Sanderson is just inside the very eastern border of the Chihuahua Desert and Big Bend region of West Texas. This little town is like an undiscovered secret in the desert. Staying here is an authentic experience of small town charm. Time seems to slow down a little here and that’s part of what makes Sanderson a great place to get away. Other Far West Texas towns are not very far away (by desert driving standards) and can be done as day trips from Sanderson, or Sanderson can be a stop along the way to other destinations in the area.

Sanderson

  • Hike up Hominy and Javelina Hills on either side of the town. You’ll have great views all around and consider yourself lucky if the train rolls through town. Sanderson Nature Trail

  • Bi-Centennial Park is the town recreational area with a playground, public pool and public library close by.

  • Grab some grub at the Ranch House. They have the best burgers and chicken fried steak.

  • Tex-Mex restaurant Chili Con Arnie’s takes online orders on days the Ranch House is closed. chilieconarnie.com

  • The Eat ‘Em Up Kitchen food truck has great burgers, chicken fried steak, and other southern favorites. They post their daily menu on Facebook. Eat ‘Em Up Facebook Page

  • The Ferguson Motors building has recently reopened with fresh coffee, antiques, and merchandise from the Desert Air Motel and Big Bend Conservation Alliance.

  • Stop into the Terrell County Visitors Center for information on Sanderson and the surrounding area.

  • Shop at Z-Bar Hardware Store. They have everything you need, except food. You can’t miss the big dinosaur out front!

  • Check out other locally owned businesses like Kiss My Grits, ‘Tis the Reason flower shop, Sanderson drug store, and Kulture Art’s lock wall.

  • Get the best view of the trains going by from the Sanderson Hwy 90 picnic area, on top of Javelina Hill, or at the motel.

  • Spend hours hanging out under the oak tree at the Desert Air Motel.

Marathon

  • Marathon is 50 minutes west of Sanderson.

  • There are plenty of food options in Marathon including the Brick Vault BBQ and Brewery, The French Grocer, The Oasis Cafe, and J&G Grill.

  • There are some shopping options in Marathon by the Gage Hotel.

  • The Gage Gardens are a must-do in the area!

  • Fort Pena Colorado Park is the perfect place to have a picnic. The 10 minute drive from Marathon to the park begs for picture taking. Colorado Pena Park Info

Big Bend National Park

  • The Big Bend National Park entrance is 1.5 hours from Sanderson. Panther Junction Visitors center is 2 hours from Sanderson.

  • Dog Canyon is the northern most hike of the park and is a great stopping point if you want to say you “did Big Bend.” For more information on this vast area of trails and camping, see their website.

Alpine

  • Alpine is 1 hour and 15 minutes from Sanderson.

  • Alpine has plenty of food, drink, and shopping options.

  • See how many murals you can find in the town.

  • Visit the Museum of the Big Bend.

  • Take the Desk Hike above Sul Ross University. Don’t miss this one!

Langtry

  • Langtry is 60 miles SE of Sanderson

  • Visit the Judge Roy Bean Museum

  • Cross over the Pecos High Bridge and pull over for a scenic view

  • Visit Seminole Canyon State Park