Texas Hill Country Overland Route

The meandering 148-mile Texas Hill Country Overland route makes its way through scenic ranch lands between Marble Falls and Fredericksburg, Texas. As the route continually alternates from paved to a well-graded dirt road, be prepared to pause for cattle casually relaxing in the middle of the road. Though a beautiful and relaxing drive any time of year, the route takes on a peculiar Texas beauty in the spring as the bluebonnets bloom across the region, adding to the picturesque scenery of old farmhouses, country schools, and windmills. While the route includes numerous river crossings, all but one - the famous James River Crossing - are typically dry except during heavy rains. Easily traversed by any stock high clearance vehicle during normal conditions, the James River, as well as several other crossings, become unpassable during inclement weather. Be prepared to turn back if water levels prohibit a safe crossing. Running in parallel with sections of the Gillespie County Country Schools Driving Trail, travelers looking to do a bit more site seeing may want to take time to check out the schools along the way. Yet another option for those looking for additional things to do is to visit one of the largest bat nurseries in the country - the Eckert James River Bat Cave Preserve. While commercial camping and lodging options abound in both Marble Falls and Fredericksburg, just a few miles from either end of the trail, the only options directly along the route include a few boutique hotels in Mason, Texas. While providing the only food and fuel stop along the route, Mason also serves as an excellent midway option to take a break from the trail. Whether you are vacationing in the Texas hill country, touring the Texas wineries and breweries in and around Fredericksburg, or visiting Hidden Falls Adventure Park (the Jeep Badge Of Honor destination just outside Marble Falls), be sure to take the time to explore this beautiful and scenic Texas route.