Autumn in Texas may not get the spotlight like New England, but Hill Country puts on a surprisingly colorful show — especially around San Antonio. When October rolls in, the trees along rivers, cliffs, and scenic roads transform with vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold. A fall foliage road trip near San Antonio is your chance to slow down, embrace the crisp air, and reconnect with nature through its most photogenic season.
From river valleys to state parks and heritage trails, the region is filled with places that offer serene drives, scenic hikes, and small-town charm — all kissed by fall color. Whether you’re planning a relaxing weekend getaway or a spontaneous day trip, these routes deliver the ultimate autumn escape.
Why Fall Road Trips Near San Antonio Are Magical
San Antonio’s central location gives you easy access to some of the most scenic spots in the Hill Country. The mix of bald cypress, oak, sycamore, and pecan trees creates a rich autumn palette, especially along riverbanks and in parks. Fall weather is ideal for road tripping — cool mornings, warm afternoons, and golden light that enhances every turn.
The fall foliage peak typically lands between late October and mid-November, depending on rainfall and temperatures. Bring your camera, your coziest sweater, and a sense of wanderlust — it’s time to chase fall color.
Top Fall Foliage Road Trips from San Antonio
1. Lost Maples State Natural Area
The crown jewel of Texas fall foliage, Lost Maples is a must-visit during autumn. Known for its Uvalde bigtooth maples, the park glows with red, orange, and gold from late October through mid-November. Hike the East Trail for stunning canyon views and a canopy of color.
Address: 37221 FM 187, Vanderpool, TX 78885
Hours: Daily, 8 AM – 5 PM
Approx Cost: $6 per adult, free for children under 12
Famous For: Texas maple trees and scenic canyon hikes
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Reserve your day pass early — fall weekends fill up fast.
2. Guadalupe River State Park
With towering cypress trees lining the riverbanks, this park is perfect for leaf peeping close to San Antonio. The River Trail offers peaceful walks under glowing foliage, and you can picnic or wade in the river for a serene fall afternoon.
Address: 3350 Park Rd 31, Spring Branch, TX 78070
Hours: Daily, 8 AM – 10 PM
Approx Cost: $7 per adult, free for children under 12
Famous For: Vibrant riverside foliage and family-friendly trails
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Arrive early for parking near the river — it’s the most scenic spot for leaf viewing.
3. Garner State Park via Highway 83
This westward route takes you through classic Hill Country terrain with panoramic views, open ranchlands, and stunning fall colors near the Frio River. Garner State Park itself offers hiking, camping, and river access surrounded by towering autumn trees.
Address: 234 RR 1050, Concan, TX 78838
Hours: Daily, 8 AM – 10 PM
Approx Cost: $8 per adult, free for children under 12
Famous For: Fall hikes and Frio River foliage
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: The Old Baldy Trail gives the best elevated views of the colorful valley below.
4. Boerne to Comfort via TX-46 and FM 473
This loop offers a peaceful and charming fall drive. Oak and pecan trees paint the roadsides with golden tones, while the small towns of Boerne and Comfort invite you to stop for antique shopping, wineries, and cozy cafés.
Address: Begin on TX-46 W from Boerne to FM 473 into Comfort, TX
Hours: Open 24/7
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Small-town charm and scenic autumn loops
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Pair your drive with a stop at James Kiehl River Bend Park for fall views along the Guadalupe.
5. Enchanted Rock Scenic Loop
Driving around the iconic pink granite dome is even more beautiful in the fall. The roads near Enchanted Rock feature rocky bluffs, clear skies, and pops of fall color from mesquite and oak trees. Hike the loop trail or stargaze after dark.
Address: 16710 Ranch Rd 965, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
Hours: Daily, 6:30 AM – 10 PM
Approx Cost: $8 per adult
Famous For: Fall hikes and granite dome scenery
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Book entry passes online in advance to avoid being turned away at capacity.
Packing Tips for a Fall Road Trip from San Antonio
- Lightweight layers: Mornings are cool, afternoons warm
- Binoculars for birdwatching or wildlife spotting
- Camera or smartphone with HDR mode for capturing fall color
- Reusable water bottles and energy snacks
- Trail shoes or hiking boots
- Travel blanket and folding chairs for scenic breaks
- Small cooler with picnic lunch or local treats
- Offline map apps or printed directions
- First-aid kit and allergy meds
- Journal or sketchbook for fall memories
Food & Drink Stops Along the Way
1. The Dienger Trading Co. – Boerne, TX
Housed in a 19th-century building, this upscale café and bakery is a favorite fall stop. Grab a seasonal latte, homemade quiche, or pastry before continuing your scenic drive.
Address: 210 N Main St, Boerne, TX 78006
Hours: Mon–Sat, 7 AM – 5 PM
Approx Cost: $10–$20
Famous For: Bakery goods and historic atmosphere
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Sit outside under the oaks for a front-row seat to Boerne’s autumn beauty.
2. Comfort Pizza – Comfort, TX
A laid-back, artisan pizza spot in a small-town courtyard, complete with twinkling lights and wood-fired pies. Ideal for a fall evening dinner.
Address: 802 High St, Comfort, TX 78013
Hours: Wed–Sun, 11 AM – 8 PM
Approx Cost: $12–$25
Famous For: Wood-fired pizza and outdoor patio
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Try the fig and prosciutto pizza paired with a local Hill Country wine.
3. Bluebonnet Café – Marble Falls, TX
This iconic Texas diner has been serving comfort food since 1929. Perfect for breakfast or lunch before or after your foliage-filled Enchanted Rock detour.
Address: 211 US-281, Marble Falls, TX 78654
Hours: Daily, 7 AM – 8 PM
Approx Cost: $10–$20
Famous For: Pie happy hour and homestyle plates
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Order the coconut cream pie — it’s famous for a reason.
Accommodations Along the Scenic Route
1. Meyer Inn – Comfort, TX
Nestled along Cypress Creek, this boutique inn offers beautiful fall views, private porches, and walking distance to antique shops and cafés.
Address: 845 High St, Comfort, TX 78013
Hours: Check-in 3 PM, Check-out 11 AM
Approx Cost: $150–$250/night
Famous For: Peaceful fall views and elegant comfort
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Book a creekside cottage for the best leaf-peeping views right from your porch.
2. Foxfire Cabins – Vanderpool, TX
Rustic cabins near Lost Maples that offer a cozy stay after a day of hiking and leaf chasing. Fire pits, river access, and a peaceful setting make it a top choice.
Address: 19946 TX-187, Vanderpool, TX 78885
Hours: Check-in 3 PM, Check-out 11 AM
Approx Cost: $130–$200/night
Famous For: Rustic charm and proximity to Lost Maples
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring groceries — the area has limited dining options, especially after dark.
3. Fredericksburg Herb Farm – Fredericksburg, TX
A garden retreat with cottages surrounded by herbs and flowers. It’s especially beautiful in fall when cooler temps and golden foliage make for a tranquil stay.
Address: 405 Whitney St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
Hours: Check-in 3 PM, Check-out 11 AM
Approx Cost: $180–$300/night
Famous For: Spa, gardens, and serene ambiance
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Enjoy a spa treatment after a long hike or fall foliage drive.
Local Tips for Fall Foliage Drives
- Peak foliage usually runs late October through mid-November
- Weekdays are less crowded than fall weekends
- Stay overnight to catch golden hour and morning mist
- Bring a tripod for better fall photography
- Some parks have limited cell signal — download directions in advance
- Always carry cash for small-town shops or park entries
- Book state park day passes online during peak weekends
- Stop often — the drive is the destination
Final Conclusion
Fall may come quietly to Texas, but around San Antonio, it arrives with rich color and crisp air that’s perfect for scenic road trips. Whether you’re winding through river valleys, hiking under golden trees, or sipping cider in a small-town café, these fall foliage drives offer unforgettable autumn experiences.
Pack a picnic, bring your camera, and let the leaves guide your journey — because there’s nothing like Hill Country in the fall.
