Overview:
- Bandera to Medina
- Medina to Vanderpool
- Vanderpool to Utopia
- Utopia to Bandera
- 80 Miles – Approx 1:30 hrs
Description:
Starting in Bandera, head west on TX-16 toward Medina. On the west side of Bandera is the county fairgrounds where the “Thunder in the Hills” motorcycle rally has been held for several years. The road then winds gently through some rolling hills for 13 miles. In Medina, turn left on FM-337. Heading west on FM-337 for 20 miles, the road winds some through a valley then gains some elevation through some hills with some nice turns.
Turn left at the T at TX-187 heading toward Utopia. This road runs along the Sabinal river. There are some gentle curves with a few 90 degree turns. After 22 miles, you end up in Utopia. This small quaint town has a few places to eat, most notably the Lost Maples Café. Utopia also has in November an Annual Arts and Crafts fair which has a good turnout for a smaller town.
Going back up TX-187 north of Utopia, take a right on FM-470 toward Bandera. This road has some gentle turns for several miles, then some nice S-turns as it crosses some hills. The hills and turns generally last until you get into Tarply, after which it becomes less windy. FM-470 ends again at TX-16 where you turn right and head back to Bandera.
Road Conditions:
All roads on this route are generally chip-seal and pose no construction challenges, except as noted:
Places To Eat
Bandera:
Bandera, Texas, often referred to as the “Cowboy Capital of the World,” is a historic town in the Texas Hill Country known for its cowboy culture, scenic landscapes, and outdoor recreation. Here are a couple we like.
Old Spanish Trail
Kickback Korner Bar and Grill
Medina:
Medina, Texas, is a charming and picturesque community located in Bandera County, within the scenic Texas Hill Country. Here are some we recommend.
Love Creek Orchard/The Apple Store
The Core Coffee house
Keese’s BBQ
Vanderpool:
Vanderpool, Texas, is a small, unincorporated community nestled in the scenic Hill Country, known for its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and a tranquil atmosphere.
Lost Maples Store
Utopia:
Utopia, Texas, is a small, picturesque community located in the Texas Hill Country, known for its scenic landscapes, clear rivers, and a tranquil atmosphere.
Lost Maples Café
