Routes, Drive Times & Road Tips to Big BendBig Bend sits deep in far West Texas. Whether you’re coming from El Paso, Midland/Odessa, San Antonio, Austin, Houston, or Dallas/Fort Worth, choose the route that matches your arrival town and the part of the park you want...
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Marathon, Texas Lodging
Marathon Motel & RV Park
Marathon Motel & RV Park is a historic accommodation destination established in 1940 and recently renovated, offering lodging in the heart of West Texas. Known as the Astronomy Motel, it is famous for its spectacular sunsets, world-class stargazing opportunities, and designation as a dark sky location. The property sits on 10 acres with 10 newly decorated rooms divided among four duplex cabins and 29 full-hookup RV sites, providing options for every type of traveler. Whether you are a serious astronomer, a casual stargazer, or simply someone who appreciates spectacular desert sunsets and star-filled skies, Marathon Motel has the perfect sky for you.
At a Glance
Location
701 HWY 90, Marathon, Big Bend Texas
Motel Rooms
The recently renovated motel rooms offer comfortable accommodations with modern amenities in a historic setting. Each of the 10 rooms is thoughtfully decorated and features air conditioning, free WiFi, and comfortable furnishings designed to help guests rest after days of adventure. The rooms are divided among four duplex cabins, providing privacy while maintaining the classic motel atmosphere. The adobe-walled courtyard with flowering native plants, a fireplace, and fountain provides a beautiful common area for guests to relax and enjoy the mountain views.
RV Park and Camping
The easy-to-navigate RV Park features 29 full hookup sites with 30/50 amp electricity, water, sewer, and cable television. The sites are designed for easy navigation and can accommodate rigs of various sizes. Camping sites are available in the rear of the property, providing seclusion, privacy, and beautiful mountain views for tent campers. The facilities include a dumping station, fresh water, and comprehensive services to make RV camping comfortable and convenient.
The Skypark
The Marathon Sky Park is a unique facility located a half mile west of the motel on approximately 3 acres, dedicated to astrophotography, stargazing, and enjoying the clear West Texas night skies. The Sky Park features concrete pads for telescope setup, power outlets for equipment, and dark skies rated among the best in North America. It is open to motel guests and visitors, making it a popular destination for astronomy clubs, astrophotographers, and anyone seeking to experience the universe in one of the darkest locations in the continental United States.
Gateway to Big Bend
Located at 701 Highway 90 in Marathon, Texas, the motel serves as an excellent gateway to Big Bend National Park (approximately 45 minutes away) while offering a peaceful retreat from the more crowded areas. Marathon, the self-proclaimed Gateway to Big Bend, provides a charming small-town experience with local restaurants, shops, and services. The property is featured on Texas Country Reporter and has been highlighted by KLST San Angelo, bringing national attention to this hidden gem of West Texas hospitality.
Explore More While You’re Here
Marathon Motel & RV Park pairs naturally with some of the most popular destinations in the Big Bend region.
Big Bend National Park
The Persimmon Gap entrance to Big Bend National Park is about 35 miles away on US-385, a straight shot toward the Chisos Mountains, Santa Elena Canyon, and the Rio Grande corridor. Plan a full day or more — the Chisos, Santa Elena Canyon, and the Rio Grande are all inside that gate.
Alpine
Alpine is about 25 miles away, home to Sul Ross State University, the Museum of the Big Bend, and a growing restaurant and brewery scene. Stock up here — groceries, a proper sit-down meal, and the museum — before the highway empties out south.
Terlingua Ghost Town
The historic Terlingua Ghost Town is about 65 miles away, with nearby dining and sightseeing that bring the area’s mining history to life. The old porches, the cemetery on the hill, and the nightly gathering at the Starlight Theatre are the usual finish to a Big Bend day.
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