Best Driving Roads near Texas
Driving across Texas conjures up images of endless, monotonous highways that extend over vast swaths of desert. Sadly, this way of thinking leads many people to lose out on the stunning grandeur that Texas highways provide. The vastness of the land lends itself to a plethora of breathtakingly beautiful drives. Some of the gems in the rough have been gathered here, including freeways, historic routes, and mountain drives. From gorgeous country roads to scenic byways in Texas awaits you. Be prepared to enjoy vineyards and rose farms, serene lakes, and meandering rural lanes. The highways of Texas provide something for every kind of traveler. Get into the driver’s seat and read on to discover 5 of the best driving roads in Texas:
Canyon Sweep (Texas Panhandle)
Distance: 119 miles | Driving time: 3 hours
Canyon Sweep takes you through some of the most beautiful, historic, and lovely regions in the United States. Texas has the second-largest canyon in America, something you may not have known. Palo Duro Canyon is located in the Texas Panhandle, and Caprock Canyons State Park is only a short drive away. The Canyon Sweep is the name given to the stretch of road that connects the two points, and there are many possible paths you might follow. You may take this route from Quitaque and proceed northwest to Canyon via the city of Claude. Then take 86 West.
There are a number of lakes along Hwy 86 that are popular with wildlife watchers so make sure to keep your camera at the ready! Once in Silverton, Texas, the road turns right onto TX-207, a Panhandle highway and a particularly beautiful stretch of road in Texas. There is a gorgeous Tule Canyon 10 miles down the road that was formed by Tule Creek. If you're short on time, you may alternatively use Highway 27 for the majority of the journey. The journey winds its way through a few ranches before ending up at the Palo Duro Canyon. You can see the plains all the way to the horizon no matter which route you choose between those stunning red granite canyons. This is the perfect road trip if you’re looking to get a glimpse into the rustic side of Texas.
Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive
Distance: 30 miles | Driving time: 45 minutes
The 30-mile scenic route towards the Castolon Historic District and Santa Elena Canyon along the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive is a seriously spectacular one. This route exhibits some of the region's most notable historical and geological landmarks. There are a number of tiny hiking trails along this route, as well as a number of wildlife spotting opportunities. The Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive winds its way through the Chisos Mountains on the western edge of the park. Sotol Vista, at the top of the ascent, offers a stunning panorama. You may stop at many other viewpoints along the way, including Mule Ears Viewpoint, which offers stunning views of the Mule Ears Peaks.
The route then descends to the Castolon Historic District, where it mirrors the Rio Grande, before returning to the Santa Elena Canyon trailhead. Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive isn't only about the scenery; it also has a lot to offer. An old farmhouse at Sam Nail Ranch provides a glimpse into the area's past. The Big Bend National Park is the starting point for this trip.
Davis Mountains Scenic Loop (Southwest Texas)
Distance: 75 miles | Driving time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Texas' Davis Mountain Scenic Loop spans a whopping 75 miles across some of the state's most remote and secluded landscapes. The highest town in Texas, Fort Davis is the starting point for this trip. Therefore, it is no surprise that this is also by far the highest public route in Texas, rising to a height of 6700 feet at its highest point. Fort Davis is home to a National Historic Site, which is regarded as one of the outstanding examples of a frontier military post still standing in the Southwest. This route is an excellent way to see the southwest Texas mountains. Volcanic activity created these mountains millions of years ago. It seems like the Davis Mountains are hovering above the Chihuahuan Desert from a distance.
These hillsides are studded with pine trees and are a magnificent sight to see as you travel. Driving along this path is awe-inspiring in all its geological glory. TX-118 and TX-166 take you across the desert, with mountains rising in the distance, as you make your way. If you're in the mood for a break, the McDonald Observatory is just a short distance away.
Texas Swiss Alps Scenic Drive
Distance: 120 miles | Driving time: 3 hours
On this gorgeous journey through the Hill Country, you won't quite be transported to Switzerland's Alps, but you will be treated to some spectacular vistas that characterize the region's distinctive scenery. There are breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps of Texas at Leakey, which may be accessed by crossing the Medina and Sabinal Rivers. The Frio and Nueces rivers carve deep canyons across the hills, which have a height range of 1,400-2,400 feet above sea level. There are ranches along the route where you can go tubing, fishing, or hiking. Starting in Bandera (the Cowboy Capital of Texas), proceed west on Highway 470 towards Concan to see the Texas Swiss Alps Scenic Drive. Go north on Highway 83 to Leakey when the road splits. Once you've reached Leakey, go back towards Medina on 337.
It is possible to take the loop in the other direction, or to shorten it by cutting across to/at Vanderpool. Although you'll be able to stop at the Lost Maples Winery along the route, the journey is all about huge vistas. Depending on the route you choose and the number of stops you make, this circle might be anywhere from 80 to 130 miles long.
Willow City Loop (Fredericksburg)
Distance: 13 miles | Driving time: 20 minutes
Located just outside of Fredericksburg, the Willow City Loop is a sublime 13-mile stretch. Even though it is just a short distance, the rural route offers spectacular vistas since it is situated in a stunning region of Texas' central Hill Country. You can expect to witness a variety of landscapes, including rolling hills, open fields, and trees unique to the area. The Willow City Loop has rolling hills and deep valleys covered in a rainbow of colors, making it a visual treat for the eyes. The route offers spectacular vistas of rivers, meadows, and cliffs covered with yucca.
Harry's on the Loop is a great place to get a bite to eat and a nice drink. Take State Route 16 north from Fredericksburg for about 13 miles to Willow City, then turn east on Ranch Road 1323 for about 3 miles, and then turn left onto Willow City Loop. The best time to drive along this road is during the bluebonnet season. In the spring, from around March to May, this is the finest time to do the journey because of the wildflowers. The state flower (bluebonnets) and other colorful blooms like Indian paintbrushes and Mexican poppies fill the landscape with vibrant color in the spring. As you drive about, keep an eye out for private property since the road is narrow.