The Best Scenic Drives in the Texas Hill Country
- sreinke9
- Apr 11
- 2 min read
Nestled in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Marble Falls is a gem that overflows with stunning natural beauty. Embarking on scenic drives is one of the best ways to saturate yourself in the delights and wonders of the Texas Hill Country. Staying at Hidden Falls Inn in Marble Falls, Texas, offers a comfortable and scenic retreat right in the heart of the Texas Hill Country.
Perched along the banks of Lake Marble Falls, many of our hotel accommodations feature private patios with peaceful water views. Our guests enjoy upscale amenities such as a complimentary breakfast, a relaxing riverside pool, and easy access to some of the most scenic places in Texas!
Top 4 Scenic Drives in the Texas Hill Country
FM 1431 is one of the most scenic drives in the Texas Hill Country, stretching 47 miles and offering access to several outdoor gems along the way. Notable stops include Hidden Falls Adventure Park in Marble Falls, a 2,000-acre playground for off-road enthusiasts with trails for 4x4s, ATVs, and dirt bikes. Nearby, Turkey Bend Recreation Area offers a tranquil escape on the shores of Lake Travis. Also along the route, Muleshoe Bend Recreation Area is known for its vibrant bluebonnet blooms and over nine miles of trails for biking, hiking, and horseback riding.
For a drive that captures the essence of the Texas Hill Country, the 23-mile stretch of Highway 281 from Marble Falls to Johnson City is one of the best scenic drives in the area. The route passes by tranquil spots like Lake Marble Falls, Mustang Lake, and the Pedernales River Picnic Area. Along the way, stop at Reptilandia Reptile Lagoon, a zoo featuring the largest collection of reptiles and amphibians in the Texas Hill Country. The journey ends in Johnson City, where you can explore the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park, home to the former president’s boyhood home and ranch, offering a deep dive into his legacy.
For truly unique Texas Hill Country drives rich in history and natural beauty, Park Road 4 in Burnet County is a must. This scenic 15.5-mile route offers access to two standout state parks: Longhorn Cavern and Inks Lake. Longhorn Cavern State Park offers a unique underground cave system shaped by ancient waters. Nearby, Inks Lake State Park features attractions like Devil’s Waterhole and scenic trails. Also along the route is Perissos Vineyard and Winery, a family-run estate with 100% Texas-grown wines and beautiful vineyard views.
For those seeking off-the-beaten-path drives, Cow Creek Road offers a scenic 8-mile drive in the Texas Hill Country. Best traveled south to north, it stretches from Highway 1431 near Lago Vista to FM 1174 near Oatmeal. This winding road parallels Cow Creek and offers lovely views. Along the route, you’ll find the entrance to Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge, a haven for wildlife and rare birds like the golden-cheeked warbler that can only be found in the juniper-oaks woodlands of the Texas Hill Country.
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