The Scenic Byway along Highway 16 from Kerrville to Medina is one of the most exhilarating and beautiful drives in the Texas Hill Country. This winding stretch of road carves through limestone hills, shady cedar groves, and panoramic ridge lines—offering travelers a front-row seat to the natural drama of Central Texas. Known for its hairpin turns and breathtaking overlooks, it’s a favorite among motorcyclists, scenic drivers, and photographers chasing that perfect view.
Stretching just under 30 miles, this route may be short in distance but it’s packed with big visual payoffs—especially during the spring wildflower bloom and autumn foliage season. Ideal for a half-day road trip, the drive can be extended with stops in Kerrville, Medina, and even onto the legendary Twisted Sisters loop if you’re craving more hill country curves. Whether you’re coasting with the top down or cruising on two wheels, this is Texas driving at its most scenic, soulful, and unforgettable.
Why Visit Scenic Byway Hwy 16?
The Scenic Byway along Highway 16 from Kerrville to Medina is not just a road—it’s an experience. Revered as one of the most curvaceous and scenic drives in Texas, this stretch of Hwy 16 cuts through the rugged terrain of the Texas Hill Country, offering drivers, riders, and road trip explorers a visual and sensory feast. With its tight switchbacks, dramatic elevation changes, and panoramic overlooks, it’s a bucket-list drive for anyone seeking the wilder side of Texas scenery.
This route is especially popular among motorcyclists and sports car enthusiasts, but it’s equally memorable for couples seeking a romantic weekend escape, photographers chasing golden light, or anyone wanting to unwind in nature. Dotted with rustic ranch gates, high ridgelines, and wide-open skies, the drive embodies the spirit of Hill Country exploration—raw, scenic, and soul-refreshing.
The best time to visit is during spring (March–April) for vibrant wildflower blooms or fall (late October–early November) when the maples and oaks near Medina blaze with color. Summer drives are doable but warmer, while winter offers clear skies and low traffic—ideal for quiet reflection and photography.
This drive is best suited for scenic road trippers, weekend bikers, nature photographers, couples on getaway, and anyone seeking a less-traveled Texas gem. It’s not just a connector road—it’s a destination in motion.
Top Things to Do on Scenic Byway Hwy 16
1. River Trail & Louise Hays Park – Kerrville
Begin your drive with a stroll along the Kerrville River Trail, a scenic greenbelt that hugs the Guadalupe River. Louise Hays Park is the perfect starting point, featuring pedestrian bridges, picnic spots, sculptures, and splash pads. The trail offers panoramic river views and easy access to downtown shops and cafes.
Reason to Visit: A peaceful riverside park to stretch your legs before hitting the curves of Hwy 16
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time to Visit: Morning or early evening for cooler temps and golden hour light
For More Info: Visit Website
2. Medina Apple Store & Orchard Country Store
In the heart of Medina, this charming country stop is a local icon, especially during apple season (August–October). Visitors can shop for homemade pies, jams, and ciders, or grab lunch at the small café next door. Seasonal events and apple picking opportunities vary by year.
Reason to Visit: A taste of Medina’s small-town charm and Texas-grown apples
Entry Fee: Free; prices vary for food and goods
Best Time to Visit: August–October for harvest season
For More Info: Visit Website
3. Drive the Twisted Sisters Scenic Extension
If you’re craving more thrilling curves, take a detour southwest from Medina to experience the Twisted Sisters (RR 335, 336, 337)—a trio of legendary roads among the motorcycle community. The route offers jaw-dropping views, switchbacks, and remote beauty.
Reason to Visit: An extended adrenaline rush for riders and experienced drivers
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time to Visit: Spring or fall weekdays for lighter traffic
For More Info: Visit Website
4. Lost Maples Winery – Near Vanderpool
Tucked away just west of Medina, Lost Maples Winery offers tastings of Texas-made wines with gorgeous Hill Country views. Their outdoor patio overlooks the Sabinal River Valley, making it a scenic stop to relax and enjoy local flavors.
Reason to Visit: Wine tasting with panoramic views just off the Hwy 16 corridor
Entry Fee: Free entry; tastings start at $15
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for golden hour vineyard views
For More Info: Visit Website
5. Lone Star Motorcycle Museum – Vanderpool
Just off Hwy 337, this hidden gem houses a unique collection of vintage motorcycles from around the world. It’s a favorite stop for bikers and gearheads and offers a small café on-site.
Reason to Visit: Rare bikes and Hill Country biker culture in a roadside museum setting
Entry Fee: $7 for adults, $5 for seniors, $4 for children
Best Time to Visit: Weekends; open Friday through Sunday
For More Info: Visit Website
Best Time to Visit
The Scenic Byway along Highway 16 from Kerrville to Medina is a rewarding drive year-round, but spring and fall are the standout seasons for natural beauty, comfortable weather, and low-traffic conditions. Because this route is known for its curves and elevation changes, picking the right season ensures both safer driving and better views.
Spring (March to May)
Spring is arguably the best time to experience Hwy 16. Wildflowers—especially bluebonnets, Indian paintbrush, and coreopsis—blanket the roadsides and ranchlands between Kerrville and Medina. Mild temperatures in the 60s and 70s make it perfect for top-down cruising or motorcycle rides. This is also a prime time for apple blossom viewing in the orchards near Medina.
Summer (June to August)
While the hills remain lush, summer can be hot, with temperatures ranging from the upper 80s to 100°F. If you plan a summer drive, aim for early morning or late evening to avoid the heat and direct sun. Summer is also a quieter time, with fewer motorcyclists on the road during midday hours.
Fall (October to early November)
Fall brings cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage, especially in the higher elevations around Medina and Vanderpool. The changing colors of oak, maple, and cedar elms make this drive particularly photogenic. Local festivals like the Medina Apple Festival also draw in seasonal travelers.
Winter (December to February)
Winter along Hwy 16 offers clear skies and quiet roads. While there’s little to no snow, the terrain turns golden with dried grasses and exposed limestone ridges. It’s a peaceful time for a no-rush scenic drive, though mornings can be brisk with temps in the 40s–60s.
High vs. Off Season
High Season: March–May, October–November (for wildflowers and foliage)
Off Season: June–August (hot), December–January (cool, low traffic)
Directions and Parking Info
The Scenic Byway along Highway 16 from Kerrville to Medina is a compact yet powerful 26-mile drive through the Texas Hill Country, making it an ideal half-day road trip from several major Texas cities. Whether you’re coming from Austin, San Antonio, or Fredericksburg, this route is easily accessible and packed with scenic pull-offs, photo ops, and small-town charm.
From Austin
Take US-290 W to Johnson City, then follow US-281 S to TX-173 S through Bandera. At Bandera, connect with TX-16 N toward Medina. From Medina, continue north on TX-16 through the scenic drive to Kerrville.
Drive Time: ~2.5 hours
From San Antonio
Take I-10 W toward Kerrville, then exit onto TX-16 S directly into the scenic stretch. For a more rural approach, you can also reach Medina by heading west through Bandera via TX-173 N, then connecting to TX-16 N.
Drive Time: ~1.5 hours
From Fredericksburg
Take TX-16 S straight into Kerrville. From there, begin your scenic drive heading south toward Medina.
Drive Time: ~40 minutes
Navigation Tips
Use Google Maps or DriveTexas.org to verify your route and traffic conditions, especially during weekends or motorcycle rally events.
Look for scenic overlook signs and safe gravel pull-offs for photography and views—especially on the hill descents between Medina and Kerrville.
There are no gas stations between Kerrville and Medina along Hwy 16, so fuel up before entering the byway.
Parking & Road Conditions
Free parking is available at all major public stops:
Louise Hays Park in Kerrville
Medina Apple Store and cafés in Medina
Rest areas and pull-offs along the highway
Roads are two-lane, winding, and narrow in parts—motorists should drive cautiously and use turnouts to allow faster vehicles or bikers to pass.
RVs and trailers should exercise extreme caution. Some curves are tight and not ideal for large rigs, especially near steep grade transitions.
Entry Fees, Passes & Reservations
The Scenic Byway along Highway 16 from Kerrville to Medina is completely free to drive, with no tolls or access fees for the roadway itself. Most of the scenic views, roadside stops, and trailheads are publicly accessible, making this a budget-friendly road trip option in the Texas Hill Country. However, a few attractions and nearby points of interest may have small fees or reservation recommendations depending on the season.
General Access Fees
Highway 16 Drive: Free and open year-round
Louise Hays Park (Kerrville): Free entry and parking
Medina Apple Store: Free entry; prices vary for apples, pies, and goods
Sabinal-area wineries and museums (optional detours): Tastings or admission typically $5–$15
Lone Star Motorcycle Museum – Vanderpool
Entry Fee: $7 adults, $5 seniors, $4 children
Hours: Friday–Sunday, 10 AM – 5 PM (seasonal)
Reservations: Not required for individuals or small groups
Lost Maples Winery (nearby in Vanderpool)
Tasting Fee: $15 per person for flight tastings
Reservations: Recommended for groups on weekends
Texas State Parks Nearby (Optional Add-Ons)
If you plan to extend your trip to Lost Maples State Natural Area or Garner State Park, both charge entrance fees:
Lost Maples Entry Fee: $6 for adults, free for children under 13
Texas State Parks Pass: $70 annually per household – offers unlimited access to over 89 parks
Reservations: Highly recommended in spring and fall via the Texas State Parks Reservation Portal
Where to Stay Nearby
1. Y.O. Ranch Hotel – Western-Inspired Comfort in Kerrville
The Y.O. Ranch Hotel is a Hill Country staple, offering rustic elegance with modern comfort. Inspired by the legendary Y.O. Ranch, this full-service hotel features Western décor, a large outdoor pool, an on-site restaurant, and proximity to downtown Kerrville and Louise Hays Park. It’s the ideal base if you’re starting your Scenic Byway Hwy 16 drive from the north end.
Address: 2033 Sidney Baker St, Kerrville, TX 78028
Phone: (830) 257-4440
Price Range: $130–$180 per night
Rating: 4.4 stars
Parking: Free on-site parking for cars, trucks, and trailers
For More Info: Visit Website
2. Medina Highpoint Resort – Scenic Cabins and RV Camping
Located just south of Medina and nestled in the hills, Medina Highpoint Resort offers breathtaking ridge-top views, fully equipped cabins, RV sites, and tent camping options. It’s a fantastic option for travelers who want to stay immersed in nature while enjoying modern amenities like a resort pool, hiking trails, and a general store.
Address: 23195 TX-16 N, Medina, TX 78055
Phone: (830) 589-2411
Price Range: $85–$225 per night (cabins and RV sites)
Rating: 4.7 stars
Parking: Free on-site parking for all vehicles including trailers and RVs
For More Info: Visit Website
3. River Trail Cottages – Stylish Riverside Escape in Kerrville
Located just steps from the Guadalupe River and the River Trail, River Trail Cottages blend modern design with Hill Country serenity. Each cottage is uniquely decorated and features kitchenettes, private decks, and direct trail access. It’s a quiet and cozy spot ideal for couples or small families looking to stay near the north end of the byway.
Address: 1701 Junction Hwy, Kerrville, TX 78028
Phone: (830) 928-9002
Price Range: $110–$160 per night
Rating: 4.8 stars
Parking: Free guest parking directly outside each cottage
For More Info: Visit Website
Food & Drinks Nearby
1. Camp Verde General Store & Restaurant – Historic Dining in Center Point
Set in a beautifully restored 1857 stone building, Camp Verde General Store & Restaurant is a beloved Hill Country landmark located between Kerrville and Medina. The restaurant serves elevated Southern fare—think chicken-fried steak, jalapeño cornbread, and pecan pie—in a relaxed, rustic setting. After your meal, browse the general store for gourmet foods, Texas gifts, and housewares.
Address: 285 Camp Verde Rd E, Center Point, TX 78010
Hours: Daily, 10 AM – 4 PM (kitchen closes at 3:30 PM)
Pricing: $12–$25 per person
Distance from Main Route: ~15 minutes from Kerrville
For More Info: Visit Website
2. Love Creek Orchards Patio Café – Farm-to-Table in Medina
Attached to the Apple Store in Medina, this charming café serves apple-inspired dishes, fresh salads, sandwiches, and house-made desserts in a shaded outdoor garden. Their apple pie a la mode and apple cider pulled pork sandwich are must-tries—especially during fall apple season.
Address: 14024 TX-16 N, Medina, TX 78055
Hours: Monday–Saturday: 10 AM – 3 PM; Sunday: 11 AM – 3 PM
Pricing: $10–$18 per person
Distance from Main Route: Directly on Hwy 16
For More Info: Visit Website
3. Pint & Plow Brewing Co. – Local Beer and Bites in Kerrville
A favorite community gathering spot, Pint & Plow Brewing Co. offers a rotating selection of handcrafted beers, locally roasted coffee, and a seasonal food menu featuring flatbreads, tacos, and vegetarian-friendly options. Their outdoor beer garden is perfect for relaxing after your Hwy 16 adventure.
Address: 332 Clay St, Kerrville, TX 78028
Hours: Wednesday–Sunday: 8 AM – 10 PM (closed Mon–Tues)
Pricing: $12–$20 per person
Distance from Main Route: In central Kerrville, minutes from Hwy 16 start point
For More Info: Visit Website
Local Tips for Visiting
Start your drive early – Mornings offer cooler temperatures, softer lighting for photography, and lighter traffic—especially on weekends.
Use low gear on steep descents – Hwy 16 includes several sharp curves and sudden elevation changes. Downshift in advance to avoid overheating brakes.
Watch for motorcycles – This route is extremely popular with bikers. Stay alert, especially on blind curves and narrow shoulders.
Pull over for photos safely – Use designated scenic pull-offs and gravel shoulders. Do not stop on sharp turns or bridges.
Fill your gas tank in Kerrville or Bandera – There are no fuel stations directly on the Hwy 16 stretch between Kerrville and Medina.
Avoid large RVs or trailers if possible – The curves and grades can be tight and challenging for oversized vehicles.
Travel light during harvest season – If visiting during apple season (August–October) in Medina, expect increased traffic and crowded cafes.
Pack water and snacks – Once you’re on the byway, there are few stops with provisions until you reach Medina.
Look for wildlife at sunrise and sunset – Deer often cross the road early or late in the day—drive cautiously during those hours.
Bring binoculars or a camera with zoom – Vistas over the Guadalupe River Valley and Medina Ridge are ideal for birdwatching and landscape photography.
What Else Is Nearby?
1. Lost Maples State Natural Area – Vanderpool
Famous for its brilliant fall foliage, Lost Maples is a must-visit detour just 30 minutes west of Medina. The park offers hiking trails through canyons, maple groves, and riverbeds. It’s especially popular from late October through mid-November, but its scenic beauty and wildlife sightings make it worth visiting year-round.
Distance: 30 miles west of Medina – ~40-minute drive
Why Visit: Stunning fall colors, canyon trails, and native Uvalde Bigtooth Maples
2. Garner State Park – Concan
Located along the Frio River, Garner State Park is one of Texas’s most beloved parks for tubing, hiking, and overnight camping. The scenic overlooks and riverbank views are a perfect addition to your Hill Country road trip if you want to turn your scenic drive into a weekend retreat.
Distance: 45 miles southwest of Medina – ~1-hour drive
Why Visit: Hilltop views, crystal-clear river, and excellent hiking and swimming
3. Stonehenge II – Ingram
Just outside of Kerrville, this quirky and artistic roadside attraction is a replica of England’s Stonehenge—complete with two Easter Island head statues. It’s a quick and fun stop with plenty of photo opportunities and picnic spots.
Distance: 15 minutes from Kerrville – ~10 miles west
Why Visit: Unique roadside photo op and cultural curiosity tucked in Hill Country
Final Thoughts on Visiting Scenic Byway Hwy 16
Driving the Scenic Byway along Hwy 16 from Kerrville to Medina is one of the most memorable ways to experience the raw, rugged beauty of the Texas Hill Country. With its thrilling switchbacks, elevated ridgelines, and quiet countryside, this route delivers more than just miles—it offers moments of reflection, wide-open views, and a refreshing escape from city life. Whether you’re stopping for pie in Medina, snapping golden-hour shots from a gravel overlook, or cruising beneath a canopy of wildflowers and oaks, every turn holds something special.
This drive isn’t about rushing—it’s about soaking in the journey, feeling the connection between land and sky, and appreciating the hidden rhythm of the Hill Country. From motorcycle riders to weekend couples, the Scenic Byway welcomes anyone seeking a road that’s not just scenic, but soulful. Pair it with a visit to a local winery, a picnic in Louise Hays Park, or a hike through Lost Maples, and you’ve got a road trip that hits all the right notes—peaceful, picturesque, and uniquely Texan.
