West Go

From the Hill Country to Big Bend, summertime calls for a westward journey.

Nothing is deeper in the heart of Texas than the extensive vistas and uninhabited basin of the state's western edge. From the burnt sienna of the Chisos Mountains to the goldenrod grasses dotting the dusty violet of the high desert, the watercolors of West Texas beckon adventurers looking for sights not often seen. Skip the conventional destinations this summer, and make the journey to one of the farthest-flung regions in the Lone Star State. Interstate 10 invites travelers to marvel at the surreal beauty that unfurls on an impossible scale in the landscapes of West Texas.

Monahans Sandhills State Park

The Sands of Time

The Sahara Desert does not hold a monopoly on picturesque sand dunes. Only two hours away from Marfa (and 6 hours from Austin), this state park preserves nature’s tranquility among its miles of snow-white dunes that roll as far as the eye can see. Monahans may be the only state park where kicking off shoes is encouraged – literally. Walking on the shifting sands that morph to create a natural tableau of soft monochrome colors and allowing the imagination to wander is a playful treat.

If something a touch more sporty is in order, be sure to borrow a sand disk to glide down the dunes as if they were the bunny slopes at a ski resort. The advantage over skiing here is the weather; even if the days live up to the reputation of the dry, desert heat, as soon as the sun sinks into a pool of crimson, rose, and indigo, the air becomes crisp, and the sky turns into a canvas filled with endless stars. Exit 86, 2500 I-20, Monahans, TX

TEAM PICKS: OUR FAVORITE STATE PARKS NEAR AUSTIN

• Colorado Bend State Park

• Blanco State Park

• Guadalupe River State Park

• Lost Maples State Natural Area

• Inks Lake State Park

• Pedernales Falls State Park

• South Llano River State Park

• McKinney Falls State Park

• Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

• Bastrop State Park

Balmorhea State Park

Just 30 minutes north of the Davis Mountains lies Balmorhea State Park, an oasis in the heart of the desert. Balmorhea boasts the world’s largest spring-fed pool. The crystal-clear waters here span 1.3 acres, holding 3.5 million gallons. At least 15 million gallons of water from San Solomon Springs flow through the pool each day. As if this gigantic spring-fed marvel wasn’t enough to view on its own, swimmers can take respite in the high Texas sun. Water temperatures fluctuate between 72 and 76 degrees year-round, making it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving in any season. Balmorhea's waters are home to Mexican tetra fish and the Texas spiny softshell turtle, in addition to the endangered Pecos gambusia and the Comanche Spring pupfish, which can be found nowhere else in the world. The park is an important habitat for numerous plant and animal species, including desert mule deer, javelinas, and a variety of bird species. The park's unique blend of desert and aquatic environments attracts visitors from all over the world which means reservations are highly recommended in the summer months. 9207 TX-17, Toyahvale, TX