Join us in building a living legacy across Texas.
It’s time for Texans to create a bold and daring adventure trail across Texas.
Let’s brand it xTx.
“Sometimes hard things are fun to do.”
More Links!
This month our Happy Hour will focus on Charlie, Pam Leblanc, and Nick Taylor’s adventures hiking Santa Elena Canyon in Big Bend National Park. For Charlie, this is an important alternative route for hikers on the xTexas Trail because of the availability of water. But fair warning! You need to be okay with water, mud, and swimming!1
We’re On Instagram!
Meet our growing group of ground-proofers
-
Charlie Gandy
xTx Trail Project Founder
-
Rhea Wallace
Cyclist - will proof the full 1,500 mile route
-
Moondog Roop
Thruskater & hiker - will proof the full 1,500 mile route
-
Tracy Kelly
Equestrian - will test ride the first 100 miles.
-
Nick Taylor
Hiker - joined Charlie for Santa Elena Canyon Big Bend hike.
-
“Let’s get it done! I’m 62 and a 7th generation Texan and the only thing on my bucket list is to do a point to point ride and there’s no better place than home. I am also an endurance rider and have the horses to do this. Can my dog come?”
Long-distance trails save lives
Books and movies have been made over the last 20 years documenting normal people struggling with life's problems who find new hope, fresh mental attitudes, healthier bodies and new friendships while taking on a big hairy goal - hiking a long-distance trail.
Long-distance trails such as the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) out west, the Appalachian Trail (AT) back east, or the Continental Divide Trail (CDT) which runs down the Rocky Mountain spine of the country are known in the hiking world as the “Triple Crown of Trails” and have a combined mileage of over 8,000 miles. They are more popular than ever, overcrowded some would say.
It’s time to add the xTx across the great state of Texas.
Long-distance trails support small towns & rural communities
Case studies galore demonstrate small towns being revitalized by abandoned rail tracks and obsolete backroads becoming vibrant long-distance trails.
These trails attract people from around the world looking for a different style of travel discovery. They prefer to stay in locally owned guesthouses, bed and breakfasts, or boutique hotels in historic small towns. They seek daily healthy activity fueled by good, local cuisine.
They want to learn the story of the place. What makes it special and unique? Who are the locals? How did they end up here? Then they go home and brag about their finds encourage their friends to do the same adventure and so the cycle of abundance grows.
xTx captures the unique flavors of Texas
xTx is designed to inspire and challenge a wide range of walking, horse, or bike-riding travelers to experience remote, quiet, naturally beautiful Texas.
From bayous in the east, through pine forests and hill country, grand rivers, pristine national parks, and finally the drama of the desert, this is a meandering life-affirming adventure through the heart of Texas.
Come challenge yourself against a beautifully badass standard in a foreign, exotic place - remote Texas.
Bold and Daring, Always Seeking Success = BADASS
