Activities...
The Ten Bits Ranch is located near many of the regions major attractions such as Big Bend National Park , Big Bend Ranch State Park and Terlingua's Historic Ghost Town. Opportunities for outdoor adventure abound in the Big Bend such as hiking, canoeing, rafting, ATV tours, Jeep® tours, horseback riding, bird watching and mountain biking. Insider information is always advantageous and at Ten Bits, we take pride in being available to share our knowledge and experience and to help guide you to the areas most exciting attractions.
At the Ranch:
After a day in the Park it’s always nice to kick back and watch the stars come out. Warm up by our cowboy campfire with your friends and family (please note: the Ranch does not provide alcoholic beverages so please bring your own) . There are no other lights out at the Ten Bits Ranch except for our own. We recommend you bring your own telescope and binoculars to view our picturesque West Texas night skies. This is a Perfect way to end a day in the desert.
Geology and archeology are fascinating elements of our Big Bend history which we'll be happy to share with you along with our historic mining heritage which began in the 1890's. In fact, booking a Jeep® tour can give you a close-up look at the "21" mercury mine and a Native American archeological site located near the Ten Bits Ranch. We also offer a 2 and 1/2 hour guided hike which focuses on Big Bend geology, paleontology and fossils. This is an easy hike and a fascinating look into the past. We also offer displays of dinosaur bone fossils and Native American artifacts for your enjoyment.
Wildlife abounds in the Big Bend and much of it can be seen from right here on the porch. We have several species of bats, reptiles and birds that inhabit the many grottos and canyons in the area. Mule Deer, Javelina, Bobcats, many species of birds and even the occasional Mountain Lion have been seen at the ranch.
On Tour:
Canoe/Rafting trips on the Rio Grande River, backcountry Jeep® /ATV tours, Mountain Biking rentals and horse back riding and tours can be arranged for you during your stay at the Ranch through Far Flung Outdoor Center, Big Bend River Tours, Desert Sports, and Study Butte Stables. We also offer one-of-a-kind geology, paleontology and archeological hiking tours personally guided by one of our staff. Please call or email us for availability of specialty guided tours.
Available Tours:
By Guided Hike: Lost World (2 and 1/2 hours, leaves at 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.)
This 2 and 1/2 hour guided hike focuses on Big Bend's Geologic and Archeological history. Personally guided by paleontologist Steve Wick, this tour is a great way to experience the wonder of Big Bend's fiery volcanic past and 75 million year old dinosaur fossils. We also take time to talk about the plants and animals that call Big Bend home and visit a Native American cliff shelter. This one-of-a-kind adventure is a fantastic way to learn about the many natural wonders of Big Bend. Tour involves a 1/2 mile hike over easy to moderate terrain, recommended for most ages - sturdy footwear required. Collecting is not permitted during this tour. For tour pricing please see our Rates & Reservations page. This tour was ranked the #1 thing to due in Big Bend by Suzy Banks in October 2007 issue of Texas Monthly.
Dinosaur Fossil Excavations (an all day adventure, starts at 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.)
Being a part of the collection of these rare and beautiful treasures is often an experience only dreamed of by many. We have several important and very interesting fossils localities which have already produced numerous hadrosaur (duck-billed dinosaur) bones, several ceratopsian (horned dinosaur) bones as well as tyrannosaur teeth. A partial crocodile as well as a beautifully preserved, freshwater turtle have also been discovered as well. Because of their potential importance to science , all fossils collected during excavation periods become property of the Ten Bits Ranch for donation to the Texas Memorial Museum at The University of Texas at Austin. Also, due to the discipline required and physical difficulties involved during the excavation of large vertebrate fossils, only those 12 years of age or older will qualify to excavate. Minors must be accompanied by a parent of legal guardian and all participants must sign a liability waiver upon arrival. Excavation are limited to 8 guest (2 guest minimum). Professional instruction and all materials needed for excavation (picks, brushes, gloves, etc.) are included. Please bring your lunch with you. Because this is an outdoor adventure, we highly recommend sunscreen, a hat, sturdy footwear and comfortable clothing. Call for reservation. For tour pricing please see our Rates & Reservations page.
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