The Borderlands Research Institute at Sul Ross State University has released the fall 2025 schedule for its quarterly Guided Hikes on Hancock Hill, a long-running community series that blends outdoor education with West Texas scenery.
The hikes are 1.8 miles in length, moderately strenuous, and led by regional experts who offer perspectives on ecology, geology and art in the Big Bend. Each event begins at 9 a.m., runs about two hours, and is free to the public. Attendance is limited to 12 participants per hike, and advance reservations are required. Registration is available online at www.sulross.edu/guided-hikes.
Fall 2025 hike schedule:
- Sept. 13 – “Bugs” with Chris Ritzi: Explore insect life through the expertise of the BRI’s insect specialist.
- Oct. 11 – “Water Resources” with Kevin Urbanczyk: Learn about the geology and water systems of the Big Bend.
- Nov. 22 (ArtWalk Weekend) – “Arthike: Alpine from Above” with Matt Walter: An artistic and ecological look at Alpine during the town’s annual ArtWalk.
- Dec. 6 – “Vistas through Geologic Time” with Jesse Kelsch: A geologic overview of the region’s layered history and landscape.
The hikes are a joint initiative between the Borderlands Research Institute, the Center for Big Bend Studies, the Rio Grande Research Center and the Sul Ross Department of Geology.
Additional details, including how to sign up, are available at www.sulross.edu/guided-hikes. Updates can also be found via Sul Ross State University’s social media channels, or by emailing guidedhikes@sulross.edu.
Image Source: https://www.sulross.edu/schedule-for-srsus-fall-2025-guided-hikes-announced/
