With how massive our state is, we have more open roads to explore than anywhere else (well, other than Alaska… but you get what I mean). Many of our highways run through untouched land with majestic mountains, towering trees, and flowing rivers rather than cities. Some of the very best scenic drives in Texas are tucked into the most unsuspecting landscapes. These nine drives are especially beautiful, and we highly recommend them for your summer road trips. Pack some road trip snacks, grab a map, and prepare some good tunes. This is one road trip you won’t want to miss out on!

1. Willow City Loop
Willow City Loop, Texas, USA
Flickr/davehensley
Every spring, thousands take this iconic, 13-mile drive to marvel at the abundance of vibrant wildflowers lining the roadway. To get to it from Fredericksburg, go north on State Route 16 until you reach Willow City, and then head east on Ranch Road 1323 before turning left on Willow City Loop.
2. Highway 90/385
Marathon, TX 79842, USA
Flickr/oneeighteen
The stretch of Highway 90 between Marathon and its intersection with Highway 285 is among the most gorgeous drives in Texas. You'll be heading towards Big Bend, so prepare to be awestruck by the foreboding, yet majestic Chisos Mountains drawing ever-closer with each passing mile.
3. Lonesome Highway
US Highway 285, US Hwy 285, Pecos, TX, USA
Flickr/sangre-la
It's easy to understand why the name "Lonesome Highway" was chosen for this remote West Texas drive. It's just you, the pavement, and the awe-inspiring Guadalupe Mountains - no big cities for hundreds of miles in any direction. To embark on this haunting journey yourself, head west on Highway 285 until it meets highway 180, then turn left.

4. Davis Mountains Scenic Loop
Davis Mountains, Texas 79734, USA
Flickr/cherieb
The highest publically-accessible road in Texas, this 75-mile loop sits at an elevation of 6,700 feet. You'll see mountains, canyons, eye-popping flowers, and even native wildlife along the way. The drive starts on Texas 118 in Fort Davis - you can't miss it!

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5. Texas Swiss Alps Scenic Drive
Bandera, TX 78003, USA
Flickr/bfs_man
You may not feel quite like you're in Switzerland, but you sure won't think you're still in Texas on this drive. The mountains are almost entirely covered in greenery - a rare sight in Texas, especially in the summer. You'll see the famous 2400 foot high rock faces in Leakey and gaze in awe at the sheer majesty surrounding you. The drive starts in Bandera on highway 470, which eventually becomes highway 83 in Concan. Then, you'll get on 337 in Leakey and follow it to Medina.
6. El Camino Real Highway
El Camino Real, Mission, TX 78572, USA
Flickr/mypubliclands
This highway, also known as Texas 21, has quite the history. It was used by Spanish missionaries and Native Americans as early as the 1700s. You can start at Toledo Bend Reservoir near Milam and follow it all the way to San Antonio if your heart desires. And it will - I guarantee you won't be able to quit driving after you take one mere glance at this stunning view.
7. Highway 207
Palo Duro Canyon, Texas 79226, USA
Flickr/sarowen
Not everyone knows this, but hiking isn't the only way to explore the Palo Duro Canyon. Highway 207 cuts right through the towering red bluffs, offering the same unparalleled views with none of the legwork.

8. Highway 16
Wichita Falls, TX, USA
Flickr/danielray
This is one of the longest highways in Texas, branching off of 281 south of Wichita Falls and extending across much of the state. You'll see the famous rolling hills of Central Texas, gorgeous bodies of water, a variety of plants, and so much more.
9. River Road
Flickr/cleopold
So named because it runs alongside the Rio Grande, River Road is the best way to experience Big Bend from the comfort of your own vehicle. The road connects the remote areas of Rio Grande Village and Castolon, and you'll need to allot a full day to drive it from end-to-end.

Have you ever been on one of the best scenic drives in Texas? What other stretches of highway in Texas are particularly scenic? Share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comments!

Craving more incomparable beauty? Our state is full of magnificent places that are worth visiting. If you need a bit of guidance, we recommend you start with a waterfall road trip to the most magical natural features in Texas. And don’t forget to check out our Ultimate Road Trip Packing List!

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More to Explore

Best Scenic Drives In Texas

Nikki Rhoades | March 22, 2020

What are the best roadside attractions in Texas?

Some of the best roadside attractions in Texas include:

  • Giant Dalmatian Fire Hydrant
  • Big Tamale Statue
  • Dino Bob
  • World's Largest Killer Bee

 

If you are not familiar with The Lone Star State, you may not realize that our proud landscape comprises the second-largest state in the nation. With 268,581 square miles, you’ll find all sorts of diverse habitats… and diverse people, as well. Some of our more unusual residents have installed roadside attractions in Texas that puzzle locals and tourists alike. You may spot a massive tamale, a giant smoke-breathing armadillo, and a leaning water tower. Don’t be alarmed, however – these are just quirky creations designed and installed by local minds.

Are there any other scenic backroads to drive along in Texas?

Some other scenic backroads in Texas include:

  • Highway 16
  • Canyon Sweep
  • Highway 207
  • Texas Lighthouse Trail Scenic Drive

 

There absolutely are scenic back roads in Texas! We have mountains, deserts, and lush forests with roads winding through them. It almost seems that you’ll be treated to beautiful landscapes no matter where you go! If you’re not certain of the best sightseeing roads in the area, simply find a local and ask for suggestions. If there’s one thing we Texans know how to do, it’s brag about what makes this state so magical.

Are there other similar things to do in Texas when you have a free afternoon?

Texas is full of beautiful landscapes, and spending a day hiking is absolutely indescribable. You can embark on a waterfall road trip, or you might decide to visit our own mini Grand Canyon. Whatever you decide to do in Texas, you are in for a treat amidst the splendor of our landscape!

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