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Hill Country travel Guide
Hill Country Travel Guides are usually a big help. Planning a trip can take a quite a bit of thought, especially if it's somewhere you've never been before. Hopefully this will be helpful when you're getting ready to hit the road.
I call it the Ultimate TexyHills Planning Guide. Use it to prepare for a day trip, weekend getaway, or extended vacation. It can get you thinking about things like when to visit, getting around and avoiding big crowds.
Happy travels, be safe, and enjoy yourself!
1. Getting There
The Texas Hill Country is vast, but easily accessible from the major metropolitan hubs.
Major Airports
- Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS): The ideal gateway for the northern and eastern Hill Country (Dripping Springs, Marble Falls, Burnet).
- San Antonio International Airport (SAT): The best entry point for the southern and western Hill Country (Boerne, Bandera, Kerrville, Fredericksburg).
Driving Gateways
- From Houston: Take I-10 West (approx. 3-4 hours).
- From Dallas/Fort Worth: Take I-35 South (approx. 4-5 hours).
- Scenic Entry: US Hwy 281 offers a beautiful, slower-paced entry compared to the interstate highways.
2. Getting Around
Public transportation is virtually non-existent between towns. So having a vehicle is a must. If you have your own car, you're all set. But, there are also other possibilities.
- Rentals: Both AUS and SAT airports have full rental car centers. SUVs are recommended if you plan on visiting remote ranches or parks, but sedans handle the main roads fine.
- Ride-Sharing: Uber/Lyft are available in Austin and San Antonio, and increasingly in Fredericksburg, but dono't rely on them for travel between towns or to remote wineries.
- Shuttles: Booking a shuttle or hiring a driver for wine tours is an excellent way to get around. It's perfect for all types of groups. And I would strongly recommended to ensure your safety.
- Driving Caution: Rural Roads: Many winding two-lane roads have no shoulders. Speed limits can be high (70mph+). And you never know what you might come across when you get off the pavement, so stay alert.
- Wildlife: Deer are everywhere. Avoid driving at dawn, dusk, or late at night if possible. If you must, use high beams and drive slower than the limit.
- GPS: Cell service is spotty in river valleys. Download online maps before you leave.
3. Weather & Timing
- Spring (March-May): The most popular time due to wildflowers (Bluebonnets). Expect mild days and cool nights, but more crowded.
- Summer (June-August): Very hot. Highs often exceed 100°F (38°C). This is "River Season." Plan outdoor activities for early morning and stay near water or air-conditioning midday.
- Fall (September-November): Pleasant temperatures and Oktoberfest celebrations. A great second season for camping.
- Winter (December-February): Generally mild, though ice storms can occur. Great for cozy cabin stays and visiting wineries without crowds.
4. Crowds & Traffic
- Weekends vs. Weekdays: Towns like Fredericksburg, Wimberley, and Gruene swell up with visitors on Saturdays. If you want a more quiet experience, visit Tuesday through Thursday.
- Festivals: Traffic can come to a standstill during major events (like Wurstfest in New Braunfels and the Strawberry Festival in Poteet). Check local calendars.
- Reservations: For popular swimming holes (like Hamilton Pool or Jacob’s Well) and high-end restaurants, reservations are often required weeks or months in advance.
5. Budget Expectations
Lodging
- Budget ($50-$100): State Park camping, budget motels.
- Mid-Range ($150-$250): B&Bs, standard hotels, glamping.
- Luxury ($300+): High-end resorts, luxury cabins, full-home rentals.
Food & Drink
- BBQ plates: $20-$35 per person.
- Wine Tastings: $20-$40 per person (often waived with bottle purchase).
- Casual Dining: $15-$25 per person.
6. Hill country travel guide Safety
- Flash Floods: This is "Flash Flood Alley." Heavy rain can turn dry creek beds into raging rivers in minutes. Never drive around barricades at Low Water Crossings. "Turn Around, Don't Drown."
- Heat Safety: Carry more water than you think you'll need. Heat exhaustion is common for hikers.
- Water Safety: Rivers have uneven bottoms and currents. Life jackets are highly recommended for tubers and swimmers.
7. Etiquette
- Private Land: Over 95% of Texas land is privately owned. Don't cross fences, climb gates, or enter fields for photos (even for Bluebonnets) unless clearly marked as public.
- Leave No Trace: Pack out what you pack in. This applies to State Parks and riverbanks too (actually anywhere).
- Texan Hospitality: People are friendly here. A wave to passing drivers on rural roads and a polite "Yes/No Ma'am/Sir" goes a long way.
Be Prepared before you go
Get the Ultimate TexyHills Checklist to make sure you don't forget anything.
It comes to you as a free PDF download when you sign up for The TexyHills Fan newsletter.
I will need your email address to send you the file (and of course The TexyHills Fan). But don't worry, your email is secure. And I won't use it for any other purpose.
Oh... and you will also get a free PDF version of this Ultimate TexyHills Planning Guide!
Consider it a free Hill Country Travel Guide Combo.
Don't worry — your e-mail address is totally secure.
I promise to use it only to send you The TexyHills Fan.
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