On our way to Big Bend, we made a brief fuel stop in Marathon.  The town, named after the plains of Greece by ex-sea captain Albion E. Shepard, is the only sign of civilization south of I-10 on the way to Big Bend.

The Gage Hotel, renovated in period decor, looks to be a neat place to relax and spend a day or two.  

There is a quarter-mile walking trail at Gage Gardens, where one can take a quiet stroll.