The Borderlands Research Institute (BRI) at Sul Ross State University has announced the schedule for the Fall 2025 Guided Hikes on Hancock Hill, a quarterly series led by subject-matter experts.

These moderately strenuous, 1.8-mile hikes offer participants an immersive blend of hands-on learning, regional insights and striking views of the Big Bend landscape, continuing a tradition that has long enriched the community.

All events begin at 9 a.m., typically span about two hours, and are free and open to the public, though space is limited to 12 participants per hike. Reservations are required and can be made online at www.sulross.edu/guided-hikes.

Fall schedule:

• Saturday, Sept. 13
  Guide: Chris Ritzi
  “Bugs” – Explore the often-overlooked insect life of Hancock Hill through the knowledgeable lens of BRI’s insect specialist.
• Saturday, Oct. 11
  Guide: Kevin Urbanczyk
  “Water Resources” – Gain insight into this region’s precious water systems with expertise from SRSU’s geology faculty.
• Saturday, Nov. 22 (ArtWalk Weekend)
  Guide: Matt Walter
  “Arthike: Alpine from Above” – Experience Alpine through an artistic and ecological aerial perspective during the annual ArtWalk celebrations.
• Saturday, Dec. 6
  Guide: Jesse Kelsch
  “Vistas through Geologic Time” – Travel back in time as this hike examines the geological layers and long-term natural changes shaping the view before you.

Guided Hikes on Hancock Hill are part of a collaborative initiative that includes the Borderlands Research Institute, the Center for Big Bend Studies, the Rio Grande Research Center and the SRSU Department of Geology.

For more details or to sign up for a hike, visit www.sulross.edu/guided-hikes, watch SRSU’s Facebook and Instagram channels, or contact the team via email at guidedhikes@sulross.edu.