural Area the third Sat. of each month; tour fee includes meal deep in the natural area; reservations advisable 915/424-3327. Also information about vehicle, hiking, and river raft access; experienced backpackers only; no developed facilities. The center offers maps, books and other informational material; self-guided tour of botanical garden displaying characteristic plants of the Chihuahuan Desert. Open 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily; admission. Immediately east of Lajitas on F.M. 170.
• RIO GRANDE FLOAT TRIPS-The National Park service advises there are several licensed outfitters who provide river float trips or other wilderness excursions in Big Bend National Park. An approved list can be obtained from the park.
• SCENIC DRIVE-El Camino del Rio, Spanish for "the River Road," local name for F.M. 170 that stretches form Lajitas northwest to Presidio and beyond. An excellent paved route, it's one of the most spectacular drives in Texas, plunging over mountains and canyons along the sun-drenched Rio Grande. Drivers are cautioned that the route encounters steep grades (15%), sharp curves, occasional loose livestock, and low-water crossing; special alert for large RVs or vehicles pulling large trailers.

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