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Texas

On the Road: San Antonio to Big Bend National Park

Program No. 20562RJ
Immerse yourself in the best of Texas as you visit remote state and national parks, explore Fort Davis Historic Site and stargaze at the McDonald Observatory.
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National ParksRegional StudiesOn the RoadNature & Environment
Length
8 days
Rating (4.9)
Activity Level
Starts at
2,749
Program
At a Glance
Duration
8 days
Program Begins
San Antonio, Texas
Program Concludes
San Antonio, Texas
Meals
19 ( 7B, 6L, 6D )
Activity Level
Explore Texas nature and culture from San Antonio’s Riverwalk to the mountains of Big Bend National Park. Cross the Chihuahuan Desert as a naturalist interprets all you see and scale the Chisos Mountains to explore Big Bend’s rugged landscapes. Visit Terlingua ghost town, Fort Davis National Historic Site and much more.
Best of all, you'll...
  • Explore the darkest skies in the country in a star party with an expert at the McDonald Observatory.
  • Travel back in time with a visit to Fort Davis National Historic Site.
  • See a wide variety of plants and wildlife as you journey through deserts and mountains of Big Bend National Park.
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General Notes
Consider enrolling in "San Antonio: Heart of the City, Heart of the Hill Country" (#22272) before or after this program to extend your exploration of Texas!
Featured Expert
All Experts
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Rebekah Rylander
Rebekah Rylander, a native Texan, has always had a passion for the local wildlife. She received her Ph.D. in wildlife biology from Texas State University and became the science coordinator for the Rio Grande Joint Venture where she designs and implements ornithological monitoring programs across Texas. She is a master bander and regularly gives presentations on banding and other conservation-related topics.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Please Note:
These experts may not be available for every date of the program
KT Cockerell, a native Texan, loves to share colorful Texas history with visitors. She enjoys the adventure of discovery while leading groups and in her own personal travels as well. She has traveled extensively throughout Europe and locally. KT has been involved with the travel industry for over 20 years. KT and her husband Alan enjoy living in the small rural town of Seguin, where they have raised their four daughters.
Rufus Stephens is a Certified Wildlife Biologist, an educator, and co-author with Jan Wrede of the book, “Attracting Birds in the Texas Hill Country: A Guide to Land Stewardship” by TAMU Press. He has worked as a wildlife biologist for 34 years, 23 years with TPWD. He is one of the founders of the Texas Master Naturalist program and, in recognition of this accomplishment, was a co-recipient of the Wildlife Management Institute’s award for innovation.
Rebekah Rylander, a native Texan, has always had a passion for the local wildlife. She received her Ph.D. in wildlife biology from Texas State University and became the science coordinator for the Rio Grande Joint Venture where she designs and implements ornithological monitoring programs across Texas. She is a master bander and regularly gives presentations on banding and other conservation-related topics.
Natallia Fodemski began her career as a group leader in 2009. She started a small business, and led private and group outings including hikes and adventures all over Colorado State, gradually adding other states. In 2019, she graduated from International Guide Academy in Denver with a Certificate of International Tour Director and Guide. She also has years of experience working as a program coordinator at the Center for Creative Leadership and at Colorado College Fine Art Museum.
Barbara Pankratz, whose family roots run deep in Texas, is a lifelong learner and educator whose passion is nature and history. An avid birder and Master Naturalist, she has led for festivals and groups in Texas. Barbara has birded in all 254 Texas counties and all but 14 states. In her spare time she hikes, camps and leads history discussion groups in Houston. Barbara lives in Comfort with her husband, James, and their two rescue dogs, Stella and Sadie.
Activity Level
On Your Feet
Walking up to three miles a day; Hiking up to one mile over varied terrain; Standing up to two hours in museums; Climbing two flights of stairs; Getting on/off coach multiple times a day unassisted; No porterage. Elevations up to 7,000 feet.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List (12 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
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Call 800-454-5768
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Peace of Mind

We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. That’s why we go to the ends of the earth to give you peace of mind, from the moment you enroll until the day you return home.

Assurance Plan

Road Scholar's continued commitment to our participants and their well-being is exemplified whether participating on a program in the United States or on one of our International programs, every Road Scholar participant receives coverage under our Road Scholar Assurance Plan.

Want to Protect Your Investment?

Road Scholar is pleased to offer its Trip Protection Plan as a way to protect your program investment. You may purchase this optional trip protection plan when enrolling in your program.

Sustainable Travel

We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Read about our commitment to a more sustainable planet.

  • Peace of Mind

    We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. That’s why we go to the ends of the earth to give you peace of mind, from the moment you enroll until the day you return home.

  • Assurance Plan

    Road Scholar's continued commitment to our participants and their well-being is exemplified whether participating on a program in the United States or on one of our International programs, every Road Scholar participant receives coverage under our Road Scholar Assurance Plan.

  • Want to Protect Your Investment?

    Road Scholar is pleased to offer its Trip Protection Plan as a way to protect your program investment. You may purchase this optional trip protection plan when enrolling in your program.

  • Sustainable Travel

    We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Read about our commitment to a more sustainable planet.