South Central · Hill Country to the Chihuahuan Desert · Statehood 1845
Texas
State
Field Guide
Texas is larger than most countries, and its landscapes go well beyond the plains. A river canyon on the Mexican border, a pink granite dome in the Hill Country, and one of the largest canyons in the United States. These are three classics and one high peak.
Updated October 2026 · Written by artist Nick Scacco
Classic Experiences
01.
West Texas · Big Bend National Park
ExploreBig BendNational Park
Big Bend National Park covers about 801,000 acres on the Mexican border, where the Rio Grande makes a large bend and cuts through three canyons: Santa Elena, Mariscal and Boquillas. The park spans desert, river and the Chisos Mountains, which rise high enough for cooler forests. It is also an International Dark Sky Park, so plan to stay after sunset. Distances are long and services are limited, so fill the gas tank and carry extra water.
02.
Texas Panhandle · Palo Duro Canyon State Park
HikePalo Duro Canyon
Palo Duro Canyon is about 120 miles long and up to 20 miles wide, with colorful rock layers reaching roughly 800 feet deep in the Texas Panhandle. The state park near Canyon, Texas, has hiking, biking and equestrian trails, and the Lighthouse Trail leads to a rock formation that is the park's best-known sight. Summer days can be extremely hot, so go early or visit in spring or fall. In summer the park hosts an outdoor musical drama in the canyon.
03.
Hill Country · Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
ClimbEnchanted Rockat Sunrise
Enchanted Rock is a huge pink granite dome in the Texas Hill Country north of Fredericksburg, rising about 425 feet above its base and about 1,825 feet above sea level. The granite is roughly a billion years old, and the rock is said to creak and groan at night as it cools. A short but steep trail climbs the dome for wide views. Day passes at this popular state natural area often need reservations, so book ahead and arrive early.
Little-Known Gem
Guadalupe Mountains: theRoof of Texas
Guadalupe Mountains National Park · West Texas · Salt Flat
Most visitors who go west head to Big Bend and skip the Guadalupe Mountains. Guadalupe Mountains National Park holds Guadalupe Peak, the highest point in Texas at 8,751 feet, and McKittrick Canyon, known for fall color. The park protects part of an ancient fossil reef built in a sea about 260 million years ago. Trails are strenuous and facilities are basic, so come prepared for wind and sudden weather.
Texas Travel Questions
What are the best places to visit in Texas outside the big cities?
Three classics are Big Bend National Park, Palo Duro Canyon, and Enchanted Rock in the Hill Country. A lesser-known stop is Guadalupe Mountains National Park. Big Bend and the Guadalupes are remote and each need several days, while Enchanted Rock is an easy day trip from Austin.
When is the best time to visit Big Bend?
Late fall through early spring has mild days and cool nights. Summer is very hot in the desert lowlands, though the Chisos Mountains stay cooler, and spring break and holidays bring crowds.
Do I need reservations for Texas state parks?
Many popular state parks, including Enchanted Rock and Palo Duro Canyon, require day-use reservations on busy days. Check the Texas Parks and Wildlife website and book before you travel.