Sky Island Hiking
Sky Island Fall Foliage Hiking: Guadalupe, Chisos, Davis, and Franklin Mountains with McDonald Observatory
The Rocky Mountain chain dips into this breathtaking corner of “far-west” Texas where towering mountains knows as “sky islands” emerge as biodiverse refuges for abundant plant, bird, and animal species, making the Chihuahuan Desert the most biologically rich desert on Earth. Giant maples, oaks, walnuts, and cottonwoods turn resplendent with fall colors against dramatic limestone and red rock cliffs, amidst towering and ancient ponderosa pines and Texas madrone. Due to a healthy monsoon season, the colors will likely be vibrant and the desert green. By November, the weather typically subsides to reveal clear dark skies in the world’s largest International Dark Sky Preserve, where you will enjoy an evening program with astronomers at the McDonald’s Observatory. Vistas, canyons, mountains, and dark skies from Guadalupe Mountains to Big Bend National Park will be a constant backdrop through our hikes and travels, while enjoying the comfort of historic and boutique hotels unique to the region and its rich heritage of hospitality.
Price: $2600 per person double occupancy, single supplement $700, plus 8.25% Texas sales tax
