The 75-Mile Road Trip Around Davis Mountains Scenic Loop Is A Glorious Spring Adventure In Texas
By Katie Lawrence|Published May 19, 2020
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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).
Scenic drives abound all over Texas, including as far west as Fort Davis. The Davis Mountains Scenic Loop is the highest public highway in Texas, featuring panoramic mountain vistas, vibrant flowers, and even grazing wildlife!
Spanning 75 miles, the Davis Mountain Scenic Loop is a little-known drive through some of the most remote, isolated landscape in Texas. Reaching a maximum elevation of 6700 feet, it's the highest public highway in Texas by far.
With Fort Davis as a starting point, the drive begins on Texas 118 and proceeds to ascend Limpia Canyon. From there, it passes mountains Locke and Fowlkes, as well as the McDonald Observatory.
Upon entering Madera Canyon, passengers can enjoy lunch in a quiet, shaded picnic area. While you eat, marvel at the seemingly endless fields of vibrant wildflowers gently rustling in the wind.
Once you get back on the road, take a quick left turn onto Texas 166. You'll then pass the majestic Livermore and Sawtooth Mountains, their rugged peaks stretching up into oblivion.
One of our favorite things about West Texas lonesome highways has to be the mysterious silhouettes of mountain peaks rising up in the distance. Just breathtaking!
Have you ever driven the Davis Mountains Scenic Loop? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience! Let us know, and check out our previous article for more scenic drives to embark on: These 9 Beautiful Byways In Texas Are Perfect For A Scenic Drive.
Are there any restaurants, businesses, or other attractions in Texas you think the world should know about? Head over to our nomination page and give them a shoutout — you just might see your submission featured in an upcoming article!
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