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 scenic drive is one of the best road trips in Texas and among the most beautiful drives you can take in America.

Here’s the Google Map for the trip – feel free to adjust the route to your liking.

Google Maps

1. Big Bend National Park

Photography by Deb Snelson / Moment via Getty Images
Our first stop on this Texas road trip is one of only two national parks in the state. 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 multi-use 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.
Big Bend National Park, TX, USA
Photography by Deb Snelson/Moment via Getty Images
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. Guadalupe Mountains National Park (Salt Flat)

Gary L. Button, Architect / Moment via Getty Images
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.

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Home to all four of the tallest mountains in Texas, the park is a hiker's paradise.
Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Dell City, TX 79847, USA
RobertWaltman/iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images
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.

3. Monahans Sandhills State Park (Monahans)

Monahans Sandhills State Park, Exit 86, 2500 I-20, Monahans, TX 79756, USA
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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.

4. Palo Duro Canyon State Park (Canyon)

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Our final stop on this scenic drive in Texas is Palo Duro Canyon State Park, also known as the second-largest canyon in all of America.
Paling in comparison only to the Grand Canyon itself, Palo Duro is characterized by its vast expanse of red rocks that extends far as the eye can see.
Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Canyon, TX 79015, USA
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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 scenic places in Texas? Do you think it’s one of the best road trips in Texas? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below! And when you’re ready to hit the open road, be sure to consult the OnlyInYourState road trip essentials guide that will make packing a breeze.

Don’t forget to check out our previous article for another road trip in Texas that will show you how stunning the state truly is.

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BEST SCENIC PLACES IN TEXAS & RELATED INFO

Melanie J. | December 07, 2022

What are the best scenic places in Texas?

It is no secret that there are some incredibly beautiful places in the Lone Star State. But here’s a list of the best scenic places in Texas:


While these are just a few of the best scenic places in Texas, there are many others that are worthy of your bucket list. And here’s another article about some of the most scenic places in Texas. 

What are some places to visit on a road trip in Texas?

The best road trip in Texas would include seeing some of the hidden gems in the state. Here is a list of a few of them:


Here’s a previous article with some more incredible hidden gems in the Lone Star State that would be great for a road trip in Texas. 

What are some towns that are perfect for a road trip in Texas?

Some of the best towns in America are located right here in the Lone Star State. Here are a few of the best towns that are worthy of a road trip in Texas:


These are just a few of the beautiful towns that are perfect for a road trip in Texas. Here’s a previous article about some more towns in the Lone Star State that are worthy of a road trip. 

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