If you’ve spent any time in East Texas, you’re most likely already aware that this area features some of the most scenic highways and byways in the state. Whether you enjoy cruising by vineyards and rose farms, exploring the hilly shorelines of numerous lakes, or just leisurely driving down winding, tree-covered country lanes, the roads of East Texas have a lot to offer.
Here are five of our personal favorites:
Pineywoods Autumn Trail: This picturesque drive from Athens to Palestine, commonly known as the Pineywoods Autumn Trail, is a 145-mile road trip bursting with beautiful foliage and a host of scenic stops along the route. Some of the highlights include Lake Athens, the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center, the East Texas Arboretum, and Tara Vineyard & Winery.
Daingerfield State Park to Caddo Lake: This 54-mile route passes through a number of interesting places, including the historic town of Jefferson. Daingerfield State Park is known as one of the best parks to view fall foliage, so consider starting your journey there. Along the way, you’ll pass Lake O’ the Pines. Complete your scenic drive at Caddo Lake State Park and a visit to the mystical, magical Caddo Lake.
Tyler to Rusk: The drive from Tyler south along Highway 69 will take you to Rusk, where you can check out Jim Hogg State Park and the Texas State Railroad. Just south of Rusk and Alto, visit the Caddo Indian Mounds State Historic Site and the Mission Tejas State Park near the Davy Crockett National Forest.
Carthage to San Augustine: From Carthage, head south on U.S. Highway 59. Soon you’ll be greeted with a thick canopy of trees and miles of dense forests on both sides of the road. In Tenaha, Highway 59 merges with U.S. Highway 96 and begins approaching the Sabine National Forest. About 35 minutes later, you’ll arrive in San Augustine, a settlement that boasts not just beautiful scenery, but a rich history as well.
Dan Blocker’s Ranch: Do you remember Dan Blocker, who played Hoss Cartwright on the classic TV western series, “Bonanza?” Dan once owned a beautiful ranch in East Texas. He sold it well before his death in 1972, but the breathtaking views of the ranch from Highway 154 between Rhonesboro and Rosewood live on as some of the best in all of East Texas.
As an added bonus, hop on virtually any portion of U.S. Highway 96, and you’ll be guaranteed numerous views of East Texas’ beauty, especially when you get beyond Jasper.
So gas up your vehicle and head out on the highways of East Texas this weekend. We promise you won’t be disappointed!
Please feel free to e-mail us or call us at 903-530-2488 if you have any questions or need more information about Roadrunner Acres RV Ranch. We look forward to hopefully welcoming you as one of our new residents soon!