Throughout the year, but especially in the Spring, I love to hop in the truck and travel along a back road to what I can discover. With all due respect to Robert Frost, I take ‘the road less traveled,’ and that really has made all the difference for me.
Having traveled to every Texas county over my lifetime, I’ve been on some beautiful and scenic drives. While Texas doesn’t have an official scenic byway, Hawaii and the Lone Star State are the only two states that don’t. We have many roads, I believe, that are worthy of that designation, but that’s a conversation for another day.
I’ve created my Top 10 iconic Texas drives. I think you’ll find they offer some of the most beautiful views you’ll find in the state. Here they are in no particular order. I wish I was on one of them now.
1. River Road (FM 170): Terlingua to Presidio
Why It’s Scenic
My first visit to the Big Bend Region of Texas was an incredible experience I won’t soon forget. The majesty of the mountains, the seclusion I felt, and the beauty of the area were like nothing I’d ever experienced before or since.
This legendary drive along FM 170 hugs the Rio Grande through Big Bend Ranch State Park, offering dramatic desert mountains, canyons, and sweeping river views. Sunsets here are spectacular, and the remoteness of the region is felt from the windshield to the rear-view mirror. Don’t be in a rush on this road. It twists and turns just like the river it’s paralleling.
Highlights & Tips
- Panoramic overlooks of the Rio Grande.
- Access to hiking trails and picnic areas in Big Bend Ranch State Park.
- Watch for wildlife and sudden changes in elevation and curves.
- Sit with the locals on the porch at the Starlight Theatre Restaurant and Terlingua Trading Company in Terlingua Ghost Town.
2. The Twisted Sisters (RR 335/336/337): Hill Country Loop
Why It’s Special
While I am not a motorcyclist, my husband drove one for the four years we lived in the Texas Hill Country. A favorite road he and many others enjoy is the Twisted Sisters. This rugged loop features sharp turns, steep hills, remote ranches, and dramatic canyons. Whether you choose to cage it like I do or you take a motorcycle, watch your speed on the curves. They don’t call it the hill country for nothing.
Highlights & Tips
- Over 100 miles of challenging twists, river crossings, and breathtaking vistas.
- Frequent wildlife sightings along the way, so watch for deer and wild turkeys.
- Spring wildflowers and fall foliage make for especially scenic trips.
- Limited services along the route, so fuel up in Leakey or Camp Wood.
- After you finish, head to Bandera and enjoy some time at the Cowboy Capital of the World.
3. Highway 90: Del Rio to Van Horn
Why It’s Special
I’ve traveled Highway 90 as a solo traveler, with my husband during a snowstorm, and on a bus with a group of travel professionals. Each time, I see something I missed before. Wide-open West Texas skies, ancient rock formations, and the allure of small towns make this route a must for lovers of solitude and big landscapes.
Highlights & Tips
- Visit Marathon, Alpine, Marfa and Van Horn for small-town charm.
- Take a selfie at the famous Prada Marfa art installation near Valentine.
- Experience the solitude and dark skies of far West Texas.
- Stop for a view of the river from the Pecos River High Bridge Overlook.
- Check out the Judge Roy Bean Visitor Center in Comstock.
4. Willow City Loop: Willow City near Fredericksburg
Why It’s Special
In springtime, Willow City Loop shows the world what the Hill Country is like when it’s in bloom. Texas Wildflowers blanket the area and this scenic loop, including cattle guards and boot-lined fences, showcases the beauty of the area.
Highlights & Tips
- Best visited in the spring for wildflowers.
- Road is narrow and winding; drive slowly and respect private property.
- Combine with a visit to Fredericksburg and Johnson City for food, wine, and shopping.
5. Bluewater Highway (FM 3005) and (Highway 257): Galveston to Surfside Beach
Why It’s Special
When I started How Big Is Texas, Morgan, Debra, and I drove the perimeter of Texas. The road from Galveston to Surfside was part of our journey. This breezy coastal drive follows the Gulf. You can enjoy sandy beaches, sparkling water, and plenty of spots for seafood and photo ops along the way.
Highlights & Tips
- Can be busy on peak summer weekends so plan for extra time.
- Perfect for birding, beach combing, or fresh seafood from a local restaurant.
- Don’t forget a hat and sunscreen.
- Visit the Strand Historic District in Galveston while you’re in the area.
6. Davis Mountains Scenic Loop (Hwy 118 and Hwy 166): Fort Davis Area
Why It’s Special
I spent the best time during a July 4th event a few years ago in Fort Davis, and I’ve returned several times since to this community of around 1,000 people. You can enjoy the Davis Mountains and maybe even see elk or bighorn sheep along the way. And when you’re done driving for the day, and nightfall arrives, look up into the sky. Fort Davis is officially designated by DarkSky International as a premier location for stargazing.
Highlights & Tips
- Start or end your loop at the historic Fort Davis National Historic Site.
- Visit the McDonald Observatory for tours or star parties.
- Watch for wildlife and be prepared for limited services.
7. Palo Duro Canyon Route (Hwy 217 and TX 207): Palo Duro Canyon and Claude to Silverton
Why It’s Special
When I was 12 years old, I saw Palo Duro Canyon for the first time. I saw Texas the Musical, which takes place at the bottom of the canyon in the summer months. It is truly a beautiful place. After you’ve explored Palo Duro Canyon State Park, head east to Claude. The drive from Claude to Silverton on TX-207 crosses a significant expanse of Palo Duro Canyon. You’ll find overlooks, canyon views, and red rock formations. It’s one of the most beautiful drives in the Texas Panhandle
Highlights & Tips
- Sunrises and sunsets light up the canyon walls so bring your camera.
- Summer heat can be intense, so bring water and sun protection.
- Watch for wildlife and enjoy the tranquility of this vast landscape.
- If you have the time, head north to Amarillo and check out Historic Route 66.
8. Big Thicket Forest Drive: Southeast Texas
Why It’s Special
Having spent a good amount of time in southeast Texas, I’ve driven through the “Big Thicket” for decades. While most people know the “hill country” to be identified as being in the central part of the state, the Piney Woods of southeast Texas also has winding roads and hills. They are hidden by the giant pine trees the area is known for. When you drive through this area, in many areas the pines and other trees meet at the top, providing shaded areas as you drive the backroads. Dense forests, bayous, and wildflowers make this a nature-lover’s paradise.
Highlights & Tips
- Dense forests, wetlands, and wildflower meadows provide stunning scenery.
- Excellent opportunities for outdoor adventures in Big Thicket National Preserve.
- Visit in spring or fall for the best weather and most vibrant landscapes.
- Bring bug spray and binoculars.
- Roads are narrow and winding in places, so drive carefully, especially after rain.
9. Caddo Lake Area: East Texas Scenic Route
Why It’s Special
Take a drive around Caddo Lake, famous for its moss-draped cypress trees, bayous, alligators, and otherworldly scenery. Located partially in Texas, the lake is shared with our neighbor to the east, Louisiana. Caddo Lake State Park is a great option to view different areas of the lake. You might even spot Bigfoot while you’re there. After all, the town to the north of Caddo is Jefferson, the Official Bigfoot Capital of Texas.
Highlights & Tips
- Explore Jefferson for antiques and local eats.
- Consider a kayak or guided boat tour to experience the lake’s hidden waterways up close.
- Early mornings are perfect for misty, and sometimes creepy, photos.
- Spring and fall offer mild weather and abundant wildlife.
- Don’t forget mosquito repellent. This is classic East Texas swamp country!
10. Military Highway (U.S. 83): Laredo to Brownsville
Why It’s special?
A decade ago, my husband and I took a year off to RV and for nearly three months, we camped in the Rio Grande Valley along with “Winter Texans” who came down from the northern states and Canada. We traveled the Military Highway often when we were day tripping. You’ll find unique landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture of the Rio Grande Valley, passing through citrus groves, wildlife refuges, and small border towns. And if you’re looking for Raspas, also known as Mexican snow cones, you’re likely to find one in every town. I highly recommend a Mangonada, mango syrup blended with chamoy, lime, Tajín, and mango chunks. So good!!!
Highlights & Tips
- Stop at multiple World Birding Center sites for birdwatching.
- Sample authentic Tex-Mex cuisine in small towns along the way.
- Take detours to Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park for more nature and wildlife.
- Stop at any number of farmers’ markets. You’ll find the freshest and most delicious produce.
Tips for Your Texas Scenic Drive Adventure
- Always check road conditions and weather, especially in remote or mountainous areas.
- Spring and fall are often the most beautiful (and comfortable) seasons for scenic drives.
- Respect private property and don’t trespass for photos.
- Pack snacks, water, and a camera for the journey!
Ready to Hit the Road?
Texas is full of unforgettable landscapes, hidden gems, and stories just waiting to be discovered. Sometimes the best adventures are found between destinations. Whether you’re seeking wildflower-covered hills, dramatic canyons, coastal breezes, or cypress-lined bayous, there’s a scenic drive for travelers across the Lone Star State.
Have you traveled any of these routes, or do you have a favorite Texas drive I missed? Share your experiences and recommendations!
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Until next time from Texas…safe travels!