Texas Parks & Wildlife’s Outdoor Magazine has unveiled the first city in its “top ten best” countdown of the state’s best outdoor towns that are perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
Llano, Texas, known as the “Deer Capital of Texas,” is the 10th-best “outdoor town” in the Lone Star State, according to the magazine. The state-run magazine is unveiling a new city in the top 10 monthly, and it started with Llano for February.
The outlet finalized its ranking by analyzing data, interviewing experts and scouring through travel site ratings. The scope of the search was limited to towns with a population of 50,000 or less, knocking major cities like Austin and San Antonio out of the running. While the methodology isn’t an exact science, the magazine says the towns featured on this year’s list “have got that sauce” – a winning mix of great vibes, adventurous spirit, and easy access to public lands.
Storefronts, shops, bars and restaurants in main street of the city Llano, Llano County, Texas, United States. (Arterra/Arterra/Universal Images Group v)
Known for its eclectic shops, granite hills, location on the Llano River, the day-trip-worthy town is just 75 miles northwest of Austin and 108 miles north of San Antonio. It’s also perfect for hiking, gravel biking, camping, fishing, hunting and swimming, according to the article.
Smoothies from Juice on the Corner in Llano, Texas. (Mia Valdez/MySA)
“The town of about 3,000 people serves as an unassuming launch pad for outdoor enthusiasts to an abundance of activities,” the article reads.
The trendy Hill Country town has a pretty iconic and historic town square, with plenty of shopping, food and sightseeing to draw you in. But it’s the natural scenery that will keep you coming back for more. According to the article, “Llano comes in No. 10 on our list of top outdoor towns because of its proximity to multiple state parks, the scenic river that runs through town and the ample opportunities for multiple adventures …”
The “premier outdoor destination” offers plenty of attractions, from hiking at the nearby Enchanted Rock State Natural Area’s pink dome, where the state is actively expanding its trail system in Llano County, to swimming in the beautiful, crystal-blue waters of the Llano River, and camping at Inks Lake State Park before hopping on a mountain bike to experience some of the area’s “famous gravel riding” at Reveille Peak Ranch.
The Llano River in Badu Park. (Mia Valdez/MySA)
This article originally published at ‘Premier outdoor destination’ in Texas is a short drive from San Antonio.