From New Mexico to Mexico, this trip has some of the most beautiful desert hikes, darkest nights in the lower 48, and randomest art installments. Alpine offers amazing food. Marfa has no shortage of alternative lodging (tepees), galleries, and aliens. And of course, Big Bend is one of the county's wowiest parks.
This park offers austere back country camping, unmatched privacy, and breathtaking views. No better way to recover from a trip to Slaughter Canyon than by visiting the very accessible, tourist friendly (air conditioned) Carlsbad Caverns.
The crown jewel of south western TX weirdness. No, you're not having a desert hallucination. Yes, the only thing that isn't a cactus you've seen in an hour is a lone Prada store.
Enjoy outdoor seating in their restaurant's courtyard.
Alpine is pretty serious about good food. Get a hardy breakfast (cinnamon roles!!!) at Judy's before busting your butt at Big Bend for a few days.
Big Bend has the greatest amount of land protected from light pollution! The trails are pretty accessible, lots of switch backs, and seriously amazing views. Get your stargazing on.
Congrats! You finally understand the cactus/succulent trend! Be hipper than ever rocking your alien tourist t-shirt from Marfa and a desert sunburn.