This Natural Wonders Road Trip Will Show You Texas Like You've Never Seen It Before
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Katie Lawrence
Author
It’s time for another road trip, y’all! This one is definitely long overdue since Texas is so full of beauty. But no worries, we’re gonna see it all, from the rushing waters of Gorman Falls to the towering mountains of Big Bend. The entire “best natural wonders in Texas” trip takes around 20 hours, so you’ll probably want to take a long weekend and spend the night in a few places – an easy and relatively cheap thing to do on this trip considering campgrounds are available at nearly every stop.
As usual, dear adventurers, a Google Map with detailed directions has been made for you. All you have to do is sit back, drive, and enjoy the beautiful scenery that our state has to offer. Happy road-tripping!
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Caverns of Sonora, 1711 Private Rd 4468, Sonora, TX 76950, USA
Repeatedly dubbed one of the most beautiful caverns in the entire world, you won't soon forget your experience at the Caverns of Sonora. You can choose from several tour options of varying difficulty and admire the ancient, breathtaking rock formations surrounding you at every turn.
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Lost Maples State Natural Area, 37221 RM 187, Vanderpool, TX 78885, USA
When the fall season rolls around, you just can't miss adding Lost Maples State Natural Area to this road trip. The vibrancy of the leaves from September to December is so breathtaking, it almost looks photoshopped! Plus, the hikes aren't too strenuous, so almost everyone can enjoy this beautiful natural area.
Jacobs Well, Texas 78676, USA
Although not so hidden anymore, Jacob's Well is definitely still a gem. The idea that a 200+ foot deep hole in the earth exists right here in Texas is a thrilling (and terrifying) thought. But even if you aren't a daredevil, the sheer beauty of this natural wonder is too great to pass up. No need to jump off the rocks into the black abyss below to experience all the well has to offer - all you need to do is simply admire it. Whether you do that up close or as far away as you can possibly get while still maintaining a view is totally up to you.
Hamilton Pool Road, Hamilton Pool Rd, Texas, USA
It has been said a lot, but a lot of Texans truly believe that Hamilton Pool is the most beautiful place in The Lone Star State. The limestone overhang, the picturesque waterfall slowly trickling onto the rocks below, and the blue-green pool of water come together to make one of Mother Nature's finest creations and among the best Texas natural wonders
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Willow City Loop, Texas, USA
If you haven't yet had the opportunity to drive the Willow City Loop and drink in the gorgeous sight of vibrant wildflowers lining the roadside, you're truly missing out. Even though the best time to visit is during the peak of the wildflower season, there really isn't a time aside from the dead of winter when this drive won't take your breath away.
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, 16710 Ranch Rd 965, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, USA
Also in Fredericksburg is the famous Enchanted Rock, which was named by Native Americans after they observed mysterious fires glowing in the night and heard creaking and groaning with no apparent source. We now have logical explanations for both occurrences, though the creepiness of the legend is still very much intact. From a distance, the rock appears pink, and the road leading up to it is lined with bright blue wildflowers just like the previous destination, making for an absolutely picturesque drive.
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Gorman Falls Trail, Texas 76853, USA
Next, we're headed to a place that'll make you feel like the king (or queen) of the jungle: Gorman Falls. After a short hike, you'll come upon a towering (over 60 foot tall!) waterfall that will enthrall and calm you at the same time. If you've never been in a place where the sound of rushing water overpowers everything else, you'll be thoroughly amazed at how peaceful it is and why its among the best nature spots in Texas.
Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Canyon, TX 79015, USA
The fact that we have our own "Grand Canyon," second in size only to the real thing in Arizona, makes us pretty darn proud to be Texans! If you haven't had the opportunity to see the Palo Duro Canyon in person yet, be fair warned that pictures don't even begin to do its beauty justice. Layers upon layers of red rock here almost tell a story of hardship and triumph as the canyon fought against the elements to build itself up millions of years ago. A visit here is a truly unforgettable experience that will stay with you for years to come.
Big Bend National Park, TX, USA
And last but certainly not least on this list of the best natural wonders in Texas, we have the ever-present giants looming over West Texas: the Chisos Mountains, otherwise known as Big Bend. All we have to say is make sure you schedule your hikes for sunset so you can capture this picturesque scene for yourself.
Who’s ready to hop in the car to check out some of these amazing wonders? Or, if you’ve been to any of them, which ones were your favorites? We’d love to read about your experience in the comments section below!
For a spooky road trip that’s perfect for those that have a penchant for the paranormal, check out this Terrifying Texas Road Trip Itinerary!
While we’re on the subject, this video gives you the scary details behind the Reindeer Manor:
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More to Explore
Best Natural Wonders in Texas
What are some of the best nature spots in Texas?
- Woodlawn Lake – Located in San Antonio, this gorgeous urban park is not only an amazing nature spot, but it is also a fantastic place for a respite from the city's hustle & bustle.
- The Old Baldy Trail – Located at Garner State Park in Concan, it is definitely a heart-pounding, strenuous uphill journey but well worth it at this, the most popular state park in Texas.
- Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge – Located in Lake Jackson, the refuge is one of the most biologically rich areas in Texas, encompassing a 44,000-acre coastal wildlife conservation area.
Read on to learn more about some of the best nature spots in Texas.
What are some of the best fishing spots in Texas?
- Rollover Pass – Located at the Bolivar Peninsula, this man-made strait connecting the Gulf of Mexico with East Bay, draws folks from all over the world for some of the best fishing imaginable.
- Lake Livingston – Located in East Texas, there is a notable white bass and catfish fishery here. The lake is also one of the lakes in the state of Texas.
- Lake Sam Rayburn – Located upstream of the Big Thicket National Preserve, this fisherman's paradise is teeming with largemouth bass, white bass, crappie, and catfish fish.
Read on to learn more about some of the best fishing spots in Texas.
What are some of the other best road trips in Texas?
- Barbecue – it just wouldn't be Texas without a Barbecue Road Trip! The Lone Star State is famous for its savory barbecued meats so this adventure is a must for carnivores everywhere.
- Hill Country – The Texas Hill Country region is among the most beautiful in the state. Embarking upon a Hill Country Road Trip will capture your imagination and titillate your senses.
- Haunted Cemeteries – if you like exploring the paranormal, then this Haunted Cemeteries Road Trip. is for you. On it, you’ll enjoy a little ghostly fun as well as learn a lot about the state’s history.
- Fall Foliage – Extending close to 700 miles, a Fall Foliage Road Trip in Central, West, and East Texas just can’t be beat. When the seasons change in this part of the state the colors are beyond breathtaking.
Read on to learn more about some of the best road trips in Texas.