Sidst opdateret i oktober 29, 2023

This hidden gem offers a variety of gardens, vandrestier, and exhibits, as well as one of the world’s largest Chihuahuan Desert cactus and succulent collections.

If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable experience in West Texas, be sure to add the Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute (CDRI) to your itinerary.

Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute, West Texas
Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute

This 507-acre nonprofit nature center is home to a variety of gardens, vandrestier, and exhibits, as well as one of the world’s largest Chihuahuan Desert cactus and succulent collections.

Grundlagt i 1973, the CDRI is dedicated to promoting public awareness and appreciation of the Chihuahuan Desert region.

The institute offers a variety of educational programs and events throughout the year, as well as self-guided tours of its gardens and trails.

One of the most popular attractions at the CDRI is the Maxie Templeton Cactus Museum Collection.

This museum houses over 200 species of cacti and succulents from all over the world, including many rare and endangered species.


Gardens and Trails

The CDRI features a variety of gardens that showcase the diverse plant life of the Chihuahuan Desert.

Visitors can wander through the cactus garden, the succulent garden, the native plant garden, and the hummingbird garden.

There are also several hiking trails that wind through the institute’s grounds, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Maxie Templeton Cactus Museum Collection boasts more than two hundred species, subspecies, and varieties of cacti and succulents.


Exhibits

The Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute’s exhibits are designed to teach visitors about the unique geology, klima, ecology, and wildlife of the Chihuahuan Desert.

Visitors can learn about the region’s ancient geological history, its harsh climate, and its diverse plant and animal life.

One of the most popular exhibits at the CDRI is the Maxie Templeton Cactus Museum Collection.

This collection features over 200 species of cacti and succulents from all over the world, including many rare and endangered species.

Visitors can learn about the different types of cacti and succulents, their adaptations to the desert environment, and their importance to the ecosystem.

Another popular exhibit is the Chihuahuan Desert Diorama.

This diorama depicts a typical Chihuahuan Desert landscape, with its diverse plants and animals.

Visitors can learn about the different types of habitats in the Chihuahuan Desert, and the interactions between the different plants and animals.

In addition to these permanent exhibits, the CDRI also hosts a variety of temporary exhibits throughout the year.

These exhibits focus on a variety of topics related to the Chihuahuan Desert, such as its Native American heritage, its unique plants and animals, and its environmental challenges.


Educational Programs

The Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute offers a variety of educational programs for all ages.

These programs are designed to teach visitors about the Chihuahuan Desert ecosystem and its importance.

One of the most popular educational programs at the CDRI is the guided tour.

Guided tours are offered daily and led by experienced educators.

Visitors can learn about the Chihuahuan Desert’s geology, klima, ecology, og dyreliv.

The CDRI also offers a variety of workshops and lectures throughout the year.

These workshops and lectures cover a variety of topics related to the Chihuahuan Desert, such as its plants and animals, its environmental challenges, and its Native American heritage.

In addition to its on-site programs, the CDRI also offers a variety of outreach programs.

These programs bring the Chihuahuan Desert to schools and community groups throughout West Texas.


Visitor Information

If you’re planning on visiting the CDRI, be sure to check the weather forecast and dress appropriately.

The best time to visit is during the spring and fall, når vejret er mildt.

Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute
Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute

Summers can be very hot in the Chihuahuan Desert, so it’s important to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.

Også, be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.

There are no food or beverage vendors on the premises, so be sure to bring a water bottle and snacks.

If you’re planning on hiking, be sure to check the weather forecast and dress appropriately.

Endelig, be respectful of the plant and animal life. The Chihuahuan Desert is a fragile ecosystem, so it’s important to leave no trace.


About the Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute

Det Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute (CDRI) is a 507-acre nonprofit nature center located in Fort Davis, Texas.

It is dedicated to promoting public awareness and appreciation of the Chihuahuan Desert region, and to supporting research and conservation efforts.

The CDRI was founded in 1973 by a group of local residents who were concerned about the preservation of the Chihuahuan Desert ecosystem.

The institute has since grown to become one of the leading voices in Chihuahuan Desert conservation.


Er på vej

The Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute is located west of Fort Davis, Texas, on State Highway 118. The entrance to the institute is about 4 miles south of Fort Davis.

The CDRI is open daily from 9am to 5pm. Entré er $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 6-12.

Here are some directions on how to get to the CDRI from various cities in Texas:

  • From El Paso: Take I-10 east to Fort Davis. Exit at State Highway 118 and head south for about 4 miles. The CDRI will be on your left.
  • From Midland/Odessa: Take US Highway 385 south to Fort Davis. Exit at State Highway 118 and head south for about 4 miles. The CDRI will be on your left.
  • From San Antonio: Take US Highway 90 west to Alpine. In Alpine, take State Highway 118 south to Fort Davis. The CDRI will be on your right about 4 miles south of Fort Davis.

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