One of America’s favorite pastimes is road tripping. So why not pick out a road trip to take from Houston? As weather heats up and summer break settles up, round up friends and family and head out on the road. There are plenty of nearby destinations from Houston that are perfect for a weekend getaway or long summer getaway. We’re bringing you 5 road trips to take from Houston for you to check out this summer!
Hike to Gorman Falls
Where: Colorado Bend State Park
Distance from Houston: 4 hours 19 minutes
Why: If you’re want to get outdoors, head to Colorado Bend State Park and hike the hearth of the park to get to Gorman Falls. Gorman Falls is a secluded little spot 1.5 miles into the park. The challenging hike is worth it once you see the beautiful oasis at the end! Plus, the fund doesn’t stop with Gorman Falls! You can enjoy camping, hiking, mountain biking, fishing, caving, paddling, birding and wildlife viewing, plus swimming and guided tours around the park.
Dig Up Bones at Dinosaur Valley State Park
Where: 1629 Park Rd 59, Glen Rose, TX 76043
Distance from Houston:260 miles (4 hours 9 minutes)
Why: A top family friendly road trip destination is Dinosaur Valley State Park. Walk along the Paluxy River and see the footprints dinosaurs left there long ago. Explore the park hunting for dinosaur tracks, camp, hike on over 20 miles of trails, mountain bike, swim and fish in the river, geocache, go horseback riding or camp over night here. There are plenty of opportunities for family friendly fun here. If you’re after family friendly road trips to take from Houston, this is a great place to start.
Watch the Gators in Brazos Bend State Park
Where: 21901 FM 762 Rd, Needville, TX 77461
Distance from Houston: 45 miles
Why: One of the best quick and easy road trips to take from Houston is to Brazos Bend State Park. It is a favorite spot for camping, fishing and experiencing Texas wildlife. Enjoy camping, picnicking, hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing and fix on 6 lakes throughout the park. Beware of the gators! There are gators throughout the park so pay them due respect and they don’t mess with you. You can also check out George Observatory for stargazing programs.
Get Wild at Big Bend National Park
Where: Big Bend National Park, TX
Distance from Houston: 605 miles (8 hours 42 minutes)
Why: If you don’t mind sitting in the car a bit longer, one of our favorite road trips to take from Houston is the lengthy adventure to Big Bend National Park. If you’re looing for hiking trails, the options are endless. There are more than 150 miles of trails to explore on day hikes or backpacking trips. Hike in the mountains, past rivers and among desert landscapes; the variety of scenery here is incredible. You can also take river trips and float along the Rio Grande, or Santa Elena Canyon.
Explore Palo Duro Canyon
Where: 11450 State Hwy Park Rd 5, Canyon, TX 79015
Distance from Houston: 9 hours 14 minutes
Why: Believe it or not, Palo Duro Canyon is the second-largest canyon in the United States. Hiking trails can be challenging so start with the easier trails, like Lighthouse Peak. You can explore the canyon on bike, horse, by foot or even in your car. There are more than 30 miles of trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. You can camp, geocache, study nature or bird watch. As you explore the canyon, you’ll be on land rich with the history and tradition of Native American tribes that once called it home. While the drive is a bit longer, this is one road trip to take from Houston that you’ll never forget.
Are you ready to get out and explore Texas? These are 5 road trips to take from Houston that we think you should go out and try. Grab up your family and friends, and hit the road to these Texas destinations. Whether you’re a serious hiker, a nature photographer, a fisherman or are simply after some quiet time, there is a road trip waiting for you. Let us know what your favorite road trips to take from Houston are! As always, stay tuned to our blog for all things eat, shop and play around Houston and beyond!
