Exploring Big Bend: Buena Suerte

Looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure in the Big Bend area? We just explored Buena Suerte, a ghost town and former mining spot that’s the perfect excuse for a desert getaway.

This trip with us has been on my dad’s radar for a while, and we finally got a day off after our busy season. For those who don’t know us yet, my dad and I are super close. When my husband and I moved to Terlingua after buying a little pizza place, my dad wasn’t far behind. We're lucky to have him as our personal guide, and he also runs Jeep and ATV tours with Far Flung. If you’re interested in booking a tour, give Far Flung a call for more details!

We set out for Buena Suerte, and I’d recommend having a guide if you want to access the site by vehicle. I can’t even begin to describe how much I loved this trip.

Along the way, we took time to snap photos and explore the land. The road to the ghost town is part of the Marfa-Terlingua Road, which was the original route from the mines to the towns. Just imagine the people who once made this trek. The history blows my mind sometimes.

One of the things I love most about living here is the plant life. We spotted a few living rock cacti, and I learned that they’re actually protected due to being an endangered species of wild flora. We also took a moment to admire the stunning limestone and gypsum – it looked like a mountain full of diamonds! Gypsum is used in a wide range of applications, from drywall to certain foods and pharmaceuticals. This stop was one of my favorites.

When we arrived at the ghost town, I was absolutely blown away. From what I understand, the Fresno mines began operations in the 1940s and ceased in 1973. During both world wars, the United States was the leading producer of mercury, so this area primarily served as housing for the mine workers. There was even a post office here at one point.

We wandered through the grounds, soaking in the history and the breathtaking views. Can you imagine this place once buzzing with life? My dad then took us to the Fresno Mine, where we got to see the remnants of the entire operation. I love history, and it’s fascinating to imagine what it would’ve been like back in its prime.

This place is filled with stunning plants, wildlife, and a deep history that takes you back in time. I highly recommend booking a trip to see Buena Suerte. If you’re heading to the Big Bend area, be sure to ask for Chris at Far Flung. I can promise you an unforgettable experience!

See ya out west!

-Mallory