Scenic Drives in Texas Hill Country

Few road adventures match the variety and beauty of scenic drives in Texas Hill Country, especially in the region near Bandera. From the rugged twists of the Twisted Sisters to the floral vistas of Willow City Loop and the dramatic limestone ridges of the Devil’s Backbone, this area draws drivers, motorcyclists, and explorers eager to experience its natural wonders. Each route offers a unique perspective on the landscapes that make Hill Country a legendary Texas destination.

Setting the Scene: Bandera as a Starting Point

Bandera, known as the “Cowboy Capital of the World,” sits about 50 miles northwest of San Antonio. Its small-town charm, western history, and welcoming atmosphere make it an ideal starting point for scenic road trips through Texas Hill Country. Visitors often find themselves drawn to Bandera’s local eateries, country shops, and historic attractions before heading out to explore the surrounding byways.

Twisted Sisters (RM 335, 336 & 337)

The Twisted Sisters is a famous network of three ranch-to-market roads—RM 335, RM 336, and RM 337—forming a loop of about 100 miles through the heart of Hill Country. The most celebrated section is RM 337, running from Medina to Camp Wood. This segment features more than 65 sharp curves within a 15-mile stretch, making it a favorite for motorcycle and car enthusiasts seeking both challenge and beauty. Along the way, travelers encounter steep climbs, dramatic ridge views, canyons, and minimal guardrails, all set against a backdrop of oak and juniper-covered hills.

RM 337 is especially well known for passing through a region dubbed the “Swiss Alps of Texas,” where rolling hills and striking limestone formations evoke a distinctly Alpine landscape. Key stops along this drive include the Lone Star Motorcycle Museum in Vanderpool and the Frio Canyon Motorcycle Stop in Leakey, offering rest and refreshments to travelers.

Willow City Loop

Located northeast of Bandera and just outside Fredericksburg, the Willow City Loop is a 13-mile stretch of country road celebrated for its spring wildflowers. During March and April, fields along this route burst with bluebonnets, Indian paintbrush, coreopsis, and phlox, attracting photographers and nature lovers from across Texas. The drive also features scenic rock outcrops, deep canyons, and wide-open vistas that highlight the region’s geological variety.

Because the Willow City Loop passes entirely through private property, visitors are asked to remain on the road and avoid stopping on the roadside or entering fields, especially during wildflower season. The best time to visit for fewer crowds is on a weekday morning, as weekends and peak bloom periods can bring heavier traffic.

The “Swiss Alps of Texas” Experience

The nickname “Swiss Alps of Texas” applies to the section of RM 337 between Leakey and Camp Wood, where the road climbs and descends through steep canyons, tight switchbacks, and panoramic overlooks. The landscape’s resemblance to the European Alps is most evident in spring, when wildflowers accent the rocky terrain and deep green valleys spread below the road.

Travelers along this route may also spot the Frio River winding through the canyons, and several overlooks provide space to stop and enjoy the sweeping views. The “Swiss Alps of Texas” section is both visually impressive and a highlight for drivers looking to experience the Hill Country’s most dramatic scenery.

Devil’s Backbone near Wimberley

To the east of Bandera lies the Devil’s Backbone, a winding limestone ridge route just outside Wimberley. This drive offers dramatic views of the Wimberley Valley, rugged hills, and wooded canyons. The road is paved and well-maintained but features tight curves and changes in elevation that keep drivers engaged.

The Devil’s Backbone area is popular with both locals and visitors for its natural beauty and easy access to attractions in Wimberley, such as shops, riverside parks, and swimming spots. The route pairs well with other Hill Country drives, creating a varied and memorable driving experience across the region.

Best Time to Travel & Seasonal Highlights

The most popular time for scenic drives in Texas Hill Country is spring, when bluebonnets and other wildflowers blanket the roadsides, especially on the Willow City Loop and near the “Swiss Alps of Texas” section. Peak bloom typically occurs from late March through April, depending on the year’s rainfall and temperatures.

Autumn brings a different palette, with Lost Maples State Natural Area lighting up in shades of red and gold, and milder weather making the roads comfortable for all-day exploring. Summers can be hot, but early morning or late afternoon drives offer dramatic sunlight on the region’s distinctive limestone ridges and canyons.

Scenic drives near Bandera reveal the best of Texas Hill Country, from the challenging curves of the Twisted Sisters and the wildflower corridors of Willow City Loop to the Alpine-inspired vistas of the “Swiss Alps of Texas” and the rugged beauty of Devil’s Backbone near Wimberley. Whether exploring for a day or making several trips, each road showcases a different facet of this storied region. With every turn, travelers discover why the Hill Country’s roads continue to inspire awe and adventure year after year.