There’s something about Texas that just calls to riders. Maybe it’s the wide-open spaces, the long stretches of highway that seem to go on forever, or the way the sun sets like a fireball over the horizon. Or maybe it’s just the sheer variety—twisties in the Hill Country, desert roads out west, coastal rides near the Gulf, and backroads that take you through sleepy little towns where time moves slower, and the best barbecue of your life is just waiting for you.

For those of us who live to ride, Texas is a goldmine of motorcycle adventures. Whether you’re straddling a cruiser, an adventure bike, or (like me) a Can-Am Spyder because you decided life’s too short to stress about gravel and hairpin turns, Texas offers something for every kind of rider.

The Twists and Turns of Texas Hill Country

If you’ve spent any time in Texas, you’ve probably heard of the Three Sisters (Twisted Sisters) Route—a legendary trio of ranch roads (335, 336, and 337) winding through the heart of the Texas Hill Country. These roads are packed with sharp curves, blind rises, and enough elevation changes to make your stomach flip if you’re not paying attention.

The ride starts near Leakey, Texas, a small town that feels like a welcome home for bikers. It’s got gas, food, and the always-biker-friendly Frio Canyon Motorcycle Stop, where you can grab a cold drink and swap stories with other riders.

What makes the Three Sisters special isn’t just the technical riding (which is fantastic); it’s the landscape—towering limestone cliffs, rolling ranch land, and the occasional wild hog darting across the road just to keep you on your toes. Keep an eye out for loose gravel and stray cattle, because this isn’t your average Sunday cruise.

If you need a place to stay, The Historic Leakey Inn is a cool, rustic option with biker-friendly lodging and a solid location to use as a home base for exploring the Hill Country.

Big Bend: The Closest You’ll Get to Riding on Mars

If you’ve never ridden in Big Bend National Park, do yourself a favor and put it on your bucket list. It’s remote—like, “make sure you filled up your tank two stops ago” remote—but that’s part of the magic.

The ride into Terlingua alone is worth the trip. This old mining ghost town-turned-artsy-biker-hangout is home to The Starlight Theatre, a legendary restaurant and bar where you can kick back with a beer and some Texas chili after a long ride through the desert.

Inside the park, Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive is the go-to paved route, offering views that make you feel like you’re riding through a John Wayne western. And if you’re the adventure-seeking type (or on a dual-sport bike), River Road is a gravel stretch that follows the Rio Grande and is about as close to the wild, untamed West as you’ll ever get.

Just remember: gas stations are few and far between out here. The last reliable fuel stop is in Study Butte, so don’t push your luck thinking you’ll find something in the middle of nowhere.

The Gulf Coast: Wind in Your Face and Salt in the Air

For a completely different kind of ride, Texas’ Gulf Coast delivers some of the best scenic cruising in the state. The Bluewater Highway from Galveston to Surfside Beach is a must-do, giving you miles of ocean views, sandy beaches, and the smell of salt in the air.

This is one of those easy, relaxing rides where you can just settle into the rhythm of the road. There are plenty of seafood shacks along the way—Seafood & Steak at Pier 30 in Freeport. This laid-back waterfront spot serves up Gulf-caught favorites like shrimp, oysters, and snapper, along with juicy steaks for those craving something heartier. With live music on the weekends and an open-air deck overlooking the water, it’s a perfect stop for riders looking to refuel and soak in the coastal vibes before hitting the next stretch of road.

For a great place to stay in South Padre Island, check out Isla Grand Beach Resort. This beachfront resort offers comfortable rooms, tropical vibes, and a biker-friendly atmosphere. With on-site dining, a massive pool, and direct beach access, it’s a solid choice for riders looking to unwind after a long day on the road. Plus, it’s close to local hotspots like Clayton’s Beach Bar & Grill, one of the largest beach bars in Texas—perfect for grabbing a cold drink and watching the sunset over the Gulf.

Out-of-the-Way Spots Worth the Ride

Texas is full of small towns that seem built for the kind of rider who likes to take the road less traveled. Here are a few hidden gems worth checking out:

• Luckenbach – Yes, the one from the Willie Nelson song. It’s tiny, but if you like country music, cold beer, and old-school Texas charm, this is your spot.
• Marfa – Famous for its mysterious lights and artsy vibes, it’s a quirky stop if you’re heading west.
• Jefferson – One of Texas’ most haunted towns, complete with old hotels and a Wild West feel. If you like a little ghost story with your ride, this place delivers.

Gas Stops: What You Need to Know

Texas is big. Like, really big. Running out of gas isn’t just inconvenient—it can mean being stranded in the middle of nowhere with spotty cell service and nothing but cows to keep you company.

A good rule of thumb: If you see a gas station and you're below half a tank, stop and fill up. This especially applies in places like Big Bend, West Texas, or the vast stretches of road between small towns. Major highways have plenty of fuel, but the backroads? Not so much.

For those of us on three wheels, range anxiety isn’t as big of a deal, but for two-wheeled riders, having an extra fuel bottle (like a RotopaX mounted to your bike) isn’t a bad idea.

Riding in Texas: Know Before You Go

• Weather – Texas likes to keep you on your toes. It can be 90°F in the afternoon and drop to 50°F after sunset. Summer is brutally hot, and winter can surprise you with an ice storm, so check the forecast before you go.
• Wildlife – Armadillos, deer, wild boar—they’re all out there, and they all seem to think the middle of the road is a great place to hang out. Stay alert, especially at dawn and dusk.
• Speed Limits – Everything’s bigger in Texas, including the speed limits. Some highways hit 80 mph, but backroads can change limits quickly, so keep an eye on the signs.

Ride Texas, Ride Free

Whether you’re tackling the twisties of the Hill Country, chasing sunsets in Big Bend, or cruising along the coast with the ocean breeze in your face, Texas offers some of the best motorcycle riding in the country. It’s got the variety, the scenery, and the open roads that make you remember why you started riding in the first place.

So, gas up, gear up, and hit the road—because Texas is meant to be explored on two (or three) wheels.