Sometimes, the best therapy is a full tank of gas and the open road. Denton, Texas—a creative college town with vintage charm—is the perfect launch point for scenic drives that take you through quiet backroads, historic byways, and rolling Texas hills. Whether you’re road-tripping solo, with a partner, or as a family, Denton’s surrounding countryside offers peaceful, photo-worthy escapes that refresh the soul.
These scenic drives are close to town but feel a world away. You’ll pass through farmland, horse ranches, state parks, and charming small towns that beg for a stop. This guide shares seven picturesque drives, plus foodie stops, cozy accommodations, travel tips, and everything you need for a relaxing road trip around Denton.
So roll down the windows, hit play on your favorite playlist, and discover the most beautiful routes near Denton for your next Texas adventure.
Overview of Scenic Road Trips Around Denton
Denton is uniquely situated at the edge of rural North Texas and the Prairies & Lakes region, making it an ideal home base for laid-back drives through nature. Within 30 to 90 minutes, you can reach rolling vineyards, sunflower fields, wildlife preserves, and peaceful lakeshores. Many of these routes weave through two-lane country roads where wildflowers line the fences and time seems to slow.
Beyond the visual beauty, these road trips offer connection—whether it’s quiet conversation with your co-pilot, stopping to explore a roadside antique store, or catching a sunset from a hilltop lookout. Most drives loop back to Denton, giving you easy access to great food and overnight stays after your day on the road.
Each route in this guide highlights a scenic road, nearby attractions, and tips to enhance your relaxing road trip experience.
Best Scenic Drives Near Denton, Texas
1. Greenbelt Corridor Drive (FM 428 to FM 455 Loop)
This 22-mile loop along FM 428 and FM 455 skirts the northern edge of Denton and passes through quiet farmland, pastures, and the Greenbelt Corridor.
Address: Start from US-380, loop FM 428 to FM 455 and back
Hours: Open 24/7
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Bucolic country roads lined with oak trees, horses, and greenbelt access points.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Pull over at Greenbelt Trailhead for a short walk along the Elm Fork of the Trinity River.
2. Lake Ray Roberts via FM 455
FM 455 east of Sanger offers a slow, winding drive past farmland and wooded areas leading to Lake Ray Roberts State Park—a perfect nature detour.
Address: Start from Sanger, TX and head east on FM 455 to the park entrance
Hours: Daily, 6 AM – 10 PM
Approx Cost: $7 per person park entry
Famous For: Beautiful shoreline views, wildflower fields in spring, and shaded picnic spots.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy it lakeside—fewer crowds on weekdays.
3. Bolivar Loop Drive
A quiet country loop that begins in Denton, heads northeast toward the historic Bolivar community, and returns via FM 2450—filled with open sky and rural beauty.
Address: Loop: US-380 to FM 2164, left on FM 455, then FM 2450 back to town
Hours: Open 24/7
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Rolling pastures, old barns, and wide-open vistas—especially during golden hour.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Stop by Bolivar Cemetery for a quiet stretch break and Texas history.
4. Krum and Ponder Backroads Route
This scenic drive weaves through small farming towns like Krum and Ponder. The two-lane highways are peaceful and bordered by tall grass, grazing cattle, and country charm.
Address: Take US-380 west, loop through FM 1173 and FM 2449
Hours: Open 24/7
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Bucolic North Texas views and old-town charm in Krum and Ponder.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Grab a to-go pie from Mom’s Cafe in Ponder to enjoy along the way.
5. I-35 to Valley View Scenic Spur
Take I-35 north for a quicker drive to Valley View, then exit onto FM 922 west for scenic hilltop views, horse farms, and photo-worthy Texas sunsets.
Address: Denton to Valley View via I-35, exit FM 922
Hours: Open 24/7
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Expansive country landscapes and sunset viewing near rolling hills.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Head back just before dusk for perfect golden light hitting the prairies.
6. Denton to Pilot Point Wildflower Drive
A springtime favorite, this 30-minute drive along FM 2931 and FM 455 is lined with wildflowers, especially bluebonnets and Indian paintbrush during March and April.
Address: Denton to Pilot Point via FM 2931
Hours: Open 24/7
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Wildflower blooms and equestrian ranches with scenic fencing and open fields.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Visit early morning to catch dew-covered flowers and avoid traffic.
7. Pecan Creek Road Scenic Shortcut
This short but stunning drive cuts through shaded woods and over low creek crossings. It’s a favorite of local cyclists and drivers alike.
Address: Start at Sherman Dr (FM 428), turn onto Pecan Creek Rd
Hours: Open 24/7
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Canopied country roads and peaceful bridges over slow-moving creeks.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Go slow—this road is narrow and ideal for a peaceful, slow-paced experience.
Foodie Stops to Enjoy Along the Drive
1. Cartwright’s Ranch House
A hearty diner just off the square, Cartwright’s is the place for chicken fried steak, big breakfasts, and classic Southern comfort food.
Address: 111 N Elm St, Denton, TX 76201
Hours: 7 AM – 3 PM
Approx Cost: $10–$15
Famous For: Texas-sized plates and a cozy, no-fuss vibe.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Go early to grab a booth by the window before your scenic drive.
2. Marty B’s
Just 20 minutes from Denton, this rustic-modern BBQ spot in Bartonville offers brisket, views, and fire pits for a perfect road trip dinner.
Address: 2664 FM 407 E, Bartonville, TX 76226
Hours: 11 AM – 10 PM
Approx Cost: $15–$30
Famous For: Hill Country-style BBQ with live music and rooftop seating.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Time your visit for sunset and catch live music on the back lawn.
3. Miss Angeline’s
A stylish Denton cocktail bar with a cozy patio, craft drinks, and a laid-back vibe—perfect for ending a peaceful drive with a toast.
Address: 125 Hickory St, Denton, TX 76201
Hours: 4 PM – 12 AM
Approx Cost: $10–$18
Famous For: Infused cocktails, vintage décor, and relaxed weekend energy.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Try their signature lavender gin fizz—light, floral, and road trip refreshing.
Where to Stay After a Scenic Day
1. Wildwood Inn
This boutique hotel feels like a romantic escape, tucked among trees with European-style architecture and peaceful rooms.
Address: 2602 Lillian Miller Pkwy, Denton, TX 76210
Hours: Check-in 3 PM, Check-out 11 AM
Approx Cost: $160–$220/night
Famous For: Private balconies, fireplaces, and garden surroundings.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Book the garden view rooms for a tranquil morning coffee spot.
2. The Brownlow House
Step into history at this charming B&B located just blocks from the square. Perfect for couples or solo travelers seeking peace and character.
Address: 425 W Oak St, Denton, TX 76201
Hours: Check-in 3 PM, Check-out 11 AM
Approx Cost: $130–$180/night
Famous For: Cozy comfort, themed rooms, and warm local hospitality.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Ask about their seasonal tea service or porch breakfast offerings.
3. Fairfield Inn & Suites Denton
A modern and reliable hotel stay, with quick access to I-35 and parking right outside your room—ideal for road trippers.
Address: 2900 W University Dr, Denton, TX 76201
Hours: Check-in 3 PM, Check-out 11 AM
Approx Cost: $110–$150/night
Famous For: Clean, convenient, and great for overnight road trippers.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Request a quiet room away from the highway side for the best sleep.
Packing Tips for a Relaxing Scenic Road Trip
- Sunglasses and wide-brim hat for sun-drenched roads
- Cooler with drinks and snacks to avoid extra stops
- Printed maps or downloaded GPS routes for country roads
- Phone mount and playlist for music on the move
- Portable charger and camera for capturing views
- Blanket or mat for impromptu picnics or sunset watching
- Water bottles and bug spray for outdoor stops
- Comfortable shoes for park walks and quick hikes
- Light jacket or shawl for breezy evenings
- Notebook or journal for capturing thoughts and memories
Local Tips & Seasonal Advice
- Spring and fall offer the best views with wildflowers or changing leaves
- Check road conditions after rain—some scenic routes have low-water crossings
- Weekdays are less busy on scenic routes—ideal for peace and photos
- Fuel up before you leave town—few gas stations on rural loops
- Bring cash or small bills for local stands or produce markets
- Sunrise and sunset are the best times for magical lighting and minimal traffic
- Check for weekend events or music nights if looping back to Denton
- Always carry water—rural roads may not have stops for long stretches
Conclusion
A scenic road trip around Denton is more than just a drive—it’s a journey into Texas charm, calm, and connection. From winding country roads to peaceful lake views and charming small towns, every mile offers something worth slowing down for.
Whether you’re escaping the hustle, bonding with a partner, or just looking for beautiful backroads to cruise, Denton’s scenic routes deliver an experience that’s both grounding and inspiring. So hop in the car, turn up the music, and let the open road around Denton reset your soul.
