Winding through the remote beauty of West Texas, the River Road (FM 170) is one of the most scenic drives in the state — and possibly the entire country. This breathtaking stretch between Lajitas and Presidio hugs the Rio Grande, offering dramatic views of desert cliffs, winding canyons, and borderland solitude. Whether you’re chasing sunsets, snapping photos, or just soaking in the stillness, River Road offers a true escape. Our guide covers the best stops, seasonal travel tips, scenic viewpoints, and places to stay so you can explore this epic byway with ease.
The River Road refers to Farm-to-Market Road 170 (FM 170) in Far West Texas, running between the towns of Lajitas and Presidio, right along the Rio Grande River. It’s located within the Big Bend region, passing through Big Bend Ranch State Park. Known for its winding curves, jaw-dropping overlooks, and lack of development, it’s a favorite among photographers, motorcyclists, and road trip purists. Our guide shows where to begin, what direction to drive for the best views, and where to stop for rest or recreation.
Key stops include the Big Hill Overlook, one of the most iconic views in Texas; Closed Canyon Trail, a short slot canyon hike; Fresno Overlook for wide-open desert views; and Hot Springs Canyon Trail. Visitors can also enjoy Contrabando Movie Set, a preserved old-west set near Lajitas. Big Bend Ranch State Park offers campgrounds, picnic areas, and trailheads right off the road. Our detailed route guide includes GPS pins, photography tips, and where to pull over for the best river and mountain views.
FM 170 is a well-paved two-lane road, accessible to most passenger vehicles, but drivers should be cautious — the road has sharp curves, steep grades, and limited guardrails in some sections. Cell service is spotty, and services like fuel or food are only available at the endpoints (Lajitas and Presidio). It’s best to drive during daylight hours and avoid the route during heavy rain. Our safety tips include best driving practices, emergency prep, and tips for RV or motorcycle travelers planning this route.
Fall through early spring (October to April) offers the best conditions for driving River Road. These months bring cooler temperatures, clearer skies, and ideal light for photography. Summer can be extremely hot and dangerous due to limited shade and high desert temps. Winter mornings can be chilly but manageable with layers. Our seasonal tips help you time your drive around ideal weather, lighting for photos, and avoid potential flash flood risks in the rainy season.
While there are no hotels directly on the River Road route, nearby towns offer excellent options. Lajitas Golf Resort offers luxury accommodations at the east end of the route. On the west side, Presidio has a few budget motels. For nature lovers, Big Bend Ranch State Park offers primitive and developed campsites along FM 170. Our guide lists camping permit info, lodging suggestions, and glamping options nearby so you can stay close to the route and enjoy both sunrise and stargazing.
Pack plenty of water, sun protection, snacks, a paper map or GPS device, and a full tank of gas before starting. Include a camera or phone with extra storage, a portable charger, binoculars for wildlife spotting, and hiking shoes if you plan to explore trails. Since services are limited, bring a small first-aid kit and flashlight as well. Our River Road packing checklist prepares you for safe, comfortable, and scenic travel through one of Texas’s most remote and beautiful corridors.
You can drive River Road in a single day (the main stretch is ~50 miles), but staying overnight enhances the experience. Camping inside Big Bend Ranch State Park or lodging in Lajitas or Presidio allows you to enjoy sunset views, night skies, and early morning solitude without rushing. A full day lets you stop for hikes, explore overlooks, and photograph key points without feeling pressed for time. Our guide includes one-day and two-day sample itineraries for all types of travelers.
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