Updated October 1, 2024 04:09PM
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Everything You Need to Know About Cycling in the Texas Hill Country
Explore, relax, wine and dine, and, most importantly, bike on this Velo-approved itinerary
Explore, relax, wine and dine, and, most importantly, bike on this Velo-approved itinerary. (Photo: Morahan Visuals)
Known for its local wineries, creative culinary scene, quaint towns, and scenic landscapes, the Texas Hill Country makes for a delightful treat-yourself-style getaway. With a beautiful, rolling terrain, the landscape lends itself to biking. Whether you’re into light cycling before a day of vineyard tours and delicious eats or prefer to bikepack from one boutique hotel to the next, Hill Country has something for all types of cycling enthusiasts. Outside sent lifelong cyclist Biju Thomas and his pal Tim Johnson, a former pro cyclist, to Hill Country to uncover the best ways to explore the region by bike. Here’s what they found.
Road Biking
With seemingly endless roads to ride, Hill Country is a cyclist’s paradise. At the heart of Hill Country, Fredericksburg is the hub for all things road biking, with scenic roads connecting the historic town to the best places to explore in the region. “On the route you have the opportunities to experience wonderful, culturally-rich towns, see beautiful wildflower blooms, and taste exceptional wines made locally in Texas,” says Thomas.
If it’s your first visit to the area, join an organized bike tour. Local guide services offer multi-day tours that range from traditional bikepacking- and camping-style to biking with a side of vineyard tours, fine dining, and boutique hotel stays. Or opt for a DIY experience so you can choose every stop and be on your own schedule throughout the trip. Either way, local bike shops can set you up with rentals for your trip.
Gravel and Mountain Biking
Want to add a little variety to your Hill Country biking experience? Take it up a notch at the Flat Rock Ranch gravel trails. The 1,300-acre family-owned cattle ranch doubles as a bike park with 29 miles of enduro and downhill trails. Enjoy a mix of single and double track through the stunning terrain of Hill Country. “There are miles of gravel trails and Hill Country gives you the opportunity to experience a variety of landscapes on trails like Angel Tree and Dragon, ” says Thomas.
In typical Hill Country fashion, long hill climbs followed by flowy downhill sections are part of the package. Visiting in the fall? Don’t miss the chance to participate in the unique Texas-style enduro race, held at the park every October.
Unique Stays
After a day of pedaling and sightseeing, you’ll be ready to kick back and relax. Hang your helmet at the historic Hotel Giles, one of many boutique hotel options in the region. The 15-room property was constructed in 1880. Although the property has changed hands many times over the last 220 years, many of the original details of South Texas architecture have been preserved, giving the hotel a distinctive charm. Unwind in a rocking chair on the wrap-around porch. Or enjoy homemade breakfast, served in the carriage house each morning. Then walk right out the front door to explore the historic town on foot or by bike.
For accommodations closer to Austin, book a room at Lake Austin Spa Resort. Tucked away on a secluded bend of the Colorado River just 40 minutes from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, the resort is the perfect place to spend a few relaxing days at the end of an active bikepacking trip.
“In the Texas Hill Country, you can find accommodations that fit your lifestyle and how you want to reset,” says Thomas. “Lake Austin Spa Resort had cold plunge pools available for us to use after a long day exploring nature.”
Nearby Nature
Scenic views are all but guaranteed wherever you ride in Hill Country. But if you need a dose of nature—away from the roads—head to Enchanted Rock Nature Area. Named for the distinct pink granite dome that rises above the surrounding landscape, this park is the perfect place to take a break from pedaling and immerse yourself in nature. Hike nearly eleven miles of trails through the park, and keep an eye out for vernal pools—weathered pits in the granite that fill with rainwater, creating unique microhabitats.
“Sunset at Enchanted Rock was remarkable,” says Thomas. “ We hiked up the rock as the sun was dipping down—the sky was on fire. It was the perfect place to experience the calm of nature with a good friend.”
Looking for a place where you can take a dip? Try Inks Lake State Park for a post-pedal swim. Or hike to Devil’s Waterhole, a natural swimming hole hidden away in the rocky outcropping, just upstream of the lake.
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