City Escape: Austin, Texas

Our second largest state (behind Alaska) isn’t well known for its motorcycling roads, but small areas like the Hill Country are hidden gems to explore. As the most liberal and artsy city in Texas, Austin also offers a lively community and some of the best barbeque in the country.

Length

Approximately 140 miles

Meet-up Spot

Starbucks, 3317 Northland Dr, Austin, TX

Lunch Stop

Save room for pie at Blue Bonnet Cafe! You can find it at 211 U.S. 281, Marble Falls, TX, (830) 693-2344.

Scenery (3 out of 5)

Expect to see lots of brush, rolling hills dotted with homes, and reservoirs.

Traffic (2 out of 5)

The route is in a favorite vacation area, so people are never far. This doesn’t mean stop and go, but you won’t be the only one out there.

Difficulty (3 out of 5)

The most challenging roads are in the Balcones Canyonlands. Watch out for blind tight curves, and decreasing radiuses.

Road Conditions (3 out of 5)

In dry conditions the pavement offers great grip. When it gets wet watch out for slippery soil from runoff.

Points of Interest

Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge
Created to save natural wildlife (mainly birds, of which 245 species are found here), this area sits on top of a labyrinth of underground caves and springs.

The Falls on the Colorado Museum
This free museum is open Thursday through Saturday and features exhibits and photos on the history of Marble Falls and the Colorado River. The town got its name from the hard chert that early settlers thought looked like marble.

Barton Springs Pool
A natural, 1,000-foot-long limestone pool beckons to be jumped in after a long ride. Find it at Zilker Park.