When cooler mornings roll into Central Texas, the Hill Country rewards drivers with maples, oaks, and cypress glowing rust and gold. The most photogenic loop from Austin traces Wimberley and Blanco via the ridge of Devil’s Backbone. First, secure your AUS airport car rental. If you prefer British phrasing, we’ve also got car hire in the same fleet and price range.
Classic loop: Wimberley → Devil’s Backbone → Blanco
Head south on Ranch Road 12 to Wimberley for coffee and a quick stroll around the Square. Continue west to Ranch Road 32 (the “Devil’s Backbone”), a high, winding ridge with sweeping overlooks between Wimberley and Blanco. Drop into Blanco for the courthouse square and riverside park before returning to Austin via US‑281/290. Plan 3–5 leisurely hours with photo stops, or stretch it to a full day with lunch in town.
When to go for color
Central Texas foliage typically builds from the end of October and peaks through November, with the brightest shades often around Thanksgiving. Crisp mornings after a dry front can deliver vivid views, while warm spells may delay color a week or two. Aim for mid‑week departures to avoid weekend crowding at popular overlooks.
Best pullouts & etiquette
- Use signed overlooks along RR‑32; avoid stopping on blind curves.
- Mind ranch gates and private drives—take photos from public pullouts only.
- Pack out snacks and bottles; Hill Country winds carry litter fast.
What to drive
- Couples: a nimble compact makes town parking a breeze.
- Families & groups: choose a comfortable minivan.
- Photographers: an SUV rental in Austin gives cargo height for tripods and packs.
Safety & comfort
- Fuel up before leaving Austin; rural stations can close early.
- Bring layers—mornings can be cool even when afternoons are warm.
- Watch for deer at dusk and keep headlights on RR‑32.
- Share the road with cyclists and motorcyclists who favor the ridge.
Plan with flexibility
Book with Hola Car Rentals for Free Cancellation up to 48 hours before pick‑up and upgrade to All‑Inclusive+ coverage for maximum peace of mind. Compare trusted partners—Enterprise Austin, Hertz Austin, and Budget Austin—and pick the vehicle that fits your group.
Ready to chase color? Lock in your dates with Hola Car Rentals and enjoy an easy, scenic loop from Austin.
Alternate stops and add‑ons
- Wimberley’s shaded creek parks and boutique shops for a slow morning.
- Blanco’s riverside park for a picnic before the final stretch to Austin.
- Optional detour to a Hill Country overlook for sunset if skies are clear.
Photo tips
- Shoot early and late; midday sun flattens the reds and golds.
- Carry a microfiber cloth—windblown dust lands on lenses quickly.
- Use the car as a windbreak for tripod shots on ridge pullouts.
Flexible vehicles, simple pricing
Hola Car Rentals shows the full price at checkout with optional All‑Inclusive+ coverage. Traveling as a crew? Reserve a roomy minivan in Austin or compare Enterprise and Budget partners to match your route.
Suggested timeline
- 09:00 Leave AUS area with coffee and snacks.
- 10:15 Wimberley Square stop; browse and stretch.
- 11:15 Drive RR‑32, pausing at signed overlooks for photos.
- 12:30 Lunch in Blanco; short riverside walk.
- 14:00 Optional detour for one more overlook; start return drive.
- 16:00 Back in Austin before evening traffic.
Traveling with kids?
Plan extra snack breaks and keep layers handy—mornings on the ridge can be breezy. Mark playgrounds in both towns as backup stops. If nap time lines up with the ridge section, the winding road often lulls little ones to sleep.
