The Best 5 Picturesque Routes in Texas

Even though Texas is vast, level, and warm during the summer, it also boasts extensive coastlines, vibrant cities, and excellent cuisine, especially Tex-Mex, Mexican, and barbecue. After Alaska, it is the second largest state with the most extensive highway network in America. However, its most breathtaking highways are hidden in distant areas, such as the northern region of the Texas Panhandle and the western areas near the Rio Grande and Mexico border. These remote destinations may take some time to reach, but as the popular saying goes, “Everything is Bigger in Texas,” implying that extended drives on vast stretches of roadway to access stunning attractions are an integral part of the Lone Star State adventure.

1. Big Bend & Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive
2. El Camino del Rio
3. Davis Mountains Loop
4. Texas Hill Country
5. Canyons of the Texas Panhandle

Big Bend & Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive – 260 miles

Starting from Marfa and passing through Alpine, Marathon, Persimmon Gap, Panther Junction, Rio Grande Village, Chisos Basin, down/back Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive to the west entrance of Big Bend

Davis Mountains Loop – 135 miles

Embark on a loop journey starting from Alpine to Fort Davis, circling back to Fort Davis, and continuing on to Balmorhea State Park

Map it!

The reference to the “Texas Alps” doesn’t point towards Houston’s skyline or the Runaway Mountain attraction at Six Flags Over Texas. With peaks soaring to 8,382 feet, the Davis Mountains, nicknamed the Texas Alps, offer an elevated sanctuary in the harsh Chihuahua Desert terrain. Situated centrally in West Texas, this picturesque drive is a convenient day expedition from either Marfa or Alpine, serving as potential base locations for exploring Big Bend. Departing from Marfa, the journey extends 17 miles northeast on State Highway 21 towards Fort Davis.

A more scenic route leads through Highway 118 northwest from Alpine. This path is also the shortest way to reach the initial stop, the Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute, 21 miles from Alpine. Elevating to 5,100 feet above sea level, the facility provides over five miles of trails through grasslands, rock formations, and a canyon. Additional attractions encompass the Desert Botanical Gardens, Maxie Templeton Cactus Museum Collection, and Heritage Mining Exhibit.

Following the institute, proceed five miles to Fort Davis, positioned at an elevation of 5,050 feet. Holding the title of the highest town in Texas, Fort Davis offers lodging, RV parks, dining establishments, and an ice cream parlor. Exuding an Old West charm, venture to the Old Overland Trail Museum to delve into frontier history through memorabilia donated by pioneer descendants. The museum operates on Friday and Saturday afternoons. Fort Davis and the precursor settlement of Chihuahua emerged shortly after the establishment of the adjacent military outpost in 1854. Today, the Fort Davis National Historic Site conserves numerous ruins and buildings, including six structures meticulously restored and furnished in the style of the 1880s era. Hiking trails are also available, showcasing the pivotal role Fort Davis played in the settling and advancement of the American Southwest. Serving as a strategic post along the San Antonio – El Paso Road, a vital trade route to California, Fort Davis safeguarded freighters, mail coaches, settlers, and travelers until its closure in 1891. The fort also served as a prominent station for Buffalo Soldiers, African American cavalry units engaged in the American Indian Wars.

Traveling four miles west from Fort Davis on Highway 118 leads to Davis Mountains State Park. The highway meanders alongside Limpia Creek through Limpia Canyon, featuring captivating lava columns formed by volcanic eruptions that shaped the Davis Mountains approximately 35 million years ago. The park facilitates activities such as hiking, horseback riding, backpacking, birdwatching, and mountain biking. Accommodation options include camping grounds or reservations at Indian Lodge, the park’s historic 39-room motel offering a restaurant and swimming pool. The region’s high elevation, clear skies, and distance from urban light pollution make it ideal for stargazing.

Subsequently, the next destination garners international acclaim for its astronomical research. As Highway 118 exits the state park, it ascends into the Davis Mountains, presenting expansive panoramas of surrounding peaks, valleys, and deserts. Twelve miles ahead lies the McDonald Observatory, managed by the University of Texas. Perhaps you’re familiar with the observatory’s daily astronomy broadcasts or publication, both named StarDate. The Visitors Center incorporates a theater, science museum featuring interactive displays, a cafeteria, and souvenir shop. Guided tours of the research facilities alongside sun observation sessions are accessible during afternoons from Tuesday through Saturday. On Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday evenings post-sunset, return for “Star Parties” offering the chance to observe the moon, planets, and galaxies through expansive telescopes at the Public Observatory.

Continuation…At the McDonald Observatory, Highway 118 meanders northwest. Roughly nine miles away, keep an eye out for the Madera Canyon Trail parking spot. This 2.4-mile loop trail, known for its excellent opportunities to observe birds and wildlife and “no dogs allowed” policy, is well-liked by hikers and photographers.

After Madera Canyon, continue on Highway 118 for about six miles until you reach Highway 166, where you should take a left turn. While traveling the loop route in a southwest direction, you’ll easily spot Sawtooth Mountain in the distance, a standout feature along this scenic drive. Around eight miles into Highway 166, you’ll encounter another picturesque stone formation, Balance Rock. Keep an eye out for various wildlife such as pronghorn, deer, and sunbathing snakes on the road. In late summer, you may spot male tarantulas crossing the road in pursuit of romance. The Davis Mountains area is also home to a variety of animals including javelinas, black bears, bobcats, elk, mountain lions, and a diverse range of bird species and lizards.

As you pass Balance Rock, Highway 166 traverses grasslands, ranchlands, and desert over approximately 35 miles, curving south and then east toward Fort Davis. At the junction with Highway 17, it’s a 18-mile journey south to Marfa. Alternatively, turning left will take you back to Fort Davis after just two miles where Highway 118 leads you back to Alpine. Another option entails traveling 39 miles northeast of Fort Davis on Highway 17 to reach I-10. This stretch of road offers scenic views as it passes through additional volcanic terrain and lava formations before crossing the desert.

Approximately 32 miles from Fort Davis on Highway 17, you’ll arrive at the small community of Toyahvale. Taking a left onto FM 3078, you’ll find yourself two miles away from Mission Mary, now known as Calera Chapel, constructed by Mexican American settlers in the early 1900s. This charming, diminutive church is worth a quick visit before continuing west on I-10 toward El Paso. Opting to go right at Toyahvale and staying on Highway 17 will lead you to Balmorhea State Park on the right side of the road. The park offers camping and motel-style accommodations at the retro San Solomon Springs Courts. The main attraction is the world’s largest spring-fed swimming pool built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, perfect for swimming and scuba diving. Just seven miles away from the state park is I-10, providing access to destinations eastward including Fort Stockton and San Antonio.

Texas Hill Country – 213 miles

Follow the primary route from the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center to Fredericksburg and Medina before concluding in New Braunfels. Include an additional 88 miles for the Devil’s Backbone and 104 miles for the Lost Maples/Leakey diversions

Map 1: Main Itinerary

Map 2: Devil’s Backbone Detour

Map 3: Lost Maples and Leakey Detour

There are numerous reasons to explore Austin and San Antonio, two exceptional Texas cities renowned for their historical significance, culinary delights, and vibrant music scene. Just to the west of Austin and north of San Antonio lies Texas Hill Country, a region showcasing natural wonders, orchards, wineries, rich Lady Bird and LBJ history, and a blend of German American culture. Embark on this C-shaped road trip starting from the southwestern outskirts of Austin, moving west towards Fredericksburg, then south to Medina, before heading back eastward to culminate the journey in New Braunfels, situated northeast of San Antonio.

To immerse yourself in the distinctive terrain of the region, begin your journey at the 284-acre Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, positioned 12 miles southwest of downtown Austin. Established in 1982 by the former first lady and actress Helen Hayes, this center boasts meticulously cultivated gardens, preserved natural areas, an arboretum, the Wildflower Café, and the Shop & Gallery.

Upon exiting the Wildflower Center, venture towards US 290 and travel 22.5 miles west, where you’ll make a right turn onto FM 3232.Afterwards, it’s a journey of six miles north to Pedernales Falls State Park. Traveling westerly from Austin to the falls involves ascending the Edwards Plateau, an elevated area within central Texas. Several eons ago, a sea enveloped a large part of what later became the state. The marine sediments gave rise to sedimentary rocks that were thrust upward by tectonic forces. Subsequent erosion sculpted ridges, hills, and valleys. Within the state park, the Pedernales River has sculpted massive chunks of limestone into smooth channels and pools. While swimming isn’t permitted at the falls, you can bask in the sun on the rocks. Downstream, activities such as swimming, wading, tubing, and fishing are permissible. Camping, hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding are immensely popular, and the park also boasts a butterfly garden and birdwatching area.

Proceeding from Pedernales Falls, proceed 10 miles westerly to Johnson City. This travel plan offers a couple of impressive alternative pathways. Devil’s Backbone serves as the primary detour which can be accessed by driving 14 miles south of Johnson City on US 290 and US 281 toward Blanco. The quaint town offers a couple of intriguing attractions. The Buggy Barn Museum showcases over 250 buggies, carriages, and wagons from the 1840s to 1900s. An active Old West-themed film studio lies behind the museum. Adjacent to this, Blanco State Park sits along the banks of the Blanco River. The petite park offers amenities like camping, swimming, fishing, paddling, and picnicking. Subsequently, by proceeding two miles south of town on US 281, make a left onto FM 32 marking the commencement of Devil’s Backbone. This winding 23-mile route follows a limestone ridge, known as the “backbone,” and is rumored to be haunted. However, do not allow the specters of early settlers, Indigenous peoples, or car crash victims deter you from taking this remarkably scenic drive, especially charming during spring when Texas bluebonnets adorn the landscape from late March to April. The journey on Devil’s Backbone culminates in the quaint town of Wimberley, featuring tin-roofed eateries, boutiques, and galleries including Wimberley Glassworks offering complimentary glassblowing presentations. For an elevated view of the area, venture to Wimberley Zipline, or visit Blue Hole Regional Park, a natural swimming locale enveloped by cypress trees. A return to Blanco from Wimberley can be forged by tracing FM 2325 and FM 165.

Returning to the original cue and Johnson City, the subsequent part of the excursion is steeped in presidential heritage. Lyndon Johnson, the 36th president, was reared in this domain bearing his paternal lineage. The Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park is segregated into two parts. The former, in Johnson City, features LBJ’s Boyhood Residence and Johnson Settlement, the original abode of the president’s family. Thereafter, journey 14 miles westerly on US 290 to the second and notably larger segment housing the LBJ Ranch, a one-room schoolhouse, the Johnson Family Burial Ground where LBJ and Lady Bird rest eternally, and the “Texas White House,” the familial ranch dwelling.

Initiating from Johnson City and progressing on US 290 westerly to Stonewall and Fredericksburg, you’ll observe wine estates, orchards, and produce stalls. This region is renowned for its peach cultivation and also thrives in the growth of plums, strawberries, blackberries, and sundry vegetables. The Texas Hill Country is recognized as the nation’s third-largest American Viticultural Area, encompassing over 100 wineries, that offer wine tastings and, in certain instances, lodging and RV parking.

Departing from LBJ Ranch, it’s a journey of 18 miles to Fredericksburg, the pinnacle of tourism within Hill Country, boasting a vibrant downtown exuding a blend of western and Germanic influences. Established by German migrants in 1846, the town’s founding history can be explored through exhibits at the Pioneer Museum and Vereins Kirche Museum. For an extended stay in Fredericksburg, consider the 120-mile self-guided Gillespie County Country Schools Driving and Cycling Trails, highlighting 17 historic rural schools dating from 1847 to 1936. An additional must-see attraction is the National Museum of the Pacific War, strategically positioned in Fredericksburg due to native son Chester Nimitz’s command of the U.S. Pacific Fleet during World War II. Situated 17 miles north of town lies the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, featuring a notable colossal pink granite dome, along with opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, birdwatching, picnicking, stargazing, and camping.

From Fredericksburg, meander 24 miles southwest on Highway 16 through the Guadalupe River Valley to Kerrville, where the Museum of Western Art showcases displays on cowboys, ranching, indigenous peoples, settlers, and mountain men. History aficionados may seize an interest in the Schreiner Mansion, a structure crafted by German stonemasons from local limestone in 1879. Presently, it stands tall on the National Register of Historic Places, open for tours exclusively on Thursdays.

Departing from Kerrville, the odyssey’s secondary significant detour tracks Highway 27 westerly to Ingram and Highway 39 through Hunt. Subsequently, the path meanders southwest along the South Fork Guadalupe River, unfolding a scenic route. Twenty miles from Hunt, veer left onto FM 187 and proceed 14.5 miles to Lost Maples State Natural Area, where the Sabinal River has sculpted sheer canyon walls amidst rugged terrains. Preserving a grove of Uvalde bigtooth maples, the park emerges as a spectacular attraction, especially vibrant and popular during autumn. Activities like photography, birdwatching, wildlife observation, hiking, backpacking, fishing, stargazing, and camping are commonplace. For the motorcycle enthusiasts, consider a visit to the Lone Star Motorcycle Museum, located a mile from Lost Maples on FM 187, showcasing a collection of approximately 60 bikes from across the globe, ranging from the 1910s to contemporary times. Progressing south on FM 187, take a right in three miles onto FM 337, unlocking enchanting landscapes as the route meanders 15 miles through ravines and by cliffs leading to the quaint town of Leakey. The locale offers amenities such as fuel, a select few eateries, and Josh’s Frio River Outfitters encompassing gear, shuttle services, and a myriad of souvenirs. Return eastward from Leakey for 37 miles on FM 337 onwards to Medina, reintegrating into the primary plan.

Revisiting Kerrville, progress 24 miles southward on Highway 16 to Medina, recognized as the “Apple Capital of Texas.” Throughout the year, both Love Creek Orchards and The Apple Store offer delectable baked goods, gift items, and freshly procured seasonal apples. Subsequently, Highway 16 diverges southeastward through pastoral expanses to Bandera. Established by Polish immigrants in the 1850s, the town played a pivotal role in the grand Texas cattle drives of the late 1800s. Dubbed the “Cowboy Capital of the World,” the ranch theme permeates the western-themed downtown. With nightly musical performances, Saturday afternoon “shootouts,” guest ranches, and the Frontier Times Museum showcasing fun and offbeat exhibits on Texas history and cowboy ethos. The dioramas at the Bandera Natural History and Art Museum spotlight Texas Hill Country fauna and their habitats, while the New Spain Art Collection exhibits paintings, pottery, and sculptures from colonial Mexico.

Embarking upon Highway 16 to the east, and subsequently turning onto Highway 46, it’s a pathway of 24 miles from Bandera to Boerne, an additional captivating town steeped in Germanic heritage. At the Cibolo Nature Center, visitors can traverse miles of trails sprawling through five distinctive ecosystems bordering Cibolo Creek. On the opposing side of the water body, additional hiking opportunities are found at Herff Farm, complemented by community gardens and a vibrant Saturday farmers market spanning throughout the year. To escape the summer heat, delve into a guided subterranean expedition at Cascade Caverns, exploring its five stunning chambers.

Traveling eastward from Boerne via Highway 46, you’ll arrive at Guadelupe River State Park after 16 miles, characterized by sheer limestone bluffs, four natural rapids, and bald cypress trees lining the riverbanks. Visitors…Join us for a variety of activities including swimming, tubing, canoeing, and fishing. Additionally, there are opportunities for camping and exploring 13 miles of hiking and biking trails.

Head 31 miles east on Highway 46 to New Braunfels, a charming destination offering delectable BBQ, Tex-Mex cuisine, local breweries, wineries, quaint boutiques, and antique stores. For those with a youthful spirit, Schlitterbahn Waterpark awaits with its thrilling slides, refreshing pools, and relaxing river rides. Founded in 1845 by Germany’s Prince Carl of Solms, the city of New Braunfels boasts unique German-Texas architecture in the Gruene Historic District just a short drive north of town. This district features renovated 19^th century buildings housing restaurants, bars, gift shops, charming B&Bs, and the oldest dance hall in Texas. Discover two extraordinary cave experiences just outside New Braunfels, including Natural Bridge Caverns, Texas’ largest cavern with guided tours, and Bracken Cave, home to the world’s largest bat colony. Witness over 15 million Mexican free-tailed bats during their nightly insect hunt by making reservations in advance.

Explore the Canyons of the Texas Panhandle – 148 miles

Embark on a journey from Amarillo to Palo Duro Canyon and Caprock Canyons

View on map!

Embark on an unexpected journey through the scenic landscape around Amarillo. Despite the flat terrain in every direction from Amarillo, a spectacular sight awaits just 30 miles southeast of the city at Palo Duro Canyon, the second largest canyon in the United States. Continue your scenic drive southeast to Caprock Canyons, another breathtaking natural formation. This route showcases the upper segment of the Caprock Escarpment, a steep rocky slope serving as a natural border between the western High Plains and eastern North Central Plains. Stretching approximately 200 miles down the heart of the Texas Panhandle, Amarillo provides a perfect starting point from the north.

Enjoy various accommodations, RV parks, western-themed stores, and traditional steakhouses in Amarillo, a vibrant city showcasing authentic Lone Star culture. As the largest city in the Texas Panhandle, Amarillo offers a blend of modern amenities and historic charm, conveniently located between Oklahoma City and Albuquerque. Serving as a significant stop along Historic Route 66, Amarillo is the gateway to the area’s most renowned natural wonder located 17 miles south on I-27, exit 106, then east on Highway 216. After a scenic 11-mile drive through farmlands, you’ll be greeted by an 800-foot-deep, 120-mile-long canyon – Palo Duro Canyon.

Over millions of years, natural elements such as water, wind, rain, and snow have shaped the spectacular landscape of Palo Duro Canyon. The most breathtaking section is Palo Duro Canyon State Park, featuring a captivating sixteen-mile paved road that descends to the canyon floor, offering stunning vistas of multi-colored sedimentary rock layers spanning four geological eras. Marvel at the red, orange, yellow, and white hues adorning the surrounding buttes and pinnacles. Engage in activities such as hiking, biking, horseback riding, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting. Due to high demand, make early reservations for campsites and cabins. The park’s visitor center showcases archeological and nature exhibits, and offers authentic Southwest art and handmade Native American crafts including pottery, silver jewelry, turquoise ornaments, and hunting knives. Additionally, don’t miss the TEXAS Outdoor Musical performed during summer nights at the open-air amphitheater.

Departing from the visitor center, head west on Highway 217 and make a right onto Washington Street, then north, followed by another right onto FM 1151 leading to Claude, situated 45 miles from the vista center. From Claude, proceed south on Highway 207 to witness another perspective of the majestic Palo Duro Canyon as the landscapes transition from agricultural fields to the scenic marvel. Although not as dramatic as the state park, this view remains breathtaking as you descend to explore the canyon bottom crossing the Prairie Dog Town Fork of the Red River. The Spanish term Palo Duro translates to “hardwood,” referencing the juniper and mesquite vegetation thriving in the area.

Continue south on Highway 207 to Lake Mackenzie, located 41 miles from Claude, boasting facilities for camping, cabins, and water activities such as boating and fishing. Land-based recreational opportunities include hiking, birdwatching, and off-road ATV trails.

Traveling further south, Highway 207 leads to Tule Canyon, another picturesque canyon displaying striking rock formations bordered by vibrant wildflowers typical of the region’s scenic beauty and highway foliage.

As you journey south on Highway 207, then east on Highway 86, you’ll reach Silverton after an 11-mile drive from Lake Mackenzie. Silverton offers essential amenities, including fuel stations, an RV park, dining options, and shops. Embark on a 16-mile journey east on Highway 86 to reach Quitaque, a historic town offering similar conveniences. Explore the Comanchero Canyons Museum to learn about historical expeditions, bison significance, military conflicts, and the native Comancheros who traded with the plains tribes of northern and central New Mexico.

Merely three miles north of Quitaque lies Caprock Canyons State Park & Trailway, a natural wonder sculpted by water and wind into vivid canyons, bluffs, and magnificent stone structures resembling those in Palo Duro Canyon. The park’s scenic drive leads to overlooks and trailheads suitable for camping, hiking, biking, horseback riding, swimming, fishing, and no-wake boating on Lake Theo. Keep an eye out for wildlife including mule and white-tailed deer, coyotes, bobcats, and pronghorns. Notably, the park is home to the Texas State Bison Herd that roams freely, so remember to maintain a safe distance.

Located southeast of the park is the 64-mile Caprock Canyons Trailway, a converted rail line offering scenic views of ranchland and Quitaque Canyon before ascending the Caprock Escarpment. A highlight of this trail is Clarity Tunnel, a former railway tunnel inhabited by up to 500,000 Mexican free-tailed bats from April to October as they prepare for their seasonal migration south. The drive from Quitaque extends 100 miles to Amarillo or 90 miles to Lubbock.

Discover the intricate planning and dedication involved in designating the stunning Scenic Byways that showcase the natural beauty of our surroundings.