The Ultimate Weekend Itinerary If You Love Spending Time Outdoors In Texas
By Katie Lawrence|Published May 02, 2023
×
Katie Lawrence
Author
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 began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
When it comes to outdoor adventures & activities in Texas, we are surely blessed. From beaches and wetlands to mountains and canyons to rolling plants and undulating hills, our state is a nature lover’s dream. This scenic road trip lets you experience several of Texas’ most iconic landscapes in just two days, and it’s the perfect way to get outside this month (and beyond!). I’ve personally visited all of the stops on this incredible journey, and I have to say that stringing them all together is the trip of a lifetime.
From national parks and campgrounds to waterfalls, canyons, and more, there is so much to love about America’s natural splendor — and June, designated as Great Outdoors Month, is the perfect time to get outside.
Featuring under two hours of total drive time, the trip takes you to a cliffside swimming hole, an ancient cave, a fairytale hiking trail, and a restaurant with the most breathtaking patio you've ever seen. After a full day of exploring, you then get to spend the night in a dreamy vacation rental nestled in the trees! Visit Google Maps for a customizable trip itinerary. Enjoy!
Splash the day away at Pace Bend Park
Unlike wildly popular (and therefore insanely crowded) destinations like Hamilton Pool, Pace Bend Park is still something of a hidden gem.
With rugged cliffs overlooking some of the bluest water in Texas and beaches with pearly white sand, this Hill Country oasis will quickly become your new favorite swimming spot.
Advertisement
Pace Bend Park, 2805 Pace Bend Rd N, Spicewood, TX 78669, USA
Located in the River Place Limited District neighborhood of Austin, this trail system features three separate hikes. Today, we'll be embarking on the 5.4-mile, out-and-back River Place Canyon Trail, which is rated as moderate and features an elevation gain of roughly 800 feet.
River Place Nature Trail Canyon Trailhead, 4998 River Pl Blvd, Austin, TX 78730, USA
As you trudge ever deeper into the forest, you'll forget that you're still in a residential area. The landscape here can only be described as magical, complete with tree branch staircases, fairytale footbridges, and some of the most stunning views of the Texas Hill Country you've ever seen.
Just steps from Lake Travis, The Oasis also has incredible food. Whether you go with a burger and fries or a classic Tex-Mex dish such as fajitas or enchiladas, rest assured your meal will be one to remember.
Head underground at Inner Space Cavern
Next, we're heading underground to discover the wonders of Inner Space Cavern in Georgetown.
Inner Space Cavern, 4200 S I-35 Frontage Rd, Georgetown, TX 78626, USA
Unbeknownst to the public for over 10,000 years, this crown jewel is one of the most well-preserved caves in the state. Several different types of cave tours are available, so there is something for every skill level, and you'll get to see everything from prehistoric animal bones to expansive amphitheaters that will make your jaw drop. There is also an (aboveground) zipline!
Advertisement
Spend the night surrounded by trees at The Bloomhouse
Perhaps the quirkiest vacation home rental in Texas, The Bloomhouse is not just a place to spend the night - it's a work of art. Built in the 1970s by two UT architecture students and restored by Dave Claunch in 2017, this unique escape is nestled high up in the trees of West Lake Hills.
Bloomhouse, 4302 Airport Blvd, Austin, TX 78722, USA
The 1,100-square-foot home sleeps up to four guests and features a well-appointed kitchen, a living area, and a spacious outdoor deck surrounded by lush greenery. Adding to the whimsy, there isn't a single straight line inside the structure!
Please note that there is a fee to hike in the River Place Limited District on certain days and times. Visit their website for details.
