Mission

The mission of the Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute (CDRI Nature Center) is to promote public awareness, appreciation, and concern for nature generally and the natural diversity of the Chihuahuan Desert region specifically, through education, the visitor experience and through the support of research.

Located 4 miles SE of Fort Davis on Hwy 118, the Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center is comprised of semi-desert grasslands and igneous rock outcrops with a riparian canyon and spectacular views from all directions. Visitors may explore more than 5 miles of hiking trails from the moderate to the strenuous 1.75 mile Modesta Canyon Trail that leads into a hidden canyon featuring a series of permanent springs and pools to the moderate 1.0 mile Clayton's Overlook Trail which provides miles of breathtaking scenery from the overlook along with a Geology Exhibit to the 2.25 mile Outer Loop Trail to several smaller 0.5 mile trails, as well.

The 0.5 mile winding path through the Botanical Gardens offers a variety of trees and shrubs native to the Chihuahuan Desert region. Halfway through the gardens is the Cactus and Succulent Greenhouse featuring one of the finest collections of cacti and succulents from the Chihuahuan Desert region. Many of the 165 species and subspecies bloom in early spring, providing a profusion of color and texture.

Additional features at the CDRI Nature Center include a Bird Blind with 30' long water feature, a replica of an 1880s silver mine at the Mining Heritage Exhibit, a geologic rock timeline in front of the Powell Visitor Center, and additional interpretive exhibits inside the Visitor Center, along with a thoughtful, nature-inspired collection of books and gift items in the Gift Shop. 

CDRI is a non-profit organization, open Monday-Saturday 9:00-5:00, also open on Sundays from mid-March thru November 12:30-5:30. Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Day.

Mailing Address
P.O. Box 905
Fort Davis, TX 79734
 
 

Contact Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center

REMINDER: This listing is a free service of LandCAN.
Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center is not employed by or affiliated with the Land Conservation Assistance Network, and the Network does not certify or guarantee their services. The reader must perform their own due diligence and use their own judgment in the selection of any professional.

Listed in:

• Education Programs
• Ecotourism
• Conservation Groups and Associations

Contact Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center

43869 Hwy 118, PO Box 905
Fort Davis, Texas  79734
Phone: 432-364-2499
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Service Area

Statewide service provider in:

• Texas

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