Overall Route Rating
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4.6 out of 5 Rider Rating 4.6
6 Reviews

Motorcycle Route Author

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By Jerry (34 McR Points) on Oct 30, 2014

Rider Reviews

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Jknight
4 McR Points
November 1, 2020
Amazing ride. I recommend 118 from Alpine, to Ft…
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FJRFreak
43 McR Points
March 16, 2015
This ride as listed has two different…
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Written Directions

From the historic town of Fort Davis, Texas, take hwy 118 to the McDonald Observatory, about ten miles. That section is the prettiest scenery on this road. Turn around and head back to Fort Davis. Head North on Hwy 17 for about 20 miles. Breathtaking scenery is along this road.

Scenery

These roads are in the middle of the beautiful Davis Mountains about 35 miles off Interstate 10 in West Central Texas. This is a Horseshoe route to allow for viewing the mountains coming and going and avoiding the flat prairies to the North. The town of Fort Davis has nice accommodations, motels, restaurants and gas, along with a Snake and Reptile museum. The colors of the Mountain cliffs range from orange to maroon to rainbow. Words really can't describe the ride through these Mountains. And it offers some of the coolest weather in Texas during the Summer.

Drive Enjoyment

The roads have a few twisties but mainly nice curves to enjoy the changing landscaape. Pavement is very smooth for back country roads. There are some steep grades but its mostly through the Canyons.

Tourism Opportunities

The number one attraction on this route is the McDonald Observatory. Lots of Campsites in the Fort Davis State Park along with Bar-B-Q pits for a day visit. The town of Fort Davis has many Historic sites along with historic buildings turned into restaurants. My favorite place was a small Snakes and Reptiles museum on the outskirts of town.

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Motohead71
January 25, 2021
188 McR Points
Motorcycle Type : Cruiser
The first time I did this I was 5 on the back of Dad’s Goldwing. It’s still an awesome run.
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a2rbnud
April 29, 2021
60 McR Points
Motorcycle Type : Touring
Add Hwy166 to Hwy118 for the Fort Davis Loop. It's around 75 miles that gains and loses about 4200 feet in elevation. It's mountains and low desert combined with low water river crossings. Watch for cattle, turkeys, bighorn sheep, bobcats, coyotes, and numerous other wild life. Very few cars and plenty of gorgeous rest stops.
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75220CL
October 15, 2015
0 McR Points
Motorcycle Type : Cruiser
I only rode the 'tamer' half of this route, SH 17 from Toyahvale (Balmorhea) to Fort Davis and back. This is a beautiful ride. Long sweeping curves for the most part as you head into the Wild Rose Valley, then a bit steeper and tighter turns as you get into the Davis Mountains.

I highly recommend this ride if you're in the area. I need to do the other half up to McDonald Observator next time.
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