The Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center right outside of Fort Davis, Texas offers more than 500 acres of rolling grasslands, oak- covered hills and shaded canyons. Visitors have 20 acres of desert botanical gardens to discover as well as a greenhouse with 200 species of cacti and succulents. A Chihuahuan Desert Mining Heritage Exhibit stands near the entrance to the visitor’s center which houses interpretive exhibits and a delightful gift shop. A Wildscape Demonstration Garden attracts butterflies, hummingbirds and other wildlife. A 1.75 mile hiking trail will take you down into Modesta Canyon, home to cooling springs, small pools of water and the lowest point at the nature center, A 2.25 mile Outside Loop hike will take you to Clayton’s Overlook, the highest point at the nature center, and home to an exhibit featuring geology, geography and history of the area. Both of these trails are rocky and considered moderate to difficult. The Hummingbird & Butterfly Trail, at 1/3 mile is considered easy however it is rocky. The Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center is open from 9AM-5PM Monday through Saturday year round. Admission is $5. Children under the age of 12 are free. The Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center is located 4 miles south of the town of Fort Davis, Texas on Hwy 118. The story of the Chihuahuan Desert is best told with photos. www.cdri.org
