David Gold Hiking Tours Join us for a West Texas Active Adventure Tour February 14 21, 2017 Led by David Gold and Ulrike Porat The Big Bend area of West Texas is one of the most remote, and least visited parts of the country. Only about 300,000 people come to the National Park each year compared to 5 million who visit the Grand Canyon. The park is bigger than Rhode Island and the most biologically diverse of any national park. It is the largest protected area of Chihuahuan desert in the US and offers a unique cultural landscape. What we offer: An active tour with a special mix of hiking, rafting, relaxing, music, art, and other activities.
Three hikes in Big Bend National Park, staying at Chisos Mountain Lodge in the heart of the park A star party at an observatory. World famous Carlsbad Caverns. More hiking opportunities in Ft. Davis and Big Bend River State Park. Optional rafting on the Rio Grande, the 5th largest river in the US and among the top 25 in the world. The Big Bend Ranch while staying at the Lajitas Resort, where you can arrange for horseback riding, hiking, spa services, biking and other activities. All transportation from Albuquerque or Santa Fe, NM. Active Tour This tour is designed for people who enjoy being physically active. We incorporate interesting adventures each day, to create a connection to this fascinating landscape. We selected the optimal time of year, when the weather is cool and conducive to outdoor fun and adventure. Music and Art Valentine's Day country-western and ranchera concert in tiny Valentine, Texas. Marfa, Texas, known for an eclectic art scene and home to giant Donald Judd sculptural installations. We may be able to see the "supernatural" lights that residents claim visit the area from time to time. A Star Party at the McDonald Observatory. Ft. Davis to explore the historic fort, hike, and visit the Chihuahuan Desert Research Center ITINERARY Day One, February 14. Departure from Santa Fe or Albuquerque, 8AM for drive to Valentine, Texas (population 300), home of the 5 th Annual Valentine s Day Concert. We'll arrive approximately 5 pm in time for genuine country western and ranchera music sponsored by the local Big Bend Brewing Company. Great opportunities for dancing and chowing down on home-made barbeque and fixings provided by local folks and food trucks. Then depart for hotel in Marfa, arriving about 8:30 pm. Hotel: the Historic El Paisano.
Day Two, February 15. Art tours in Marfa, including the Chinati Foundation and other art galleries. Free time. Evening jaunt to search for the unexplained and elusive Marfa lights. Hotel: Hotel El Paisano. Day Three, February 16. Drive to old mining town of Terlingua for exploration. Drive to Big Bend National Park. Arrive in time for beautiful Window Rock hike. Hotel--Chisos Mountain Lodge in heart of the park. Day Four, February 17. Guided river trip or fabulous full day hike in Big Bend. Hotel--Chisos Mountain Lodge. Day Five, February 18. Morning hike in Big Bend--Lone Mine Hike. Drive to Ft. Davis. Visit the Chihuahuan Desert Research Center. Evening Star Party at McDonald Observatory. Hotel-- Indian Lodge. Day Six, February 19. Morning tour of historic Ft. Davis. Optional hike to viewpoint. Scenic drive to Lajitas along the Rio Grande. Afternoon free at Lajitas Resort and optional hike at Big Bend Ranch State Park. Hotel: Lajitas Golf Resort. Day Seven, February 20. Lajitas. Morning on your own for hike, spa treatments or relaxing. Early pm departure for Carlsbad, New Mexico. Hotel: Carlsbad. Day Eight, February 21. Morning trip to Carlsbad Caverns, then return to Albuquerque or Santa Fe. About David Gold David Gold has organized groups on hiking adventures for seven years. He is an expert route-finder and trail leader. David ensures participants have fun and safe outdoor adventures in a variety of terrain, from high alpine trails to desert arroyos. He also is a professional mediator and group facilitator, electronic engineer, tai chi teacher, and lead guitarist for an electric Santa Fe band. About Ulrike Porat Co-leader Ulrike Porat is experienced outdoor adventurer. She is a professional tour guide and has many years of corporate logistics experience. Ulrike has gone on hundreds of hikes and once rode 500 miles on a bicycle over a weekend.
REGISTRATION FORM: My feet are itching to go! PRICE--$2195 ($1995 early bird special till Oct 1) including: Pick up and return to the Albuquerque airport Comfortable van transportation All guides, entry fees, All lodging 7 breakfasts, 7 lunches (some sandwich or equivalent for outdoor adventures), 4 dinners (Single supplement rates on request). Enclosed is my registration deposit of $500 per person. Gratuities for professional guides and other services not included. Program subject to change without notice. Cancellations prior to 60 days prior to departure: Refund: 50% of total price. Less than 60 days: No refund. Travel insurance is highly recommended. Total balance due December 1, 2016 Name Address No. of people Phone_( ) email Make checks payable to: David Gold LLC Address 362 Calle Colina, Santa Fe, NM 87501 Phone 505-577-7557 email: dave@nets.com