Terlingua Cemetery
A historic desert resting place, Terlingua Cemetery whispers tales of mercury miners and resilient souls amidst stark West Texas beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for exploring
Terlingua Cemetery
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic desert resting place, Terlingua Cemetery whispers tales of mercury miners and resilient souls amidst stark West Texas beauty.
"A serene and unique cemetery, reflecting the unique individuals interred here."
🚗 Accessing the Cemetery
The cemetery is adjacent to the ghost town, easily accessible by car. Parking is usually available nearby.
💧 Stay Hydrated!
The desert heat can be intense. Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Miner Graves
Main cemetery grounds
Discover the final resting places of early mercury miners and their families, a testament to Terlingua's rugged past.
Unique Grave Markers
Throughout the cemetery
Marvel at the eclectic and individualistic grave markers, reflecting the unique lives of those interred here.
Dia de los Muertos Celebration
Terlingua Ghost Town
Experience a vibrant cultural tradition as locals honor loved ones with decorations, music, and community gatherings.
Desert Sunset Views
Overlooking the cemetery
Witness breathtaking West Texas sunsets painting the desert sky with vibrant colors from this historic vantage point.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Desert's Quiet Charm
Respectful Exploration is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Accessing the Cemetery
The cemetery is adjacent to the ghost town, easily accessible by car. Parking is usually available nearby.
💧 Stay Hydrated!
The desert heat can be intense. Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
📸 Photography is Encouraged
Capture the unique atmosphere and history. Golden hour offers stunning light for photos. 
🙏 Respectful Visitor
Remember this is an active cemetery. Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid disturbing any graves.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Accessing the Cemetery
The cemetery is adjacent to the ghost town, easily accessible by car. Parking is usually available nearby.
💧 Stay Hydrated!
The desert heat can be intense. Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
📸 Photography is Encouraged
Capture the unique atmosphere and history. Golden hour offers stunning light for photos.
🙏 Respectful Visitor
Remember this is an active cemetery. Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid disturbing any graves.
🌟 Stargazing Gem
On clear nights, the lack of light pollution makes for spectacular stargazing.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Terlingua Cemetery to be a uniquely serene and historically rich site, offering a poignant glimpse into the lives of early miners and townsfolk. Its stark desert beauty and eclectic grave markers are frequently praised, especially during the vibrant Dia de los Muertos celebration. Some note the harshness of the desert environment and the need for preparedness.
"What could go wrong in a town mining mercury, right? Plenty of miners and victims of the flu epidemic of 1918 buried here along with a sundry of townsfolk from 1902 to the present. It was an interesting sight to see here in the harsh desert west of the Big Bend.
Another placard located here relates the story of the Villalba family and their interests and business in this area. He died in 1933 after watching the birth, heyday, and then slow decline of Terlingua."
Jeff Schmidt
"The uniqueness of Terlingua surrounds the entrance of Big Bend and is a must stop for anyone that decides to venture into these vast landscapes of beauty. I truly enjoyed the 30 or so minutes walking around the cemetery of Terlingua and taking photographs."
Frankie Hinds
"Those buried here include miners and families from 1900s/20the Century to current day.
Really eclectic. Each grave unique.
Next to the ghost town.
Stop and visit.
My favorite prayer from St. Gertrude for all the Holy Souls in Purgatory-
Eternal Father, I offer Thee the Most Precious Blood of Thy Divine Son, Jesus, in union with the Masses said throughout the world today, for all the Holy Souls in Purgatory, for sinners every where, for sinners in the universal church, those in my own home and within my family. Amen."
Auda Gee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Terlingua Cemetery is located right next to the Terlingua Ghost Town, a well-known landmark. It's easily accessible by car from Highway 170. Many visitors combine a visit to the cemetery with exploring the ghost town itself.
Yes, there is typically parking available near the cemetery and the adjacent ghost town. It's usually a casual setup, especially outside of major events.
While Terlingua is near Big Bend, it's not within walking distance. You'll need to drive from the park to Terlingua. The drive itself offers beautiful desert scenery.
The cemetery is a prominent feature of the Terlingua Ghost Town. Look for the distinctive grave markers as you approach the ghost town area. Signs may also be present.
Public transport options to Terlingua are very limited. Most visitors arrive by private vehicle, making it ideal for road trips.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to visit Terlingua Cemetery. It is an open, historic site accessible to the public.
The cemetery is generally open from dawn until dusk, as it's an outdoor historical site. There are no set operating hours.
Many photographers recommend visiting during the 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise or before sunset – for the most dramatic lighting.
While official guided tours might be rare, local residents or guides in the ghost town area may offer insights. It's also easy to explore independently.
Absolutely! The Dia de los Muertos celebration on November 2nd is a significant event here, drawing many visitors to decorate graves and participate in festivities.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find a unique collection of grave markers, from simple wooden crosses to more elaborate stones, reflecting the lives of miners, families, and townsfolk from the early 1900s to the present.
Most visitors spend around 30 minutes to an hour exploring the cemetery and taking photos, especially if combined with a ghost town visit.
Yes, children can visit, but it's important to supervise them closely due to the uneven terrain and the sensitive nature of a cemetery.
The terrain is typical of a desert cemetery – mostly flat but can be uneven with loose gravel and rocks. Sturdy footwear is recommended.
Restroom facilities are generally available in the nearby Terlingua Ghost Town, but water fountains are unlikely. It's best to bring your own water.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire cemetery offers unique photographic opportunities. Focus on the diverse grave markers, the vast desert landscape, and the dramatic West Texas skies.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check current FAA and local regulations before flying a drone in the area.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive desert views, while a prime lens can be useful for detailed shots of grave markers. A tripod is helpful for low-light photography.
Generally, photography is allowed and encouraged. However, always be respectful of any ongoing ceremonies or private memorials.
The stark desert beauty, the weathered grave markers, the history etched into the landscape, and the incredible sunsets create a uniquely photogenic environment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during cooler parts of the day, like mornings or late afternoons, to make the experience more comfortable for children. Combining the visit with the nearby Terlingua Ghost Town, which has more open spaces and quirky structures, can make for a more engaging outing for younger visitors.
📸 Photographers
+1Golden hour (sunrise and sunset) is particularly magical, casting long shadows and bathing the landscape in warm, rich tones. The Dia de los Muertos celebration offers a unique cultural photography experience, capturing vibrant traditions and community spirit.
Remember to be mindful of the environment and any ongoing ceremonies while capturing your shots.🚗 Road Trippers
Combine your visit with a stop at the Terlingua Ghost Town for a more complete historical experience. It's a great place to stretch your legs, take some photos, and learn about the hardy individuals who once called this harsh desert home. Don't forget to stock up on water and snacks before heading out, as services can be spread out in this region.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Terlingua's Mining Past
The decline of mercury prices and the eventual closure of the mines led to Terlingua becoming a ghost town. However, the spirit of the place endures, with a small but dedicated community remaining. The cemetery, though, remains a powerful symbol of the town's past, a place where the stories of those who built Terlingua are preserved in stone and wood. Visiting the cemetery offers a tangible connection to this unique chapter of Texas history.
Dia de los Muertos: A Vibrant Tradition
+2The celebration often includes music, community dinners, and bonfires, fostering a strong sense of togetherness. It's a time to honor the lives of those buried in the cemetery and to celebrate the continuity of life and memory. Many visitors find this event to be a particularly moving and memorable experience, offering a unique insight into the local culture and traditions.
The sheer number of people who gather for this event highlights its importance to the Terlingua community. Stargazing in the Dark Sky Preserve
+1Many visitors specifically plan their trips to Terlingua to experience the night sky. The area is part of a region known for its dark skies, offering an unparalleled celestial show. Whether you're an amateur astronomer or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of the night sky, the views from Terlingua are unforgettable.
Social
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