The Stunning Texas Drive That Is One Of The Best Road Trips You Can Take In America
We’re firm believers that Texas is the most naturally beautiful state in America. Our state has it all: beaches, mountains, wetlands, plains… it’s basically an entire country all by itself! The vast expanses of the West Texas desert and Panhandle plains offer some of the best scenery in the Lone Star State, from towering peaks to ancient canyons. This road trip takes you to some of the most beautiful places in Texas, and it’s among the best drives you can take in America.
Here’s the Google Map for the trip – feel free to adjust the route to your liking.
One of only two national parks in Texas, Big Bend encompasses over a million acres of rugged desert landscape. The peaks of the iconic Chisos Mountains threaten to pierce the clouds, and more than 150 miles of multiuse trails allow for boundless exploration.
Whether you're in the mood for a hike or prefer staying in the comfort of your own vehicle, there are lots of different ways to enjoy the scenery.
All ages and skill levels are welcome, too. Short and easy adventures abound, like the 1.4-mile round-trip hike through Santa Elena Canyon, perhaps the most photographed natural wonder in the park. On the other hand, the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive takes you to all the best sightseeing spots with zero effort on your part (besides pressing the gas pedal.) Learn more on the National Park Service website.
2. Monahans Sandhills State Park (Monahans)
Monahans Sandhills State Park, Exit 86, 2500 I-20, Monahans, TX 79756, USA
Can you believe this is Texas and not the Sahara? Monahans Sandhills State Park is a hidden gem where towering sand dunes create the ultimate playground. Hop on a disk and go soaring down their undulating peaks and valleys - the whole family is sure to have a blast. Learn more on the Texas Parks & Wildlife website.
Texas' other national park, Guadalupe Mountains, is definitely lesser-known than Big Bend. We're on a mission to change that, however, as this mystical place is one of the most incredible destinations you'll ever visit.
Home to all four of the tallest mountains in Texas, the park is a hiker's paradise.
Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Salt Flat, TX 79847, USA
If you aren't up for a strenuous trek, have no fear. You can see all the same breathtaking views on U.S. Highway 62/180, which meanders through the park near the Pine Springs Visitor Center. Learn more on the National Park Service website.
There are over 30 miles of trails for visitors to embark on, with the Lighthouse Trail being the most famous among them. Learn more on the Texas Parks & Wildlife website.
Would you take this road trip to some of the most beautiful places in Texas? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below! Don’t forget to check out our previous article for another road trip that will show you how stunning Texas truly is.
Address: Big Bend National Park, TX, USA
Address: Monahans Sandhills State Park, Exit 86, 2500 I-20, Monahans, TX 79756, USA
Address: Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Salt Flat, TX 79847, USA
Address: Palo Duro Canyon State Park, 11450 State Hwy Park Rd 5, Canyon, TX 79015, USA
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and changed her major twice (psychology, computer science, and finally criminal justice) before taking a leap of faith and dropping out to pursue a career in freelance writing.
Today, Katie writes for the Texas and Arizona pages of OnlyInYourState.com and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on the sofa with a hot cup of coffee, watching a crime TV show or scary movie.
