There’s something special about setting out on roads you haven’t yet traveled, and our recent drive to Pedernales Falls State Park proved to be a day full of beauty, small-town charm, and unexpected detours worth taking.
Pedernales Falls State Park – Johnson City – Blanco – Fischer Drive
We began our adventure by turning right from the Inn onto Fischer Store Road and making our way to the tiny town of Fischer. From there, we headed down Ranch Road 32 toward Blanco. The day was already shaping up wonderfully, especially when we stopped for lunch at the Red Bud Café across from Blanco’s old courthouse. Afterwards, we browsed a few antique shops before making our way over to the Deutsch Apple Bakery, where we couldn’t resist a stunning, golden apple pie that seemed almost too pretty to eat.
From Blanco, Highway 281 guided us north toward Johnson City. On the way, curiosity brought us onto McCall Creek Road, a route we’d never taken before. It turned out to be one of our favorite parts of the drive. Along the tree-lined road, we crossed the sparkling Pedernales River, spotted abundant wildlife, admired a stone farmhouse rich with history, and passed by rolling pastures dotted with grazing cattle. It was a detour well worth taking.
When we reached Johnson City via Highway 290, we decided to pause again. While Pecan Street Pub would have made a tempting lunch stop if we hadn’t already eaten, coffee at Johnson City Coffee Company was just right. We spent some time browsing through antique shops and boutiques, and I discovered a new favorite: Grace & Gratitude, a charming gift shop across from Old Annex Market, where I found beautifully made bath products and lotions.
After wandering the downtown square, we continued east on Johnson Road (2766) and turned onto Park Road 6026, leading straight into Pedernales Falls State Park. The park was beautiful, as always. We drove through slowly, hoping to spot wildlife, then made our way to the swimming area. Though the park offers several inviting walking trails, the late-afternoon warmth convinced us to save our hike for another, cooler day.
As the sun began to dip lower, our journey carried us south on FM 3232, before turning back onto Highway 290 and then FM 165 in Henley. At the corner of 165 and 2325, the big blue barn of Arnosky Family Farm caught our eye, and we stopped to pick up some vibrant fresh flowers. From there, FM 2325 led us back to Fischer Store Road, and finally, full circle, we returned to the Inn.
Our adventure ended just as perfectly as it had begun: with two generous slices of that picture-perfect apple pie from earlier in the day. Sweet, flaky, and filled with warm spiced fruit, it was the ultimate ending to a scenic Texas Hill Country road trip.
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Tips for Travelers
- Plan for all-day exploring: Wear sturdy shoes, bring plenty of water, and pack sunscreen, as Texas weather is unpredictable and trails may have limited shade.
- Arrive early at bakeries for the best pastry selection—popular items sell out quickly.
- Reservations for Pedernales Falls State Park are recommended, both for day passes and camping sites.
- Watch for flash flood warnings as river conditions can change suddenly in the Hill Country—never swim if the water rises or turns muddy.
- Pets are welcome on most trails; leashes are required
