U.S. 90 spans arid, primitive land little changed since pioneers first made their way across it in creaking wagons. One of the most formidable barriers to early-day travel-and civilization-was the precipitous canyon of the Pecos River. Modern travelers can pause and picnic in roadside park by U.S. 90 on east rim of canyon, about 18 miles east of Langtry. View is spectacular and provides insight into difficulties faced by pioneers who had to negotiate crossing without a bridge of any kind.