Here in Texas, spring is magical. Bluebonnets bloom and gentle breezes blow, making it the perfect time of year to take a scenic drive or hike.

This spring, you should make it a point to spend as much time as possible outdoors and enjoy the weather before we're once again overtaken by the infamous Texas summer heat. The following are 11 of our favorite springtime destinations in the state. See how many you've been to before and which ones you need to add to your bucket list:

1. Gorman Falls (Bend)

When you think about breathtaking waterfalls, Texas certainly isn't the first place that comes to mind. It may surprise you that this gorgeous, 80-foot tall waterfall is located right here in the Lone Star State, and it's the perfect time of year to visit. Plus, the hike to access it is super short and sweet!

More information here.

2236 Park Hill Dr, Bend, TX 76824

2. Palo Duro Canyon (Canyon)

We all know about the Grand Canyon, but did you know that the second largest canyon in the country is located right here in Texas? Palo Duro Canyon resembles the majestic badlands of Arizona with its towering red rocks and jaw-dropping panoramic views.

More information here.

11450 State Hwy Park Rd 5, Canyon, TX 79015

3. Hill Country Road Trip

Spring is the perfect time for a road trip in Texas. The temperature is just right, the air is fresh, and bluebonnets line the roads as far as the eye can see.

More information here.

4. Big Bend

A lot of people are shocked when they realize Texas isn't all dust and tumbleweeds. Our state is full of a surprising number of gorgeous mountains, the most notable being in Big Bend National Park. Some of the best views in the state, like the famous "Window" shown above, can be found here.

More information here.

5. Caprock Canyons (Quitaque)

Palo Duro isn't the only noteworthy canyon in Texas. Caprock Canyons are another breathtaking set of peaks and valleys definitely doesn't look like it belongs in our state. Although it may not compare in size to the famous park in Amarillo, it definitely makes up for that in beauty.

More information here. 850 Caprock Canyon Park Road, Quitaque, TX 79255

6. Krause Springs (Spicewood)

Our minds tend to immediately jump to Hamilton Pool and Jacob's Well when we think about natural springs in Texas - and this isn't to say that those places aren't beautiful, but such narrow-minded thinking makes us miss out on other gorgeous swimming holes like Krause Springs. You'll feel like you've escaped to a tropical rainforest with all the lush greenery and cascading falls.

More information here.

404 Krause Spring Rd, Spicewood, TX 78669

7. Santa Elena Canyon (Big Bend)

Big Bend not only has towering mountains, but also mesmerizing canyons. The most famous is Santa Elena Canyon, known for its turquoise waters and private beach area that families love to enjoy. More information here.

8. Take a train ride

There are so many fun train rides to take in Texas, and what better time to do so than spring, when everything is starting to bloom and come alive? Some of the railroads include Texas State Railroad, Grapevine Vintage Railroad, and the Jefferson Railway. More information here.

9. Visit a Farmers Market

Spring is the perfect time to stock up on all your favorite colorful, nutrient-dense fruits and veggies as well as fresh meats, cheeses, homemade breads and jams, and more delicious goodies. There are tons of farmers markets to choose from all throughout the state! More information here.

10. Drive the Willow City Loop

Spring means one thing and one thing only to us Texans: bluebonnets! They're starting to pop up all over, but Willow City Loop near Fredericksburg is arguably the best place in the state to see the highest concentration of them. If you need a new family picture, I can't think of a better backdrop! More information here.

11. Eat a meal outside

We have to take advantage of the cool, breezy weather before Mother Nature decides to crank up the heat and turn Texas into a sauna. One of the best ways to do that is to dine outdoors! There are plenty of restaurants in Texas that have patios overlooking bodies of water and providing an unforgettable springtime meal experience. More information here.

How many of these places have you explored? Let us know!

And for more outdoor adventures in Texas, check out our previous article: If There Are Only 7 Hikes You Ever Do In Texas, Make Them These.