The drive
US 90 runs east from Marfa, the westernmost town on the highway, over Paisano Pass to Alpine, then across grassland to Marathon. It is about 57 miles of open Chihuahuan Desert with the Davis Mountains behind, mostly straight with a few sweeps.
Alpine, about 26 miles east of Marfa, is where US 67, US 90 and Texas 118 meet. Marathon lies about 31 miles farther, and the Gage Hotel there opened in 1927, built by the cattle baron Alfred Gage. Its architect, Henry Trost, also designed the Hotel Paisano in Marfa.
Marathon is the gateway to Big Bend National Park: US 385 runs south from town, and the north entrance is about 30 miles away.
Along the way
- Marfa (US-90 east)
- Alpine
- Marathon (US-90)
Good to know
- Distances between towns are long and the road is mostly straight; Alpine is the main stop between Marfa and Marathon.
- US 385 runs south from Marathon to Big Bend National Park; this drive ends in Marathon.
- The climb over Paisano Pass comes between Marfa and Alpine.
Open all year, weather permitting. Roads close for snow, fire, storms and repairs: before you set off, check TxDOT DriveTexas.
Questions about this drive
How long does US 90 from Marfa to Marathon take?
US 90 from Marfa to Marathon is 55.8 miles and takes about an hour.
How far is Marathon from Big Bend National Park?
From Marathon, US 385 leads south to the north entrance of Big Bend National Park, about 30 miles away.
What is Paisano Pass?
Paisano Pass is the climb on US 90 between Marfa and Alpine, with Paisano Peak rising beside the winding highway.
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More drives near here
Distance, time, elevation, curves and intensity are from Carve's route. Checked 2026-10-28.