FM 170: Study Butte to Lajitas

FM 170 · Study Butte → Lajitas

Leisurely17 mi25 min1,100 ft climbHigh point ≈ 3,100 ftOne way

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The drive

This is the eastern end of FM 170, known locally as the River Road, running west from Study Butte at Highway 118 to Lajitas. Study Butte is about 3 miles from the Big Bend National Park entrance. The road passes near Terlingua, a former mining community now known as a ghost town, and ends at Lajitas, on the Rio Grande. It is 17.0 miles and takes about 25 minutes.

At Lajitas the road permanently turns away from the Rio Grande, and the Barton Warnock Environmental Education Center sits just east of town. The River Road continues west beyond Lajitas as a separate drive, so this short stretch pairs well with it.

Along the way

Study Butte (Highway 118)
Lajitas

Elevation

1,100 ft of climbing · high point ≈ 3,100 ft

Study ButteLajitas

Curves

Mostly gentle curves

Study ButteLajitas

GentleHairpins

Good to know

Watch for livestock near the road in this ranch country.
Study Butte is about 3 miles from the Big Bend National Park entrance.

Open all year, weather permitting. Roads close for snow, fire, storms and repairs: before you set off, check TxDOT DriveTexas road conditions.

Questions about this drive

How long is FM 170 from Study Butte to Lajitas?

FM 170 from Study Butte to Lajitas is 17.0 miles and takes about 25 minutes.

What is the River Road in Texas?

FM 170 is known locally as the River Road. It runs about 114.6 miles along the Rio Grande through Presidio and Brewster counties.

Does FM 170 go through Terlingua?

Yes. The road passes near the ghost town of Terlingua between Study Butte and Lajitas.

What you get in the app

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Distance, time, elevation, curves and intensity are from Carve's route. Checked 2026-10-28.

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