McDonald Observatory
Mountain Trail Region
Established in 1933, McDonald Observatory is a research unit of The University of Texas at Austin and one of the world's leading centers for astronomical research, teaching, and public education and outreach. Observatory facilities are located atop Mount Locke and Mount Fowlkes in the Davis Mountains of West Texas, which offer some of the darkest night skies in the continental United States.
Visitors can see the Hobby-Eberly Telescope (the largest in North America) during the day and attend a Star Party during the evening. Schedules, tickets, and additional programming available at mcdonaldobservatory.org. Advance reservations recommended.
Amenities
- ADA
- Gift Shop
- On-site Parking
- Picnicking
- Restrooms
McDonald Observatory
3640 Dark Sky Drive
Fort Davis, TX 79734
Visitor Instructions
All visitors must check in at the Frank N Bash Visitor Center.
Admission
Free, program fees vary. Please check website.
Directions
Traveling East on Interstate 10 from El Paso: Take Highway 118 south at Kent for the 39-mile scenic drive to the observatory. Remember that the Observatory is on Central Time (El Paso is on Mountain Time – one hour earlier than the Observatory). Traveling West on Interstate 10: Take Highway 17 south at Balmorhea to Fort Davis, then Highway 118 north 16 miles following the signs to the Observatory. From Big Bend National Park: Take Highway 118 from Terlingua north through Alpine and Fort Davis to the Observatory. Approximately 112 miles.