Although America has 184 National Scenic Byways, not one Texas scenic byway has made the list. In the largest state of the Lower 48 there seems to be plenty of territory that could qualify for this national designation, such as this route along the western section of the Big Bend Region.
   This scenic view captures a section of Texas Route 170 known as the Farm to Market Road. Also called River Road by the locals, this route follows the Rio Grande River as it forms the international boundary between the United States and Mexico.
   From Lajitas, the Barton Warnock Environmental Education Center showcases the area's Chihuahuan Desert. To the north the Big Bend Ranch, largest state park in Texas, encompasses almost 300,000 acres. This drive offers countless miles of rugged mountain landscapes, 23 miles of Rio Grand (Rio Bravo) river views, and access to 60 miles of back-country trails. Biking and horseback riding offer appealing alternatives to taking on this harsh terrain on foot. Whether your time is spent taking part in a three day longhorn cattle drive, rafting on the Rio Grand, or hiking the desert in search of rare feathered friends, the Big Bend area is loaded with recreation ideas and countless miles of rugged beauty.

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