PRESIDIO

Located in the most mountainous county in the state, Presidio rises above 8,000 feet in some places. Its position on the northern edge of the Chihuahuan Desert and just west of Big Bend National Park means that the average rainfall is only 8 to 12 inches per year. Presidio serves as the only legal border crossing between El Paso and Del Rio, making it the gateway to the interior of Mexico. The sunsets here are picturesque, and National Geographic has called the drive on East FM 170 one of the most scenic routes in North America. The south side of town affords a mountain-framed view of the city you won’t want to miss. Presidio has 70 economical and 6 moderate accommodations.

Fort Leaton Historic Site

Three miles east on FM 170, Presidio, 79845

432-229-3613

This huge adobe fortress, rebuilt in 1848 by infamous frontiersman Ben Leaton and his wife, Juana Pedraza, on the site of much older Spanish construction, served as a trade center for Indians as well as a supply house for the U.S. Army. Of the fort’s original 40 rooms, 24 have been restored. Exhibits portray the history of the area and the local Spanish and Mexican culture. Visitors can enjoy picnics at various areas and hiking on nature trails.

Open daily 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m. (closed Christmas).

Admission: $3, seniors $1, children 12 and under free; free with state park pass.