Road trips are both nostalgic and forward-looking, evoking memories of long-past family vacations as well as a sense of adventure as you explore new places. They’re also an inexpensive way to see the sights of your chosen destination. The Highland Lakes is mapped out for just such a drive with plenty of points of interest along whichever route you choose.
So fuel up, pack snacks, and open a navigation app. Or, follow the 30-mile Highland Lakes road trip below, which hits four of the six lakes and offers a few short detours.
This trek begins at the birthplace of the Highland Lakes: Buchanan Dam. Completed in 1938, it formed Lake Buchanan, the first and largest of what would become a chain of six lakes along the Colorado River. Start on the Lake Buchanan’s west bank at Black Rock Park, where you can fish, swim, kayak, and play mini-golf.
TEXAS 261 to TEXAS 29
From there, head south on this shore-hugging, photo-friendly stretch of Texas 261, then turn east on Texas 29. The red and white lighthouse you see on the left is not open to visitors, but you can snap pictures from the road.
In a couple of miles, pull over at the Lake Buchanan-Inks Lake Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center for free brochures and maps, travel tips from friendly staff, and souvenirs. Out back is an observation deck with views of Inks Lake and Buchanan Dam. You might even glimpse a bald eagle during nesting season. Although this Highland Lakes road trip continues eastward from this point, consider a couple of diversion-worthy attractions a few miles to the west.
The Fain’s Honey retail store is a sweet spot for gift packs, flavored honeys, mead, and natural soaps. Or, shop for locally made arts and crafts at the Buchanan Art Gallery.
About a half-mile east of the visitor center, you’ll cross Inks Lake. To the right, is the old steel-truss bridge that carried traffic on Texas 29 until the early 21st century. It’s now a pedestrian bridge.
PARK ROAD 4
Just over a mile from the bridge, head south on historic Park Road 4, a scenic thoroughfare any time of year and a must-see during the spring wildflower season. About 4 miles to the right is a top Highland Lakes attraction, Inks Lake State Park, well worth a long stopover — and a dip in Devil’s Waterhole — if your schedule permits. From here, Inks Dam National Fish Hatchery lies about 3 miles away. Hike its free trails, watch for wildlife, or tour the hatchery.
Hungry yet? Hang on for another mile past the hatchery for Hoover’s Valley Cafe, a longtime comfort food stop. Just across the road, sample local vintages at Perissos Vineyard and Winery.
In about a mile, turn south on RM 2342 or stay on Park Road 4 a couple of more miles to visit Longhorn Cavern State Park. The park’s cave tours, distinctive Civilian Conservation Corps architecture, and free hiking trails make the backtrack worth it. On the way there, keep a lookout for a castle peeking over the trees.
RM 2342
Traveling southbound on RM 2342, you’ll reach Kingsland in about 5 miles. Take a right (westbound) on RR 1431, cross Lake LBJ, and go a few more blocks to the historic Antlers Inn, an iconic hotel that’s hosted travelers since 1901. The Antlers’ signature restaurant, Hooper’s, has a history of its own. The fully renovated structure it occupies was the home used in the 1970s horror classic “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre.” It was relocated from Round Rock to Kingsland in 1998 and turned into a restaurant.
Take RR 1431 eastbound to Wakepoint LBJ, which offers “fuel, food, fun” and open views of Lake LBJ. Grab a burger and barbecue, stock up on provisions, and get gas for the return trip. Wakepoint also hosts regular music performances and washer tournaments as well as special events. From Kingsland, stay on RR 1431 for 16 miles to Marble Falls, but don’t pass up a photo op at the Lookout Mountain overlook, about 4 miles outside of Kingsland on the right (look for the “Scenic Overlook” sign). Capture an expanse of Lake LBJ for your social media feeds.
U.S. 281
For the first-time Highland Lakes traveler, the Marble Falls Visitor Center, 100 Avenue G off of U.S. 281, is a valuable resource with maps, guides, and knowledgeable volunteers. Across the highway is historic Main Street, where you can stroll, shop, and sample the city’s charming, walkable downtown lined with a variety of boutiques and dining options.
Nearby is Lakeside Park and Lake Marble Falls, the smallest of the Highland Lakes. Relax on a sandy beach, cool off in the water, picnic in the park, and watch paddleboarders pass by. A quick walk away are Johnson Park and Falls Creek skate park.
This Highland Lakes road trip stops here, but with 101-plus things to do and see in every direction, it doesn’t have to be the end point for you. Keep driving, keep exploring, and safe travels.
Click on “Highland Lakes Vacation” at the top of 101HighlandLakes.com for more guides to this special piece of the Texas Hill Country. And if you have more time to spare, check out (and check off) “A Highland Lakes Bucket List.”