Extreme Texas

July 24, 2013

There’s something epic everywhere you look in Texas. From the awe-inspiring Palo Duro Canyon, to natural wonders like Enchanted Rock and Natural Bridge Caverns, you’ll find landscapes begging to be explored. You’ll find countless ways to explore them, too, from hiking and biking to kayaking and canoeing. You’ll also find superb bird-watching chances, since such an incredible variety of species have flocked to Texas.

Camping

Whether you’ve got a deluxe camper with a queen-sized bed, satellite TV and – the works, – or just a bedroll and a soft rock, camping in Texas is an excellent idea. There’s such great variety in this supersized state that you can enjoy experiences from the rugged feel of west Texas to the soft breezes along the beach. Just bring your sense of adventure.

Hiking & Mountain Biking

When someone says “Take a hike, buddy!” around here, please don’t take it the wrong way. Texans are polite, hospitable folks. It’s likely a simple reminder of the endless natural diversity you can explore while getting fresh air and exercise. Mountain biking is extremely popular as well, with many paths (and non-paths) in all levels of difficulty.

Canoeing, Kayaking and Fishing

There’s water everywhere in Texas. If you want to go with the flow, there are 80,000 miles of scenic rivers and streams of every shape and size here. So the chances to paddle your way to fun and relaxation are nearly endless. Of course, if you’re a fisherman, this is one of the best places to visit. Texas has over 100 major lakes loaded with big ol’ lunker bass, plus hundreds of miles of coastal shoreline and bays full of fish just waiting for your next cast.

Cowboy country

Cowboys are alive and well in Texas. So are the dreams of climbing into the saddle and riding off into the sunset like your childhood heroes. For an authentic cowboy experience, head out to one of the many guest and working dude ranches. Or take in a rodeo and watch the real deal do their best to stay in their saddles.

Horseback Riding

You don’t have to be driving cattle to go horseback riding in Texas. In addition to the ranches, several state parks offer guided trail rides for all levels of experience. There’s even horseback riding along some beaches. Whether or not you want to call out “Yippee-ki-yay” is up to you.

Stock Shows

Texas live stock shows and fairs are a great way to experience the sights, sounds – and spirit –of our long tradition of horse and cattle showmanship. It’s also where you’ll find many of our most popular rodeos.

Western History

Whenever you feel like taking a step back in time, you can pretty much turn left or right and find a museum, attraction or landmark illustrating our rich Old West heritage. You might even learn a couple of things too, partner. What do you know about chuck wagon cooking, cowboy poetry events and western music? Very little, you say? Well then, Texas is the place for you.

Charlie was exploring the Hill Country region:

Not only is the Hill Country central to Texas and home of our capital, but many consider this the heart and soul of the state. Perhaps only here have such an array of cultural and natural features come together to create such a uniquely charming region. The land’s beautiful rolling hills, sparkling rivers and bold display of bluebonnets every Spring are matched by the independent spirit of the people and a level of cultural diversity Texans pride themselves on.

It’s Natural

Don’t be shocked, but the Hill Country is rather hilly, from lush rolling green hills to dramatic, craggy landscapes populated by cacti and scrub trees. Lakes abound and spring-fed rivers flow through bluff-filled greenbelts—a natural for swimming, hiking, mountain biking and rock climbing. Several spectacular caves reside here, as well. Like Cascade Caverns, boasting glistening drops of water on the Diamond Ceiling, a nine-story-high underground waterfall and rare wildlife, too. Another fun feature is the brilliant colour of Texas wildflowers, which make for a great family photo opportunity.

Bandera:

Founded in 1852 as a cypress-shingle camp, the town was the site of a Mormon colony established in 1854. This is one of the oldest Polish communities in the U.S. The authentic Western town, surrounded by working and guest ranches, bills itself as the “Cowboy Capital of the World.” Rodeos are held at least twice weekly, Memorial Day–Labour Day. Western re-enactments and entertainment in front of the courthouse on Saturday afternoons, March–December. Check with the convention and visitors bureau for schedule.

Horseback riding available, plus swimming in resort pools or clear Hill Country lakes and rivers. Fishing; exotic ranches available for year-round hunting; camping, hiking, rodeos, two 18-hole golf courses and various live music venues.

 

To find out more about what to see and do in Texas go to www.traveltex.com

You can also have a look at Charley’s photos from Texas, or see what he’s up to right now on twitter.