About Us.

Located 4 miles SE of Fort Davis on Hwy 118, the Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute is a nonprofit organization established in December 1973. The 507- acre site is comprised of semi-desert grasslands and igneous rock outcrops. Our geologic features include Modesta Canyon, a unique riparian canyon with a year-round spring, and Clayton's Overlook, a dome with spectacular views from all directions with the Geologic Exhibit at the top of the Overlook. Open year-round, the Nature Center offers over five miles of hiking trails, in addition to the Desert Botanical Garden, the Cactus & Succulent Greenhouse, the Heritage Mining Exhibit, the Geologic Timeline display in front of the Powell Visitor Center, and Gift Shop.