Considering the fact that our state is nearly 900 miles across, we have plenty of open roads to explore. There’s no feeling quite like that of hopping in your car and setting off down a Texas country road. Many highways in our state tend to run through uncharted territory with towering mountains, lush greenery, and flowing rivers. These eight drives are especially breathtaking and definitely belong on your Texas bucket list. They’re our picks for the best scenic drives in Texas!

1. TX 207 (Canyon)
Canyon, TX 79015, USA
sarowen/Flickr
This breathtaking drive takes you through the red rocks of the second-largest canyon in the country, Palo Duro. It's breathtakingly beautiful, so be prepared to stop a few times to get good photos! This is one of the best scenic drives in Texas.
This segment of Highway 207 is also called FM 284, which can be found by following the signs toward Palo Duro Canyon State Park.
sarowen/Flickr
Prepare also to see wildlife like bison and deer as well as wild turkeys. Palo Duro Canyon is teeming with life and is easily one of the most beautiful backroads in Texas.
2. TX 118 (Fort Davis)
Fort Davis, TX 79734, USA
Bill Herndon/Flickr
Also known as the Davis Mountains Scenic Loop, this drive lets you marvel at the over 8000-foot tall monoliths and lush greenery lining the roadside. Head west on the highway until you see Spur 78, and then follow the loop for as long as you'd like. It's 155.3 miles long, so there's plenty of room to roam. This is one of the best driving roads in Texas.

Take a look at this video by @takemytrip:
3. Devil's Backbone (San Marcos)
San Marcos, TX, USA
Adventures of KM&G-Morris/Flickr
This short Hill Country drive near San Marcos and Wimberley is absolutely stunning, complete with rolling hills and evergreen trees galore. The trail starts on R.M. 32 in Wimberley.

Take a look at this video by @cyclingtexas1670:
4. FM 170 (Big Bend)
Robert Hensley/Flickr
If you're searching for "back roads near me," head to Big Bend National Park which offers a few scenic drives. Known as "River Road," FM 170 is a gorgeous drive that parallels the Rio Grande.

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The stretch pictured here, starting in Lajitas and ending in Presidio, is full of twists and turns, majestic mountains, and the guiding waters of the stream if you should ever lose your way.
Big Bend National Park, TX, USA
Alex Steffler/Flickr
This road is a windy one, so make sure to drive with extra caution.
5. Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive (Big Bend)
Big Bend National Park, TX, USA
Dave Hensley/Flickr
Also in Big Bend, this 30-mile drive leads to the famous Santa Elena Canyon. Along the way, you'll pass a ranch, several scenic overlooks, and a historic district.
6. Willow City Loop (Fredericksburg)
Fredericksburg, TX 78624, USA
Dave Hensley/Flickr
Willow City Loop is especially gorgeous during the spring when vibrant wildflowers line the roadway as far as the eye can see. To reach it from Fredericksburg, take State Route 16 north until coming upon Willow City, and then head east on Ranch Road 1323 before turning left on Willow City Loop. This one is worth slowing down and really relishing.

Take a look at this video by @2oclockcoffee:
7. Highway 90/385 (Marathon)
Marathon, TX 79842, USA
Louis Vest/Flickr
Marathon is known as the "gateway to Big Bend" because it's where the looming Chisos Mountains start to come into view in the distance. To see this spectacular view, follow Highway 90 until it merges with 385 and enjoy the view. There's nothing quite like it! It's one of the most stunning backroads in Texas.
8. Lonesome Highway (Guadalupe Mountains)
Guadalupe Peak, Texas 79847, USA
Jasperdo/Flickr
The road leading to the Guadalupe Mountains is known as the "Lonesome Highway," most likely because, like on many remote Texas roads, you'll rarely cross paths with other vehicles or see any signs of civilization. If you want to see this hauntingly beautiful scene firsthand, travel west on Highway 285 until it meets Highway 180, then turn left and continue into the mountains. It'll be just you and the road after a little while. It won't take long for you to realize why this is one of our picks for best backroads in Texas.

 

Have you done any of the best scenic drives in Texas? For more of our picks for the very best backroads of Texas, check out these scenic byways!

Before you hit the road on any road trip, check out our ultimate road trip packing list as well as on-the-go snack ideas!

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More to Explore

The Best Backroads In Texas

Tori Jane | February 12, 2021

What are some scenic drives in Texas?

There are plenty of scenic drives throughout the state of Texas. Two of the best are the following:

  • Willow City Loop, which is famous for its incredible wildflowers in the spring.
  • The El Camino Real Highway, otherwise known as Texas 21.

 

What are the best road trips in Texas?

Some of the best Texas road trips are the following:

  • Fall Foliage Road Trip
  • Abandoned Places Road Trip
  • Natural Wonders Road Trip
  • Barbecue Road Trip
  • Haunted Road Trip

 

What are some other exciting things to do in Texas?

Texas is a huge state full of culture, history, and beautiful landscapes! No matter where you go, you're going to find tons of engaging activities, including museums, historic tours, libraries, state parks, and all the good eating your heart could ever desire. Everything really is bigger in Texas!

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