Texas, the second-largest state in the United States, is not only famous for its vibrant cities but also boasts countless magnificent and diverse natural landscapes. From vast deserts to towering mountains, from winding rivers to quaint historic towns, Texas offers visitors unforgettable driving experiences. Let’s explore the most beautiful cross-state driving routes in Texas, where you can fully admire the boundless beauty of this land.
Imagine yourself behind the wheel, your car gliding smoothly on an endless road, with stunning natural scenery on both sides. The bright golden sunlight shines on dry grass hills, majestic rocky mountains, and cool green rivers. A feeling of freedom and excitement surges as you discover new things on the most beautiful cross-state driving routes in Texas.
Spectacular Big Bend Desert Route
The journey begins from Austin, with the first destination being Ft. Stockton, about a seven-hour drive away. Interstate I-10 allows speeds up to 140 km/h. The traffic is light, and the beautiful scenery with vast grasslands on both sides of the road brings a feeling of relaxation and refreshment. An overnight stay in Ft. Stockton, a small town with many military forts and ranches typical of the American Wild West, helps you recharge for the next day of exploration.
The next morning, the group sets off early to reach Big Bend National Park by 10 a.m. The road to the national park is straight, flanked by dry grasslands and bushes. If it weren’t for the distant mountains blocking the view, you would feel like the horizon is right in front of you.
Straight road leading to Big Bend National Park with vast, wild scenery
Temperatures in Big Bend range from 40–45 degrees Celsius (104-113 Fahrenheit), with hot and dry air, but the area is still full of life. Wildlife here has to constantly work to survive, with rabbits being the most numerous. On the way into the national park, cars often have to brake suddenly to avoid these cute animals. Driving at night here is quite dangerous because animals can suddenly appear on the road.
Big Bend is most beautiful in the early morning when the sun begins to rise, at noon when the sun is at its highest, and in the late afternoon when the sun is about to set. The images of the Wild West appear vividly, more realistic and authentic than any movie you’ve ever seen. The road is sometimes straight, sometimes winding, and the surrounding scenery is only rocky mountains, dry grasslands, cacti, and bushes, creating a wild and impressive beauty.
Unique rock formations sculpted by wind and erosion over time in Big Bend
Exploring the Majestic Santa Elena Canyon
Following the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, you’ll reach Santa Elena Canyon. The trail here leads hikers up the mountain, to the sandy beach by the Rio Grande River, and deep into the canyon. In some sections, the wind blowing out from the canyon is freezing cold. One of Big Bend’s claims to fame is the Rio Grande River winding between the majestic rock walls of Santa Elena Canyon.
The Rio Grande River meanders through Santa Elena Canyon, creating a majestic and poetic landscape
On the other side of the river is Mexico. Visitors can easily cross the border by walking through the narrow riverbed, with water up to their waists. This is a unique and exciting experience, allowing you to explore two different countries in just one day.
The Rio Grande River serves as a natural border between the United States and Mexico, creating a unique cultural intersection
In the afternoon, the car enters the Chisos Basin valley nestled among towering mountain ranges. The trails leading up to these mountains are filled with colorful wildflowers and cactus flowers. As the sun sets, on the way down the mountain, you might encounter herds of wild deer foraging for food.
Don’t miss the opportunity to watch the sunset at the canyon called “The Window” until the last ray of sunlight disappears. The desert sunset creates magical colors for the sky and land. As night falls, the valley is immersed in deep black, and the crescent moon hanging over the mountain peak is not enough to illuminate the path, bringing a sense of solitude to the vast mountains and forests.
Sunset scenery in Big Bend desert, with vibrant colors stretching across the sky
Journey to the McDonald Observatory
A few hours’ drive from Big Bend is the Davis Mountains region. More than 70 years ago, on the summit of Locke Peak in a mountain range, the McDonald Observatory was built (named after Mr. McDonald, a wealthy Texas banker who dedicated his fortune to the study of stars). This place is far from urban areas, so the night sky is not polluted by electric lights, creating ideal conditions for stargazing.
Currently, the McDonald Observatory belongs to the University of Texas. During the day, there are guided tours for visitors to go up to the observatory and see telescopes. At night, visitors can observe the solar system and the Milky Way. For the first time, you can see the moon clearly, and see giant Pluto with its four tiny satellites.
The evening program is very rich, from 6 pm to past 9 pm, and participating in all three programs costs only about $25 per person. The night sky sparkles with countless stars, making it ideal for learning about the vast universe and stargazing.
View from McDonald Observatory, where you can admire the beauty of the vast universe
Exploring Carlsbad Caverns
Near the Texas border is Carlsbad Caverns National Park in southeastern New Mexico. The 10+ km road from the interstate into the national forest winds along the mountainside with many wonderful views.
While stalactite caves may seem similar, the most worthwhile experience at Carlsbad Caverns is the “Natural Entrance” – the natural path down into the cave (taking the elevator only takes a few minutes). The winding path is over a mile long and very steep, with some sections only allowing for half-step strides. If you choose to go this way, you must go all the way because going back up is even more tiring due to the uphill climb.
Natural entrance leading down to Carlsbad Caverns, a challenging and exciting experience
Many people think that dry desert areas like Big Bend and Carlsbad Caverns will have boring scenery, but when you come here, you will see that each desert has its own unique beauty, and the more you look closely, the more you see the boundless creativity of nature.
Conclusion
The most beautiful cross-state driving routes in Texas are not just journeys of transportation but also unique cultural and natural exploration experiences. From the majestic Big Bend desert to the McDonald Observatory, from Santa Elena Canyon to Carlsbad Caverns, each location offers visitors unforgettable impressions.
So what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to explore Texas today and experience the most beautiful driving routes in the world! Are you ready to conquer these routes?