Landmark 21 km southwest of Cuatrociénegas
An abandoned travertine quarry south of Cuatrociénegas whose straight-cut walls look like ancient ruins; evening light shows some nights.
The Minas de Mármol are an old quarry on the Loma de San Marcos, more than 23 kilometers south of Cuatrociénegas along the highway to Torreón. For years workers cut blocks of travertine here, a stone similar to marble, until extraction stopped in the 1990s to protect the region's natural resources.
What they left behind is strangely beautiful. The hillside is carved into sheer, perfectly straight walls and giant stepped blocks, and walking among them feels like exploring the ruins of some ancient temple. From the top there are wide views over the valley and the mountains around it.
You can explore the quarry on foot or by bike, and it is one of the most photographed spots in the area. On some evenings, local operators run night visits with video projections on the stone walls and stargazing under the very dark desert sky.
What to see and do
Walk or bike among the straight-cut travertine walls and blocks.
Climb to the top for views over the valley.
Photograph the quarry in the warm late-afternoon light.
Join an evening visit with video projections and stargazing, when offered.
Getting there
From Cuatrociénegas, take Federal Highway 30 toward San Pedro de las Colonias and Torreón for a little over 23 kilometers; the quarry entrance is on the left and visible from the road, about 25 minutes from town. There is a small entrance fee. The site has no shade, so bring water, a hat, and sunscreen.
21 km southwest of Cuatrociénegas
Directions from Cuatrociénegas on Google Maps
Distances are in a straight line; the road is usually longer.
Plan your trip
Places to stay in Minas de Mármol
Compare hotels, posadas, and rentals in and around Minas de Mármol.
Tours & activities
Guided tours, tastings, and day trips in and around Minas de Mármol.
Links open a partner site. We may earn a commission if you book, at no cost to you.
Weather warm
Minas de Mármol shares the climate of Cuatrociénegas, 21 km away. The best months to visit are Jan, Mar, Apr, Nov.
Make Cuatrociénegas your base
Minas de Mármol is an easy trip from Cuatrociénegas, a Pueblo Mágico with places to stay, food, and more to see.
More around Cuatrociénegas
-
Poza Azul
· Nature reserve · 9 km away
The turquoise spring pool at the heart of the Cuatrociénegas reserve, with a visitor center and trails. No swimming. -
Río Mezquites
· Nature reserve · 9 km away
A clear, spring-fed river near Cuatrociénegas where swimming is allowed, with endemic fish and turtles under the surface. -
Las Playitas
· Nature reserve · 10 km away
A private nature park of clear channels and lagoons east of Cuatrociénegas, with kayaks, bike trails, and guided visits. -
Dunas de Yeso
· Nature reserve · 18 km away
Brilliant white gypsum dunes south of Cuatrociénegas, left by an ancient sea; visits only with a licensed guide.
Location from OpenStreetMap. Written by Puebloteca.