Exploring the vast West Texas desert in its entirety could take a lifetime, so luckily, there are several Texas scenic routes that traverse the desolate terrain. One such route is the El Camino del Rio scenic drive, a 50-mile stretch of roadway that showcases the mystique of our state’s most forgotten lands as you’ve never seen before. Let’s explore one of the best scenic drives in Texas.

Meandering alongside the Rio Grande, El Camino del Rio spans just under 50 miles of remote desert terrain. Much of the road is located within Big Bend Ranch State Park.
Grover R/TripAdvisor
Also known as "River Road," the drive connects Lajitas and Presidio via State Highway 170.
This desolate roadway is among the most scenic routes in Texas, boasting panoramic vistas far as the eye can see. You'll climb mountains, cross arroyos, and descend into valleys, all the while surrounded by lofty canyon walls.
TripAdvisor/Previa1994
River Road is narrow and has few shoulders, so drive slowly and with extreme caution. Many fatal accidents have occurred over the years.
Perhaps the most defining feature of El Camino del Rio is "Big Hill." One of the steepest stretches of highway in Texas, it'll have you feeling on top of the world - and this is part of what makes this road one of the best drives in Texas.
TripAdvisor/Bruce W.
To the east, the majestic Chisos Mountains extend for 75 miles. Looking westward, you'll enjoy views of Colorado Canyon and mountain ranges that roll on deep into Mexico.
Incredible diversity in both plant and wildlife, as well as geological formations, means varying scenery all along the road. From over 300 bird species to four different plant habitats to ancient volcanic ash, there's a little bit of everything.
TripAdvisor/AuntieM64
Your eyes won't quite know where to look!

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It isn't uncommon to see cows, horses, burros, or mules next to (or even on) the pavement. Open grazing is allowed here, after all.
TripAdvisor/Roger R.
As you drive, keep an eye out for any animals that may have stumbled on to the road!
As the seasons change, so too does the flora along River Road. Blooms of all different colors line the highway year-round, ensuring no two trips are alike.
TripAdvisor/KDG_TX
This particular photo was taken during the fall. We're definitely getting autumn vibes from these bright yellow flowers!
Scenic pullovers, like the Teepee Rio Grande Overlook, offer travelers a place to stop and take in the scenery. It's hard to safely appreciate the otherworldly surroundings in their entirety from behind the wheel, so this is your chance to stop and smell the roses.
TripAdvisor/AuntieM64
You can also visit the Barton Warnock Center in Lajitas for information and interpretive literature!
Your adventure comes to an end in Presidio, a former Spanish mission town. From here, continue onto the Davis Mountains Scenic Loop or head towards the eclectic town of Marfa rumored to harbor ghostly lights.
TripAdvisor/Bruce W.
This is truly one of the best driving roads in Texas, and your options are endless!

Check out the gorgeous scenery along the El Camino del Rio:

Have you taken any scenic drives in Texas like this one? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience on the El Camino del Rio scenic drive in the comments. If you’re ready for another road trip, check out this bucket-list-worthy Texas scenic route.

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William Suphan | August 24, 2023

What are the most beautiful natural wonders in Texas?

The most beautiful natural wonders in Texas include:

  • Old Baldy Trail at Garner State Park. The limestone karsts here are reminiscent of the movie Avatar or the gorgeous Halong Bay in Vietnam.
  • Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge. This amazing expanse covers 44,000 acres and has a wide variety of wildlife.
  • Tule Park. Located near Rockport, this lush, green place shows how surprisingly green and gorgeous Texas can be.
  • Enchanted Rock. This mesmerizing rock has cave drawings from Native Americans from hundreds of years ago.

Learn more about the most beautiful natural wonders in Texas. 

What are the most charming small towns in Texas?

The most charming small towns in Texas include:

  • Marfa. This tiny town has a huge arts culture and is the sight of strange lights known as the Marfa Lights.
  • Poteet. This was where George Strait was born and is known for its annual Poteet Strawberry Festival.
  • Schulenburg. This town is full of German heritage and culture and has the Texas Polka Music Museum and several painted churches.
  • Jefferson. This town is full of antique and specialty shops as well as over 70 historic landmarks.

Learn more about the most charming small towns in Texas. 

What are the most charming general stores in Texas?

The most charming general stores in Texas include:

  • Jefferson General Store in Jefferson. This old store has been around since 1870 selling antiques, collectibles, and foodstuffs.
  • Luckenbach General Store in Lukenbach. This shop opened in 1849 and was originally a trading post. It now sells all sorts of Western items and even has a bar.
  • Fischer General Store in Fischer. The same family has been running this shop since it started and they are also the town’s namesake.
  • Nix General Store in Nix. This store started up in 1883 and was also a post office until 1906, yet the store is still in business.

Find out more about the most charming general stores in Texas. 

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Featured Addresses
Big Bend Ranch State Park, 21800 FM170, Terlingua, TX 79852, USA