There are three major routes to drive from the Dallas-Fort Worth area to Big Bend, take the fast way, or choose a more round about, scenic route.

A. The fastest route is to take I-20 about 350 mi.to Odessa, then follow the directions to Big Bend from Odessa
B. It is almost as fast, and perhaps more interesting, to go I-20 to Abilene, then take US 277 south to San Angelo, then US 67 to Fort Stockton. US  67 merges with I-10 east of Ft. Stockton. As you hit the eastern limits of Fort Stockton, look for the US 385 exit to  Big Bend National Park. For the fastest way to the National Park and Park Headquarters, follow US 385 south for about 55 miles until you hit US 90. Turn east (right) one half mile, and US 385 takes off to the left and continues to Park Entrance. The lovely town of Marathon is a mile east on US 90, last chance for gas, food, etc if you are going straight to the Park. From the turn off, Park entrance is 30 mi, headquarters another 39.  Note: Park speed limit is 45 except where slower. Be aware for wildife as well as drivers distracted by wildlife.

The quickest way to the west side of Big Bend National Park, including Terlingua, Study Butte, Lajitas, Santa Elena Canyon, and River Road is through Alpine. Follow US 67/ I-10 through Ft. Stockton 9 mi. to the Alpine exit. Head south (left) on US 67 for about 50 mi. Veer right 8 miles to Alpine. Enter Alpine, right after you pass Sul Ross State University, the road divides. Go about two blocks,  take a left on TX 118.  Go 80 mi. to Terlingua Junction.  Take a right on TX 170 for Terlingua, Lajitas and Big Bend Ranch State Park and River Road. From the Junction, keep going straight on TX 118 3 miles for Big Bend National Park entrance.

C. Another route from DFW to Big Bend is to take US 67 all the way through Stephenville, Brownwood, San Angelo, then pick up the route described above in example “B.”

By taking different routes to and from Big Bend, you can see lots of Texas.