Jim Kitchen, the man behind Alpine’s most enduring local mystery, leads morning hikes and shares the true story August 21–24
Alpine
For decades, hikers climbing Hancock Hill above Sul Ross State University have stumbled upon an unusual landmark near the summit: a metal office desk. Who put it there, and why, has it been the subject of local legend for 45 years? — until now.
Jim Kitchen, the man responsible for hauling the desk up the mountain nearly half a century ago, is returning to Alpine to finally tell the true story. From August 21–24, Kitchen will lead a series of morning hikes up Hancock Hill, sharing firsthand the story behind The Desk with visitors and locals alike.
Hike details
Dates: August 21–24, 2026
Time: 7 a.m. daily
Meeting Point: Hancock Hill Trailhead
Directions: Enter Sul Ross State University through Entrance 4 to reach the trailhead.
Difficulty: Moderate, with elevation change. Tennis shoes required; hiking boots recommended. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat.
Prefer to just hear the story?
For those unable to make the hike, Jim Kitchen will also share the story of The Desk in a special talk at the Museum of the Big Bend on Friday, August 21 at 1:30 p.m.
