These 9 Beautiful Byways In Texas Are Perfect For A Scenic Drive

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

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

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

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

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!

5. Texas Swiss Alps Scenic Drive

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

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

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

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

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!