Home Care In Vanderpool, TX

On a scale of 1-10, how ready are you to pack away swimsuits and sandals in exchange for sweaters and boots? We can’t wait for the weather to change, and we’re dreaming about which gorgeous natural areas we’d like to visit this fall in search of vibrant foliage and outdoor adventures. Here are our picks for .

Lost Maples State Natural Area 37221 F.M. 187 Vanderpool, TX 78885 Dubbed a, “Changing Beauty,” Lost Maples State Park is a sanctuary to Uvalde bigtooth maples, whose foliage exudes hues of red, orange, and yellow each autumn (wait, Texas has seasons?). You can even keep track of the leaves changing colors with the park’s Fall Foliage Color Report (which should be updated later this fall). A sight and a spectacle, visitors will also find the natural area is great for year-round hiking and exploring over 10 miles of trails that loop along a 2,200-foot cliff. Fishing, bird watching, star gazing, and geocaching are more outdoor activities that will get the fall family fun going! Book your park passes here!

Garner State Park 234 RR 1050 Concan, TX 78838 This popular vacation destination on the Frio River is a seasonal beauty worth the trip year-round. Garner State Park sits upon a thrilling terrain of dramatic canyons, brisk streams, and limestone cliffs located on the edge of the Edwards Plateau. Bald Cypress trees sit at the river’s edge, bowing over with lush vegetation while Texas Madrones nestle into canyon nooks, their unique red bark giving the area a warm kiss of color. Picnics, hiking trails, canoeing, miniature golf, fishing; no shortage of activities here! Reservations are suggested to enter the park and cabins are available to rent for those extra cozy fall feels.

McKinney Falls State Park 5808 McKinney Falls Parkway Austin, TX 78744 Located just 13 miles from the Capitol, McKinney Falls State Park can seem worlds away from the hustle and bustle of our growing city. This State Park offers camping, hiking, mountain and road biking, geocaching, bouldering, fishing, swimming and picnicking. Onion Creek forms most of the northern boundary of the park and spills over limestone rocks at the Lower Falls into a popular swimming hole. McKinney Falls is particularly beautiful during spring wildflower season when bluebonnets greet you from the roadside and in the fall when the foliage is bursting with shades of orange and yellow.

Zilker Botanical Garden, Photo via Heidi Okla

Zilker Botanical Garden 2220 Barton Springs Rd Austin, TX 78746 Looking for nature a little bit closer to the city? The Zilker Botanical Garden is a 26-acre natural oasis that is home to The Taniguchi Japanese and Mabel Davis Rose Gardens supported in beauty by live oaks, Koi-filled ponds, a mishmash of cultivated plants, sunny lawns, and more. A “jewel in the heart of Austin,” the garden is a sight not to be skipped in your fall planning. Purchase a photography session for $50 to snap your cute fall family photos. It’s never too early to start thinking about Christmas cards!

Schumacher’s Crossing. Photo via Texas: A Beautiful State of Mind

Schumacher’s Crossing Hunt, TX 78024 The untouched and charming-as-heck small town, Hunt, is located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country with the good ol’ Guadalupe River running smack dab in the middle of it and forking just outside of town. Schumacher’s Crossing is a swimming hole on the river, offering crystal clear waters and a shadowy oasis thanks to the native Bald Cypress trees surrounding the area. The lush river greenery transforms yearly into a true fall beauty boasting pops of bright yellow next to the bustling spring-fed river. Snag a picnic table on the bank for a perfect and picturesque fall outing! Check out this helpful fact sheet.

Gorman Falls, Photo via TPWD

Gorman Falls 2236 Park Hill Dr. Bend, TX 76824 Become one with nature and wilderness at the rugged and breathtaking Colorado Bend State Park. Patrons can enjoy tent camping, the cool waters of Spicewood Springs, a wild cave tour, freshwater fishing, and 35 miles of hiking and bike trails! But perhaps the sight most marveled is the jungle-like 70-foot spring-fed Gorman Falls. The waterfall is guided by layers of travertine formations, which amass over time through evaporating spring waters. The vegetation is lush from base to peak along rocky, and sometimes slippery, three-mile terrain. Lace-up those hiking boots and get ready to experience a must-visit fall wonder! Reservations are recommended and can be made here. Please note: due to a fallen tree, park headquarters are closed (as of July 15, 2023), though the park remains open. You can pay for entrance at the fee booth at the main entrance, but there will be no ice, firewood, water, or concession items available. More info here.

Enchanted Rock; photo by Heidi Okla

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area 16710 Ranch Rd. 965 Fredericksburg, TX 78624 A mystical and massive (425 feet, to be exact) dome reaches toward the Texas sky and swirls with 12,000 years of area history as well as legends of magic and spiritual powers believed by the Tonkawa Indians. Pink granite, called batholith, peaks through patches of evolving shrubbery and lichens growing on Enchanted Rock. Warm colors come to life at golden hour and radiantly reflect on the basin below. Explore 11 miles of hiking trails to the top for spine-tingling Hill Country views. Reserve your visit here.

Mount Bonnell, photo by Heidi Okla

Mount Bonnell 3800 Mount Bonnell Rd Austin, TX 78731 Well, folks, you don’t have to travel far or wide for this one. Mount Bonnell has been said, and it’s been done, but we’ll never stop boasting our city’s natural awe and wonder. After a mild 102-stair climb, you’ll find yourself 775 feet up, engulfed in a tranquil haze as the sun rises and sets over the Colorado River Valley. Once settled, take in a breath of fresh fall air (or well, humidity, at this point) and the familiar, but fascinating stretch of an always-beautiful Austin.

Happy Fall, Y’all!

While many associate fall’s natural beauty with the more northern states, you will not want to miss out on what the south has to offer when the seasons change. Texas, the second largest state by size and population, is home to some of the country’s most unique and scenic autumn landscapes. Ranging from rugged desert canyons to enchanting maple forests, this Lone Star State truly comes alive from October through November.

The leaves in Texas may change a little later than the state’s northern counterparts, but if you visit any of these small towns during their peak-foliage, you will realize it was well worth the wait. Along with the exceptional fall hues, adventure can be found at every corner. Whether breathing in the wonders of the country’s second largest canyon at Palo Duro Canyon State Park or walking alongside real dinosaur tracks at Dinosaur Valley State Park, these Texas towns are truly a sight to behold in the fall.

More in TexasDiscover 12 of the most adorable small towns in Texas.

Concan

The unincorporated community of Concan, Texas may be quiet, but its gateway to nature is one of the most sought-after in the state–especially during the fall season. For just $8 USD per day (children 12 and under enter free) you can immerse yourself in the wonders of Garner State Park. With 1,774 acres of rugged terrain to explore, and 2.9 miles of the grand Frio River (a tributary of the vast Nueces River), the opportunities for adventure are endless.

The park’s maples, oaks, persimmons, and mesquites take on the colors of fall that we all know and love, and late October is when the foliage is at its best. With limestone bluffs overhead, the forest at your feet, and the river winding throughout, any hike along the park’s 16-mile trail system will enchant and delight. The flat, half-mile Blinn River Trail is an excellent option for easygoing river views, while paths like the Old Baldy Trail (despite its equal distance) offer a more strenuous excursion up the canyon, with fanstastic views every step of the way.

Daingerfield

In the town of Daingerfield, you will find another Texas State Park whose community comes alive with the changing seasons. Thriving since its completion in 1939, Daingerfield State Park has some of the best fall hikes in Texas, inviting you to explore its 500-square-acres of unparalleled landscapes, including Little Pine Lake, the 80-acre, man-made marvel. For an easy, scenic hike, loop around its 2.4-mile shore.

For a more challenging hike, take on the 1.2-mile Mountain View Trail and earn the reward of the highest point in the park. Making your way through the park’s “cathedral of trees” on this path, the forest’s towering oaks and dogwoods are especially sensational in the fall. Transformed with reds and yellows, the hardwoods mingle with pines for a scene that is both aromatic and beautiful.

Pittsburg

Less than 20 minutes west from Daingerfield, you can find yourself in Pittsburg. Not to be mistaken for the Pennsylvanian megacity, this small town had around 4,400 residents as of the 2020 census, but the population swells in the fall–and for good reason. Lake Bob Sandlin State Park, known for its namesake, the dazzling Lake Bob Sandlin, is forested with sweetgum trees, whose green, maple-like leaves adopt a vibrant ruby hue in the autumn. A visit anytime between mid-October through mid-November will earn you the best views of this magical transformation.

The lake draws its own crowds in the fall, both with the promise of gorgeous sights and spirited fish. For many, the 9,000-acre lake is a blissful 30-minute walk, the Lakeview Loop notorious for its views of waterfowl and the occasional bald eagle. For others, the lake allows for the perfect fall fishing day, catfish and bass thriving below the lake’s calm waters.

Canyon

If bright fall foliage beckons you this fall, given its mountain desert climate, you may be surprised to hear the Texas Panhandle town of Canyon could be the place for you. This underrated Texas town is a gateway to the majestic Palo Duro Canyon State Park, which is known for possessing the second largest canyon in the United States. For this reason and more, Duro Canyon lures large crowds year-round. The 120-mile-long, 20-mile-wide natural wonder has a massive 800-foot drop, displaying its gorgeous multi-colored geologic layers in what is truly an awe-inspiring display of time's wear on the land.

It is unsurprising, that of its 442,000 annual visitors, most visit the park during the summer. But in fall, you encounter two prominent benefits: one, being the lack of shoulder-to-shoulder crowds, allowing you to experience a more undisturbed visit. Even more exciting though, are the park’s iconic cottonwood trees, whose leaves take on a glowing yellow in the fall. Meander through the easy 1.4-mile (one-way) Cottonwood Trail to take in the vibrant savannah, one of Texas’s more unique autumn landscapes.

Fort Davis

5,050-feet-high in the foothills of the Davis Mountains, you will find Fort Davis, “the highest town in Texas”. But before you settle in to experience everything this mountain town has to offer, consider heading off on the 75-mile Davis Mountains Scenic Loop for one of Texas’s most scenic road trips. Find yourself on gorgeous mountain roads, taking in the sights of the vast desert prairie. Pass the Limpia and Madera Canyons, Mt. Livermore, Sawtooth Mountain, and eventually–back in town–reacquaint yourself with the sights of Miter Peak and the Puertecita Mountains off in the distance.

Fort Davis itself is brimming with epic landscapes, many of which can be viewed at Davis Mountains State Park. As with the Palo Duro Canyon, you may be surprised to learn the Davis Mountains host some of the state's most unique fall foliage. Head-to-head with mighty canyon walls, take in the brightly transformed oak trees scattered throughout the grassy terrain. A hike to higher elevations, on the other hand, may reward you with views of the pinyon pines, a tree not generally seen in Texas’s western desert region. The 2.4-mile Limpa Creek Trail is one of the more popular autumn paths, guiding you through Limpia Canyon for a slow 550-foot incline. At the trail’s end, you are welcomed with breathtaking views of the mountains.

Dell City

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is one of two national parks in Texas, and the town of Dell City will grant you entrance to the splendor of this Chihuahuan Desert setting. To experience a scenic mountain escape alive with the colors of the season, head toward the northern end of the park, as the McKittrick Canyon Trail is famous for its fall foliage. From mid-October through mid-November, the park’s oaks and maples take on a life of their own, oranges and reds creating a picture-perfect fall setting.

With over 80-miles of winding trails, you will also want to experience the landscapes the park is loved for year-round. It is worth noting, the Guadalupe Mountains contain 4 of the tallest peaks in Texas–the highest of which is accessible through the Guadalupe Peak Trail. This conifer forest hike may be challenging, but it is well worth the effort once you reach the top. The views of the southern El Capitan peak are jaw-dropping, to say the least.

Vanderpool

Driving through Texas Hill Country in the fall, the picturesque community of Vanderpool will definitely catch your eye. The first thing you will notice are the magnificent views of the rolling Sabinal Canyon, but this is just the beginning of Vanderpool’s charms. The main feature luring visitors to town in the fall, is the Lost Maples State Natural Area, a park renowned for its incredible hiking trails, some of which include the uncommon Uvalde bigtooth maple.

The bigtooth maples generally adopt their signature scarlet leaves in the last 2 weeks of October through the earlier weeks in November, so this is when the park is at its busiest. They suggest attending on a weekday if possible, as parking is limited, and the crowds will be pouring in. Out of the 10-total-miles of hiking paths at the Natural Area, the 3-mile East Trail is one of the more difficult paths, but it is also one of the more popular hikes, for good reason. The trail follows the spring-fed Sabinal River, bigtooth maples dotting its shores, before ascending a rugged slope with spectacular views overlooking the park.

Glen Rose

Finally, for those seeking a blend of natural bliss and exciting family fun, make your way to Glen Rose, the "Official Dinosaur Capital of Texas". Witness the incredible fossilized dinosaur tracks at Dinosaur Valley State Park, and walk the same paths these fascinating creatures walked so long ago. Keep in mind, the iconic footprints are located in a riverbed, and are not always visible, so you will want to call ahead to confirm.

Fall is an especially great time to visit the park, as the summer crowds thin and the weather cools to a more ideal hiking temperature. The Limestone Ledge Trail is favored for its access to the site where the world’s first sauropod trackway was discovered (but be ready to get a little wet, since you will be crossing the Brazos River’s tributary, the Paluxy River). For dryer trails surrounded by the season’s colors, opt for the Oak Springs Trail (a woodlands path with springs) or the Overlook Trail for a bird’s-eye view of the river below.

From its colossal canyons to its heavenly lakes and rivers, these small Texas towns invite you to experience the tranquility of bidding summer farewell in some of the country’s greatest landscapes. Whether hiking Daingerfield’s cathedral of trees or driving the Davis Mountains Scenic Loop, Texas’s fall season is as spirited as it is striking. While the changing leaves may require a little more time and patience, allow the season’s reds and yellows to bewitch you this season–you will not be disappointed.

The saying goes, “everything is bigger and better in Texas,” but even so, you will not want to overlook this southern state’s small towns. Along with a hospitality like no other, outdoor enthusiasts will find some of the best gateways to adventure in these charming communities, from state parks to nature preserves and everything in between. Whether you make a pitstop on your way to a Houston vacay or simply need a break from city life, rivers, canyons, waterfalls, and waterholes are waiting to be hiked, biked, swam, and explored. Here are 7 of the best small towns in Texas with some of the most beautiful and wondrous pockets of nature in the state–and in the country.

Concan

With just a few hundred residents, Concan may not have a ton to do as far as flashy attractions, but outdoor enthusiasts will find they hit the jackpot with this tiny town. The grand Frio River runs right through it, so the views alone are spectacular, but water recreation is a must. Rent a tube or kayak at Josh’s Frio River Outfitters before hitting up the Concan Swimming Hole for a day of swimming, floating, or lounging riverside under a canopy of shade trees.

If you are hungry for more of Concan’s great outdoors, make your way to Garner State Park. With almost 3 miles of winding Frio waters, there is more than enough space to go around, making it easier to avoid crowds. Paddle boats, tubes, and kayaks are available for rent right in the park if you would prefer the convenience of an easy return. Once you have had your fill of water fun, geocaching is a fun land-based activity, along with the 16 miles of hiking paths. Take the challenging half-mile Old Baldy Trail for a bird’s eye view of the Frio River Canyon, or the more mellow 3 mile Frio Canyon Trail to experience the fascinating formations right at eye level.

Burnet

Like Concan, Burnet may be small but its backyard is anything but. With 2 state parks within a 20 minute drive from town, Burnet serves as an excellent homebase for nature lovers. The further of the 2 is Inks Lake State Park, home to its namesake, a sparkling 803 acre reservoir attached to the Colorado River. Rent a boat at the park store or take advantage of the lake’s no-wake zone with a canoe, double kayak, or stand-up paddleboard.

Water skiing and scuba diving are also popular at Inks Lake, but if you would prefer a swim away from the busier water sports, you can always hike to the Devil’s Waterhole. Tucked away where Inks Lake and Spring Creeks converge, this serene swimming spot is surrounded by massive rocks and ridges, making it a bit more secluded and well worth the 7 minute hike through the Devil’s Waterhole Nature Trail.

After a day of lake fun, finish your visit at the vastly underrated Longhorn Cavern State Park (just 10 minutes from Inks Lake) to tour the “National Cave of Texas.” Carved by an ancient river millions of years ago, this intricate limestone cave system is one of the most special natural landmarks in all of Texas. The guided tour will teach you about the myths and legends of the cave, including the tale of Sam Bass, an outlaw who supposedly stashed millions of dollars in this very cavern.

Karnack

Over in eastern Texas, the rural village of Karnack grants entry to Caddo Lake, the largest natural lake in the state surrounded by the world’s largest cypress forest. You will find this stunning 26,810 acre body on the edge of the Big Cypress Bayou in Caddo Lake State Park. Other than keeping your distance from the roaming gators, the adventures here are limitless. The park’s cypress-lined water is especially beautiful when paddled through, so whether you rent a canoe from the park office or bring one from home, this is one of the most exhilarating outdoor experiences in all of Texas.

More experienced and adventurous paddlers can try out the Hell’s Half Acre Paddling Trail, an 8.8 mile, 3 to 4 hour loop across the bayou and lake’s bewitching landscape. Anglers, on the other hand, might prefer to cast their line from shore since a fishing license is not required, and over 70 species of fish live below the lake’s surface. Landlovers can also explore the 2.5 miles of trails, like the Caddo Forest Trail, Pine Ridge Loop, or Pine Ridge Spur. The blended pine-oak forest and towering uplands feature a quieter escape and a different side of the park’s natural beauty.

Vanderpool

If serene forest trails are your ideal outdoor adventure, look no further than the Lost Maples State Natural Area in Vanderpool. Driving into town, the views of Sabinal Canyon’s forested hills hint at the views to come. The natural area itself is a mosaic of colors, especially in the autumn when the park is at its busiest. Of the 200,000 people who visit each year, fall lures the largest crowds, visitors flocking to the area’s bright foliage. The rare bigtooth maples take on a gorgeous red in late October, which can be photographed and admired on the easygoing 0.4 mile Maple Trail.

For the remaining 9.6 miles of trail, majestic limestone canyons and towering forests wait to be explored. For an enchanting trek through sycamore, maple, and bald cypress trees, take the 3 mile East Trail along the Sabinal River. More experienced hikers may prefer the reward of a steep climb, with solitude and striking views of the Mystic Canyon area, on the 3.6 mile West Trail. A detour from this path will bring you to the West Loop Trail, where a spectacular Ashe juniper grove grows. This is the perfect place to pause or have a picnic away from busier trails. The one thing for certain in this beautiful greenspace, is no matter your hiking ability, there is a gorgeous tree-dotted path for you to follow.

Johnson City

Some assume Johnson City–the hometown of former US president Lyndon B. Johnson–was named after him. But really, locals have the town’s founder, James Polk Johnson, to thank–both for the town’s name, and for its proximity to the glorious Pedernales River. Visit the Pedernales River Nature Park to experience what lucky locals have access to year-round. The 222 acre riverside park is a great place to picnic, kayak, or fish from shore under the shaded oak trees. Sweet and simple, this park is a refreshing way to get out into nature for a relaxing day on the water.

Also perched on the Pedernales River, Pedernales Falls State Park offers a more active nature escape. The 5,212 acre park is focused around the racing river, where swimmers and sunbathers can be spotted lounging on the river’s prominent limestone slabs. Keep in mind, the only way to access the swimming area is through a pretty strenuous quarter mile hike, so make sure to wear good shoes. These will come in handy for your hike to the north end of the park, where Pedernales Falls sits as the main attraction.The broad waterfall cascades across the limestone steps in a truly breathtaking way, so the trek is beyond worthwhile.

Dripping Springs

As a “Gateway to the Hill Country”, Dripping Springs has some of the prettiest natural surroundings in all of Texas. The town is less than 30 minutes from Johnson City, and you will find one of its main natural attractions, Reimers Ranch, on the very same Pedernales River. The serene 3 mile riverfront can be explored by foot, although rock climbing the limestone cliff walls above the river is by far the most popular feature of the nature preserve. But the views from ground are stunning in their own right, so whether you climb the cliffs or appreciate them on one of the 18 miles of trail by hike, bike, or horseback, you will leave Reimers Ranch feeling exhilarated.

The most popular natural attraction in Dripping Springs though, is the Hamilton Pool Nature Preserve. The 200 acre park is so captivating, that in order to avoid a thrall of eager crowds, reservations are required to visit. Surrounded by a cavern of enormous stone slabs, the 50 foot waterfall falling from the canyon is the star of the show. Take a dip in this iconic emerald swimming hole to see why people come here year-round from all across the country.

Bastrop

Although Bastrop is thought of as "the most historic small town in Texas,” its nature is equally out of this world. Camping is a favored weekend activity at Lake Bastrop North Shore Park, whose 182 acres feature an array of lakeside picnic areas, scenic bike trails, and affordable watercraft rentals. The South Shore Park is another option that anglers and boaters prefer for access to the park’s piers and rentable pontoons. Both parks, however, feature a nice mix of rustic campsites and cozy cabins. So whether you are hoping to enjoy a night under the stars or the comforts of a warm bed, these charming campgrounds are the best way to experience the beautiful bass-filled lake.

Bastrop State Park is another beloved camping spot in town, famous for its Lost Pines Forest. More than 75,000 acres of loblolly pine trees flourished in the area until wildfires overtook the park in 2011, but nature’s resilience is part of the park’s charms. The half acre Mina Lake is great for casting a lazy fishing line, and hikes through the 7 mile trail system allow you to experience the park’s inspiring blend of old and new growth forest. Book a stay in any of the historic cabins to see what life was like for outdoor enthusiasts back in the 1930’s, or rent a classic campsite. Either choice rewards you with Bastrop’s tremendous natural beauty.

Final Thoughts

Texas may not be at the very top of our list when we think of the best nature destinations in the country, but these small towns prove that maybe it should be. From its jaw-dropping canyon hikes to its storybook swimming holes, the landscapes here are as vast as they are beautiful. Plus, with so much of our daily lives centered around screens, getting out into nature is something the whole family can benefit from. The best part is, so many of the nature preserves and state parks in Texas are filled with trails and experiences fit for a range of abilities. From Vanderpool’s easygoing forest strolls to Johnson City’s challenging waterfall hikes, there is a path for any outdoor enthusiast in these Texas small towns.

We’re back with three more Sunday drives to get you out of the house while still practicing your social distancing.

This time, we’re heading into the Texas Hill Country on Interstate 10, so the drives are longer but even more beautiful, taking you on twisty, turny country roads and through small picturesque Texas towns.

We’ve again included several can’t-miss stops for each and, with help from the Express-News’ trusty Taste team, a recommended restaurant to grab a bite.

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A word of warning, however: Hill Country businesses often keep limited hours, so call ahead before you go. Fortunately, the roads are open 24/7.

Kerrville Loop

The longest route in the bunch, this one begins and ends in Kerrville, passing through burgs like Medina, Vanderpool and Ingram.

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It also passes by the front door of Lost Maples State Natural area. This time of year, the bigtooth maples there should just about be at the peak of their fall color change. Check the park’s Fall Foliage report at tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/lost-maples for up-to-date info. Also, like in the best restaurants, reservations are recommended to get into the park, especially on busy weekends. Call 512-389-8900 to make sure you don’t miss out.

Don’t miss:

Lost Maples Country Store: 33533 RM 187, Vanderpool, 830-966-3568, lostmaplesrvandcamping.com. More a working grocery than a cutesy odditorium, LMCS serves a community that doesn’t have a big-box store on every corner. For travelers, it’s a welcome opportunity to gas up, get something to drink and maybe buy some jerky.

Lone Star Motorcycle Museum: 36517 RM 187, Vanderpool, 830-966-6103, lonestarmotorcyclemuseum.com. With more than 60 motorcycles on display, some more than 100 years old, this museum is sure to get your motor running.

Stonehenge II: 120 Point Theatre Road S., Ingram, 830-367-5121, hcaf.com/stonehenge-ii. On the grounds of the Hill Country Arts Foundation, the re-creation stands 90 percent as high as the mythic original — but probably three times the size of the one from “This is Spinal Tap.”

Where to go for a bite: Hill Country Cafe: 806 Main St., Kerrville, 830-257-6665, Facebook: Hill Country Cafe. Start (or end) your drive at this cafe that has a small-town atmosphere with home-cooked food to match.

On ExpressNews.com: 3 scenic drives in Medina Lake area with spots not to miss.

Willow City Loop

If you’ve ever climbed Enchanted Rock, you’ve likely driven RR 965, a scribble of a road that runs north from Fredericksburg, past the 400-foot-high pink granite dome and on to Texas 16.

You might be tempted to skip the Willow City Loop cutoff and continue on Texas 16 to Fredericksburg. Don’t. The narrow winding road takes you through some of the oldest geology in the state, with deep canyons and picturesque meadows that burst with color during wildflower season.

Don’t miss:

Blue Skies Retro Resort: 13372 Texas 16, Willow City, 830-515-4787, blueskiesretroresort.com. If you want to spend the night, you can’t do better than one of five reissued Shasta travel trailers. All have private yards and bathrooms, outdoor showers and a shared pool and covered pavilion with a propane grill. Trailers sleep two to three people and prices range from $100 to $351 per night.

Pecan Grove Store: 5244 Texas 16, Fredericksburg, 830-990-4433, pecangrovestore.com. Look for the Sinclair dinosaur logo out front. Part service station, part diner, part live music venue. Check the online calendar for performance schedules and try the Dino Burger made from a half-pound of ground chuck, not dinosaur.

Kuckuck’s Nest: 3150 Texas 16, Fredericksburg, 830-997-9707, kuckucks-nest.co. A Bavaria-inspired gift shop and boutique, the Cuckoo’s Nest, as the name translates, is the place to satisfy all your imported lederhosen needs.

Where to go for a bite: Emma + Ollie, 607 S. Washington St., Fredericksburg, 830-383-1013, emmaolliefbg.com. Chef Rebecca Rather’s new breakfast-and-lunch bakery and cafe is a salve for those who miss her Rather Sweet Bakery. While the dining room is still closed, a small outdoor patio is available for sit-down dining.

On ExpressNews.com: We suggest 7 scenic San Antonio drives to get you out of the house

Dance Halls and Wineries Loop

You’ll see plenty of wineries, dance and music halls and even some longhorn cattle on this up-and-back route between Interstate 10 and U.S. 290. These are some really narrow roads, so put your phone down and pay attention.

Don’t miss:

Saint Tryphon Farm & Vineyards: 24 Wasp Creek Road, Boerne, 830-777-6704, sainttryphon.com. Named one of the Hill Country’s 10 Best Wineries in the Express-News’ “2019 Top 100 Dining & Drinks” guide, the family-run winery’s specialties include mourvèdre, trebbiano and pétillant naturel.

Luckenbach Texas General Store, Bar & Dancehall: 412 Luckenbach Town Loop, Fredericksburg, 830-997-3224, luckenbachtexas.com. The unincorporated Hill Country town immortalized by Waylon Jennings’ classic, “Luckenbach, Texas (Back to the Basics of Love)” is still a music mecca with a full calendar of performances. For $1.60, you can also buy a Luckenbach decal to humblebrag about being there.

Old Tunnel State Park: 10619 Old San Antonio Road, Fredericksburg, 866-978-2287, tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/old-tunnel. After the old Fredericksburg and Northern Railway abandoned this tunnel bored through solid rock, a colony of 3 million Mexican free-tailed bats have since taken up residence. Visitors can watch as the bats emerge each night from May through October, but reservations are required.

Where to go for a bite: Black Board Bar B Q, 1123 Sisterdale Road, Boerne, 830-324-6858, blackboardbarbq.com. Named the second-best barbecue in the area, Black Board does brisket with Waygu, sausage with wild boar and creamed corn with Brussels sprouts. It’d be worth the drive even if the scenery wasn’t as spectacular. Pick up a bottle of red from St. Tryphon just up the road to pair with your ’cue.

Richard A. Marini is a features writer in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. To read more from Richard, become a subscriber. [email protected] | Twitter: @RichardMarini

Oct 13, 2020|Updated Oct 19, 2020 5:55 p.m.

Richard A. Marini is a features reporter for the San Antonio Express-News where he’s previously been an editor and columnist. The Association of Food Journalists once awarded him Best Food Columnist. He has freelanced for American Archaeology, Cooking Light and many other publications. Reader's Digest once sent him to Alaska for a week. He came back. Email Richard at [email protected].

The weather in Texas is notoriously unpredictable, which means — across much of the state, anyway — we never really know when that first cold front will arrive to mark the unofficial start of autumn. One thing that never changes, however, is the stunning fall foliage and a plethora of festive activities to enjoy during the harvest season. In no particular order, here are 12 of the most beautiful fall getaways in Texas.

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This Texas Boat Ride Leads To The Most Stunning Fall Foliage You've Ever Seen

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How many of these best places to visit in Texas in October have you checked off your fall bucket list? Did we miss your favorite spot? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

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While the Lone Star State has no shortage of bucket-list-worthy fall destinations, if we had to pick just one best place to visit in Texas in October, it would be the Dallas Arboretum. Each year, the arboretum holds its annual Autumn at the Arboretum fall festival, which transforms the gardens into an autumn wonderland complete with nearly 100,000 pumpkins, gourds, and squash. Exact dates vary from year to year, but the event typically begins in mid-September and runs through the end of October. It's truly a fairy tale come to life, so make plans to visit this season!

What are the best pumpkin patches in Texas?

Of all the best pumpkin patches in Texas, one of our favorites has to be Dewberry Farm. Located in Brookshire, just an hour west of Houston proper, this sprawling autumn oasis comes alive with festivities during fall. The pumpkin patch sits on multiple acres of land, featuring hundreds of pumpkins that are each unique in their own special way. Take a free hayride out to the patch, pick a couple of pumpkins, then ride back to the main farm to keep the fun going all day long. Other activities include a train ride, corn maze, and lots of delicious food.

Where are the best places to see fall foliage in Texas?

One of the best places to see fall foliage in Texas is – surprisingly — Guadalupe Mountains National Park. Most people don't associate autumn leaves with the desert, but some of the higher-elevation trails in the park showcase spectacular seasonal splendor. In particular, the McKittrick Canyon Nature Trail features especially breathtaking fall scenery — and the best part is that it's under a mile long!