Top 5 Texas Bluebonnet Destinations
As we reach peak bluebonnet season, driving down highway roads brings breathtaking views of wildflowers growing in massive numbers. The next six weeks or so are the peak season and a perfect time to take a road trip to bluebonnet hotspots to enjoy our bluest time of year. Here are five of the best places to see bluebonnets in Texas.
Austin
At the top of the list is our capital city, which is home to more than one incredible bluebonnet-viewing site. One of the most popular stops is the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, which always offers an impressive display for visitors. Not far from there lie St. Edward’s University’s expansive bluebonnet fields. Balcones District Park and McKinney Falls State Park both have bountiful offerings too.
Marble Falls
Just northwest of Austin, Marble Falls provides some scenic bluebonnet viewing. Turkey Bend Recreation Area is a nice family-friendly spot for wildflower scouting. Another popular area, especially for those looking to snap a great photograph, is the so-called Bluebonnet House, which sits abandoned in a large field of bluebonnets. The striking contrast between the worn 19th-century building and the fresh bluebonnets makes for a hauntingly beautiful scene. Local tales about the house also add an interesting dimension to the experience.
Ennis
Bluebonnet season brings many visitors to “the bluebonnet city” of Ennis. Here, visitors can enjoy 40 miles of bluebonnet trails — some of the oldest in the state — sponsored by the Ennis Garden Club. Members of the club drive the trails regularly and report a weekly bloom status to keep visitors updated on peak blooming times — generally mid- to late-April.
Burnet
Burnet holds the distinct honor of being the Bluebonnet Capital of Texas. A simple drive through the area will reveal some of the best roadside wildflower views in the state — and there are also beautiful hills, lakes, and landscapes to enjoy. Burnet even hosts its own Bluebonnet Festival in mid-April, drawing 30,000 people every year.
Big Bend National Park
If you are in search of a remote and nature-centric location, Big Bend National Park has been experiencing massive bluebonnet blooms in recent years. This beautiful, remote national park has over 100 miles of paved roads for convenient bluebonnet and wildflower viewing. Because of its isolation, the National Park Service recommends coming prepared and reviewing their website guidelines before traveling.
Snap the best bluebonnet photos with this photographer’s guide.
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