Planning Midland to El Paso scenic road trips is one of the best ways to experience the dramatic landscapes of West Texas, from endless desert highways to mountain views and historic towns.
West Texas is built for road trips. Long open highways, dramatic desert landscapes, mountain passes, and small towns that feel untouched by time. A drive from Midland to El Paso doesn’t have to be boring or rushed. With the right route, it can become the highlight of your journey.
Below are five scenic road trip routes from Midland to El Paso, each with recommended hotel stops and practical winter driving tips.
If you enjoy long-distance drives, you’ll also love this Ultimate Route 66 road trip guide for planning another classic American journey.
1. Midland to El Paso Scenic Road Trip via I-20 & I-10
Distance: ~305 miles
Drive Time: 4.5–5 hours
Best For: First-time visitors, easy winter driving
This is the most direct and reliable route. While it’s straightforward, the vast desert views, oil fields, and open skies still make it a classic West Texas experience.
Suggested Stops
- Odessa – Quick food and fuel stop
- Fort Stockton – Ideal overnight break
Where to Stay (Fort Stockton)
- Budget-friendly chain hotels near I-10
- Easy parking and late check-in options
Winter Tips
- Watch for strong crosswinds
- Temperatures drop fast after sunset
- Keep extra water in the car—desert dryness is real
2. Scenic Mountain Route via Guadalupe Mountains
Distance: ~340 miles
Drive Time: 6–7 hours
Best For: Nature lovers, photographers
This route detours south to the Guadalupe Mountains National Park, home to the highest peak in Texas. The landscape shifts dramatically from flat desert to rugged mountains.
Highlights
- Guadalupe Peak views
- Desert wildlife sightings
- Less traffic, more silence
Where to Stay
- Carlsbad (if extending the trip)
- Simple motels near the park entrance
Winter Tips
- Mountain roads can ice overnight
- Check weather before entering park roads
- Cell service is limited—download maps offline
3. Artsy Small-Town Route via Marfa
Distance: ~330 miles
Drive Time: 6 hours
Best For: Slow travel, culture, unique stops
This route takes you through Marfa, one of the most unusual towns in Texas—known for art installations, desert minimalism, and the mysterious Marfa Lights.
Highlights
- Prada Marfa art installation
- Local galleries and coffee shops
- Open desert photography spots
Where to Stay
- Boutique hotels and guesthouses in Marfa
- Simple lodges in Alpine
Winter Tips
- Nights get extremely cold
- Limited dining options—plan meals early
- Wildlife often crosses roads after dark
4. Big Bend Adventure Route (Long but Epic)
Distance: ~430 miles
Drive Time: 8–9 hours
Best For: National park lovers, adventure travelers
This is not a quick drive—but it’s unforgettable. Detour south to Big Bend National Park, one of the most remote and stunning areas in Texas.
Highlights
- Santa Elena Canyon
- Rio Grande viewpoints
- Dark sky stargazing
Where to Stay
- Lodges in Terlingua
- Hotels in Alpine for comfort
Winter Tips
- Fuel up before entering the park
- Carry blankets and emergency snacks
- Days are mild, nights can freeze
5. Historic Route via Fort Davis Scenic Loop
Distance: ~360 miles
Drive Time: 7 hours
Best For: History, scenic mountain roads
This route includes Fort Davis National Historic Site and the Fort Davis Scenic Loop—one of the most beautiful drives in West Texas.
Highlights
- Mountain curves and panoramic views
- Historic military fort
- Quiet, uncrowded roads
Where to Stay
- Small inns in Fort Davis
- Alpine hotels with mountain views
Winter Tips
- Mountain areas may see snow or ice
- Drive during daylight hours
- Keep tire pressure checked—cold affects it
General Winter Road Trip Tips for West Texas
Before starting your trip, always check current road and weather conditions using the official Texas Department of Transportation travel updates.
- Always check weather and road conditions before departure
- Keep a full fuel tank—towns are far apart
- Bring layers: mornings and nights are cold, afternoons can be warm
- Download offline maps and playlists (no signal zones are common)
Traveling These Routes by RV
These scenic drives between Midland and El Paso are ideal for RV travelers who want flexibility, wide-open highways, and easy access to overnight stops along the way.
👉 Find RV rentals, trip planners, and overnight RV stays for these West Texas road trips here.
Final Thoughts
A road trip from Midland to El Paso doesn’t have to be a straight shot. Whether you want mountains, art towns, national parks, or quiet desert highways, West Texas delivers—especially in winter when crowds are low and landscapes feel raw and powerful.
If you’re ready to plan your journey, you can view available hotels, seasonal deals, and nearby stays here to book the best option for your road trip.
These Midland to El Paso scenic road trips are perfect for travelers who want dramatic landscapes, relaxed driving, and memorable hotel stops across West Texas.