BACK TO TEXAS HILL COUNTRY PORTAL

MOTORCYCLE/BIKER FRIENDLY PLACES & EVENTS IN THE TEXAS HILL COUNTRY

BACKGROUND:

HILL COUNTRY PORTAL: Comprehensive database of information on the Texas Hill Country: Click: www.HillCountryPortal.com and Hill Country Tourism

HILL COUNTRY AREA DEFINITION & MAP:  Link (Hill Country Sun), Click on Map (note, click on map image to enlarge or reduce size).  Also click another Map

The Texas Hill Country is west of Austin and the north of San Antonio, and sits on the Edwards Plateau and the Balcones Escarpment, with the perimeter loosely defined as the area bounded by Interstate 35 on the east, Texas Highway 29 on the north, US Highway 90 to the south, and US Highway 83 on the west.

TEXAS COUNTY MAPS (TXDOT Maps via UT Library):  Click Maps

TEXAS ROAD CONDITIONS:  Click Roads

LOCAL BIKES FOR SALE: Click For Sale

RIDING COMMENTS: 

GAS: There are virtually no gas stations between towns in the Hill Country.  There are few places to stop for a cold beverage and even fewer have anything to eat or a public restroom.  Plan accordingly. 

DEER: Deer will run at you and in front of you. Deer are amazingly fast, and will change direction toward you before you can say "Oh, sh..". 

CATTLE: Some back roads have "Open Range" or "Loose Cattle", meaning that cattle and goats are loose on the road.  Big longhorns and dairy cattle are also amazingly fast, and when spooked can come into your path quickly.

CATTLE GUARDS: May back roads have cattle guards embedded in the road surface, and while most are pretty smooth, a few will jar your bones.  Some riders ease up in their seats crossing these cattle guards.

LOW WATER CROSSINGS: There are many dips in the roads. Many drain water from the fields under the road dips, as well as OVER the road.  Can be slippery and very wet. Often no warning.

FALLING ROCK: Believe the signs. You don't want to hit rock on the road, or be hit by rock slides. 

HAIRPIN TURNS: In most cases there will be a sign to alert you. Rarely not. Be safe and believe the posted speed on the turns. Watch for blind S-curves.

SQUARE 90 DEGREE TURNS: On very rural back country roads, there are many absolutely sharp turns that follow property lines.  Often without warning signs.  Sometimes with drainage water on the road.  Look out!

ON-COMING VEHICLES OUTSIDE THEIR LANE: Be especially alert for on-coming vehicles reaching into your lane, especially on the tight turns where there is little room to react.  Day-dreaming tourists, big trucks, farm equipment, and yes, other bikers.  Not the best way to meet new folks!

BIKER FRIENDLY PLACES BY CITY/TOWN - - NORTH OF HWY 290:

ROUND MOUNTAIN (North of Johnson City on Hwy 281 & FM 962): Gas, food.

BERKLY'S TRAVEL CENTER: (830) 825-3432; 10541 N. US Hwy 281, Round Mountain, TX 78663. Gas/convenience store on main highway. Beer, snacks.

The Real New Orleans Style Restaurant: Hwy 281 at The Southwest Center. 10541-B Hwy 281 N. 830-825-3600

CYPRESS MILL (West of Round Mountain on FM 962):

MARBLE FALLS (North of Johnson City on Hwy 281 & Hwy 1431): Lots of restaurants, B&B's, gas stations, and fun activities. www.MarbleFalls.org

Blue Bonnet Cafe: 830-693-2344; 211 Hwy 281, Marble Falls, TX. Hours: Mon-Thu 6a-8p, Fri-Sat 6a-9p, Sun 6a-1:45p. Owners: John & Belinda Kemper

BURNET (North of Llano on Hwy 281 & hwy 29): Lots of restaurants, B&B's, gas stations, and fun activities. www.burnetchamber.org

Inks Lake State Park:

DOSS:

Doss Country Store: 830-669-2160; 14394 N Ranch Rd 783, Doss. Gas, burgers, general store, live music sometimes.

LLANO (North of Fredericksburg on Hwy 16, Hwy 29 & Hwy 71): Lots of restaurants, B&B's, gas stations, and fun activities. www.llanochamber.org

Coopers BBQ: 877-533-5553. On West Hwy 29/71.Some of the best BBQ around.  Cold bottled beer. www.coopersbbq.com

South Llano State Park:

LAKE BUCHANAN AREA: www.buchanan-inks.com. 512-793-2803. E-mail: info@buchanan-inks.com

CANYON OF THE EAGLES: www.canyonoftheeagles.com

MASON (Northwest of Llano on Hwy 87 & Hwy 29): Lots of restaurants, B&B's, gas stations, and fun activities.  www.masontx.com  www.masontxcoc.com, masontexas@verizon.net

Cooper's BBQ: Hwy 87, just south of town.

Old Peanut Mill Steakhouse: just north of town, huge bar, full menu, draft beer, big outdoor area.

Santos Taqueria: On Hwy 87 the South-east corner of the Square. Excellent Mexican food, beer, winearitas.

BRADY (North of Mason on Hwy 87): Lots of restaurants, B&B's, gas stations.

BIKER FRIENDLY PLACES BY CITY/TOWN - - NORTH OF I-10 & ON OR SOUTH OF HWY 290:

DRIPPING SPRINGS (along Hwy 290): Lots of restaurants, B&B's, gas stations

Canyon Grill Ice House: 3799 Hwy 290 West, Dripping Springs, TX.  512-858-7100.  Outdoor covered patio, beer, entertainment, great food from menu.  www.canyongrillicehouse.com

Riley's Bar-B-Que: (512) 858-9493; 1111 Hwy. 290 West, Dripping Springs, TX 78620, http://rileysbarbq.com

DRIFTWOOD (Southeast of Dripping Springs on Hwy 150, 1826 & 967):

Salt Lick: BBQ, beer. www.saltlickbbq.com. Open daily 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Reservations accepted, bring your own cooler. Cash only (ATM available). 512-858-4959 restaurant, 512-894-3117 office for reservations, directions.

WIMBERLEY (South of Dripping Springs on Hwy 12): Lots of restaurants, B&B's, gas stations, and fun activities. Article: Wimberley

CANYON LAKE (including Sattler & Canyon City):  www.canyonlakechamber.com

JUST EAST OF JOHNSON CITY (along Hwy 290):

NUTTY BROWN CAFE: 512-301-4648. East of Dripping Springs, on US Hwy 290, south side. Full menu, great food, Sunday brunch 11a-2p, upscale bar (mixed drinks too!), draft beer, huge outdoor arena with tables and music venue.

DALLY'S DOWN UNDER:  On US Hwy 290, north side, just east of the 290/281 intersection. No menu, some munchies, frozen pizza, indoor bar (bottled beer only), often music, well done outdoor area with tables.  Very biker friendly.

ARMADILLO ICEHOUSE: (830) 868-4215; 7792 East US Highway 290, Johnson City, TX 78636. On US Hwy 290, south side, just east of the 290/281 intersection. No menu, some munchies, frozen pizza, indoor bar (bottled beer only), often music, outdoor deck area with tables.  Very biker friendly. www.armadilloicehouse.com

Lo-Life Motorsports: 830-868-2403, Cell: 512-745-9399. 102 Ridgeview, Johnson City, TX (2.5 miles south of FM2766 on FM 3232). Mon-Fri: anytime. Saturday: sometime. Sunday: riding time. Service, repair, parts, accessories, routine and emergency pick-up/deliver of bikes. www.LoLifeMotorsports.com. Owner: Jim Cook

FRIDAY'S GENERAL STORE (SHELL):  (830) 868-9014; 7678 East US Highway 290, Johnson City, TX 78636. Gas/convenience store on main highway.

ALBERT (On FM 1632 South of Stonewall & Hwy 290): Besides the Ice house, there is nothing else in Albert, no gas, rarely food, beer only when the Ice House is open on weekends.

ALBERT TEXAS ICE HOUSE: (830) 644-2042; 5435 S. Ranch Road 1623, Stonewall, Texas 78671, but it is really in Albert TX.  Good Songs, Cold Beer, Good Friends, and Tall Tales.  An unusually beautiful setting with centuries old massive oak trees, great entertainment, for family fun and the coldest beer in Texas (they say). Bottled and draft beer, no food unless special outdoor cooking event. Open weekends only. Web:  www.alberttexas.com. This place is for sale.  If you need contact info, call the webmaster shown below.

JOHNSON CITY (at intersection of Hwy 290 & Hwy 281, north of Blanco):

BUDDY'S AT THE FEED MILL RESTAURANT & TAVERN: (830) 868-9252 and 1-888-868-9252; 104 S. Nugent, Johnson City, TX 78636, just south of Hwy 290, at the Old Feed Mill.  Restaurant and tavern. Bottled & draft beer, entertainment, outdoor seating and cellar tavern. Owners: David & Rhonda Paquette.  Email: info@buddysatthefeedmill.com.  Web: www.buddysatthefeedmill.com

FRIENDLY BAR BISTRO: (830) 868-2182; 106 Nugent, Johnson City TX, 78636.  Located near the Courthouse Square, this lovely bistro features Texas wines, local micro-brewed draft beer, easy listening music and live entertainment in a truly relaxing fashion.  Food menu. We are Friendly friendly!  Owners Tom & Cindy Talcott.  Email: tom@friendlybarbistro.com.  Web: www.friendlybarbistro.com.  Biker Friendly.  Picker Music on Sundays.

TEXAS 290 DINER: (830) 868-2424; 502 West Main Street, Johnson City, TX 78636. Open Mon-Sat 11a-3p.  Great food, no beer, no entertainment.

HILL COUNTRY CUPBOARD: (830) 868-4625; 101 South US Highway 281, Johnson City, TX 78636. Home cooking, bottled beer, no entertainment. www.hillcountrycupboard.com

Pedernales Falls State Park: www.tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/findadest/parks/pedernales_falls

WILLOW CITY (North of Fredericksburg just off Hwy 16):

HARRY'S ON THE LOOP: (830) 685-3553; 2732 RR 1323, Willow City, TX 78675. Located 13 miles N. of Fredericksburg TX. Famous BBQ, bottled & draft beer, classic biker stop. Owner: Harry Hickman.

KNOT IN THE LOOP SALOON: (830) 685-3591; RR 1323 in Eckert, TX at Hwy 16 intersection, located 13 miles N. of Fredericksburg TX. Wellspring of adventure, stories & adventure. Kitchen food, beer, wine. Gateway to Willow City. Owners: Wayne & Robin Nichols.  Email: knotintheloop@aol.com. Web: www.willowcitytexas.com. Open: Thu-Sat, noon-late.

STONEWALL (Along Hwy 290 west of Johnson City): www.stonewalltexas.com

LINDIG RESTAURANT: (830) 644-2749. POB 94, Stonewall, TX 78671. 

LINDIG'S CAFE & STORE: 830-644-2749; 14857 Hwy 290, Stonewall, TX 78671. Gas/convenience store and cafe on main highway. Full kitchen menu, great Mexican food, bottled beer.

STONEWALL SALOON & DANCE HALL: (830) 644-2277; 14373 US Hwy 290 E, Stonewall, TX 78671. Beer, pool tables, no food. Live entertainment.

Luckenbach (on Luckenbach Road, southeast of Fredericksburg):

Luckenbach: (830) 997-3224. 1-888-311-8990; 412 Luckenbach Town Loop, Stonewall, TX 78624. The history of Luckenbach, along with events that are happening and their favorite pickers, are included on their web site, including Willie, Waylon, and many more. Everybody's somebody in Luckenbach". Web: www.luckenbachtexas.com. Voted #2 of Favorite Small Towns, by RTM.

Luckenbach General Store: Luckenbach, TX. Voted #1 of Best Old-Fashioned General Stores, by RTM.

Full Moon Inn & Grill: 800-997-1124.3234 Luickenbach Rd, Luckenbach, TX.  www.fullmooninn.com.  B&B, Facilities with catering to bike riders. Breakfast.

BLANCO (on Hwy 281, south of Johnson City): Lots of restaurants, B&B's, gas stations. "Lavender Capital of Texas".

Blanco Ice House: (830) 833-2940; 1016 Main Street, Blanco, TX 78606

Blanco Riverside Bar: (830) 833-008; 18 Main Street, Blanco, TX 78606. Next to Blanco State Park. Adjacent to Cilantro's Restaurant. Family entertainment, Live entertainment and dance floor. Come enjoy the beautiful Blanco Riverside scenery.

Casanova's Patio Cafe & Smokehouse: (830) 833-2139; 115 Main Street, Blanco, TX 78606-5348

Cilantro's Mexican Restaurant: (830) 833-5910; 18 Main Street, Blanco TX 78606. The restaurant has moved to the former Rio Blanco Restaurant building next to Blanco State Park. Owners: Gaspar Enriquez, Chef, and wife Margarita.  Ample parking, deck seating, view the river and park, and enjoy good Mexican food.

Riley's Bar-B-Que: (830) 833-4166; 318 4th Street, Blanco, TX 78606

Pop A Top Again: (830) 833-5098; 4662 S US Highway 281, Blanco, TX 78606-5206

Blanco Bowling Club Cafe: (830) 833-4416; 310 4th Street, POB 401, Blanco, TX 78606. Mon-Fri: 6:30p-10p; Sat: 6:30p-9p; Sun: 6:30p-2p. An authentic 1940's diner.

SPRING BRANCH (Along Hwy 281, south of Blanco):

Antler Cafe: (830) 980-4464; 4000 US Highway 281 N, Spring Branch, TX 78070-6813. Great, affordable food, and shaded outdoor seating.

Honey Creek Cafe & Saloon: (830) 438-3190; 25089 State Highway 46 W, Spring Branch, TX 78070

Shade Tree Saloon & Grill: (830) 885-5550; 13430 Hwy 281 North, Spring Branch, TX. Burgers, sandwiches & more. M-F daily specials. Live Entertainment in big outdoor venue. Call for entertainment schedule or visit www.theshadetreesaloonandgrill.com 

Texas Hill Country Deli & Grill: (830) 980-7822; 20450 State Highway 46 W, Spring Branch, TX 78070-6130

TWIN SISTERS  (Along Hwy 281, south of Blanco): (No gas).

Twin Sisters Dance Hall: Hwy 281, Twin Sisters, TX

SISTERDALE: (No gas).

Sisterdale Road House: 830-324-6767; 1211 FM 1376, Sisterdale, TX 78006. Beer, limited snack food, outdoor tables, nice view, entertainment occasionally. www.sisterdaleroadhouse.com. Home of live Texas Music, Cold Drinks, Good Friends and Fun. We are interested in being a biker rally point or route stop. Contact: Marie Nipp, Owner

KENDALIA: (No gas).

Kendalia Halle:  Kick up your heels at a 100 year old dance hall close to home!  www.kendaliahalle.com.  830-833-4902. Voted best wood floor in Texas. Available for dances, wedding and other events.  Located 7 miles west of Hwy 281 on 473 @ 3351.

FREDERICKSBURG (Along Hwy 290, west of Johnson City):  www.fredericksburg-texas.com. Reservation service: www.FBGlodging.com.  Lots of restaurants, B&B's, gas stations, and fun activities. Voted #3 of Favorite Small Towns, by RTM.

Alamo Springs Cafe: 830-990-8004; Located just south of Grapetown, on Alamo Rd, in the "Old Tunnel Wildlife Management Area" southeast of Fredericksburg. Burgers, beer, porch. Open 11a-9p daily, closed Tue, Live music on Sat nights.

Auslanger's Biergarten: 830-997-7714; 323 East Main Street, Fredericksburg, On Hwy 290 downtown. Great cold draft beer and German food. www.theauslander.com

Allision's Specialty Foods: 230 East Main, Frediericksburg, TX. 830-990-5881. www.allisonsspecialtyfoods.com

Enchanted Rock State Park: www.tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/findadest/parks/enchanted_rock

Hilltop Cafe: 830-997-8922.  "Inconveniently located 10 miles north of Fredericksburg on Hwy 87". www.hilltopcafe.com; hilltopinfo@hilltopcafe.com. Excellent food, occasional live entertainment, draft beer. This is a converted old-time garage filled with antiques and interesting memorabilia.  Not a biker bar per se, it is slightly up-scale on food and pricing, but a great stop along 87 for a cold draft beer. Owners: Johnny & Brenda Nicholas

The Hog Stop Inn: 10207 East US Hwy 290, Fredericksburg, TX 78624. 888-251-2137. 830-997-6166. Fax 830-997-2137. Get Directions. Email: info@thehogstopinn.com.  www.thehogstopinn.com. Located 10  miles east of Fredericksburg and 4 mils north of Luckenbach. Cabin for rent, with covered bike parking.

Hondo's: 312 West Main Street, Fredericksburg, TX. 830-997-1633. www.hondosonmain.com

National War of the Pacific Museum: www.nimitz-museum.org

HARPER: (Along Hwy 290, west of Fredericksburg): 2 gas/convenience stations, a cafe and not much else.

Longhorn Cafe: 830-864-4328. 23624 Hwy 290, Harper, TX 78631. Breakfast, lunch, dinner.  Great menu food. No Beer. BYOB. Excellent. Open: Every day 7a-2p, Fri til 8p with band playing from 6-8p. Owners: Gene & Gloria.

BIKER FRIENDLY PLACES BY CITY/TOWN - - ON I-35:

SAN MARCOS: Chamber: 888-200-5620. www.sanmarcoscharms.com

GRUENE: www.gruenetexas.com

Gruene Hall: 1601 Hunter Rd, Gruene. 830-606-1281. www.gruenehall.com

NEW BRAUNFELS: www.nbcham.org

River Road Ice House: 1791 Huesco Springs Rd, New Braunfels, TX. 830-626-1335. www.riverroadicehouse.com

Tavern in the Gruene: 830 Greune Rd, Gruene, TX. 830-608-0438. www.taverninthegruene.com

BIKER FRIENDLY PLACES BY CITY/TOWN - - ON I-10:

BOERNE: Lots of restaurants, B&B's, gas stations, and fun activities.

Paradise Bar & Grill: 830-249-0301; 1032 N. Main, Boerne, Live Oak Shopping Center. 15 draft beers. Big screen TV. Burgers, pool.

Enchanted Springs Ranch: Old western style ranch on 86 acres, with celebrations, re-enactments of "The Old West".

COMFORT: Lots of restaurants, B&B's, gas stations, and fun activities. www.comfortchamberofcommerce.com. Email: info@comfort-texas.com. Article: Comfort

The Hen House Cafe: 5B Hwy 87, Comfort, TX.  830-995-5793. Beer & wine, lunch, live music every Fri & Sat night.  Fri & Sat 5p-9p.  Lunch Mon-Sat, 11a-2:30p.

Hen Haus Cafe: Hwy 87, Comfort, TX.  830-995-5793.

KERRVILLE: Lots of restaurants, B&B's, gas stations, and fun activities. www.KerrvilleTexasCVB.com.

Kerrville-Schreiner Park: Kerrville

SEGOVIA:

Econo-Lodge: 800-768-1872; 311 S. Segovia Access Rd., free breakfast.  www.econolodgesegovia.com

Segovoa Truck Stop:  Good food.

JUNCTION:

BIKER FRIENDLY PLACES BY CITY/TOWN - - SOUTH OF I-10:

CENTER POINT:

INGRAM:

HUNT:

Hunt General Store: Hunt, TX.  Voted #7 of Best Old-Fashioned General Stores, by RTM.

Stonehenge II: A two-thirds scale replica of the original Stonehenge guarded by two brooding, 13-foot tall replicas of Easter Island maoi (head statues).

MEDINA (On Hwy 16 & 337, south of Kerrville): "Apple Capital of Texas".

Pump House Grill: 830-589-3200. Lunch and dinner. Open Wed-Sat 11a-8p., Sun 12-6p. Cafe and bakery.

Keese's BBQ: 830-589-7474. Breakfast. Biker friendly.

Koyote Ranch: 830-589-4695, 800-225-0991;  23233 Hwy 16 North, Medina, TX 78028. www.koyoteranch.com. RV sites, wireless internet, furnished cottages. This is a multi-mode facility, biker friendly, with cabins, and lots to do. Great base camp. On Hwy 16 north of Bandera.

Koyote Mercantile: Located at Koyote Ranch. Great food, music, biergarten and lots of fun. All you can eat catfish on Fri night.

Love Creek Orchards' Cider Mill & Country Store: 830-589-2588, 800-449-0882. Hwy 16, Medina, TX  www.lovecreekorchards.com

BANDERA (On Hwy 16 & 173): Lots of restaurants, B&B's, gas stations, and fun activities. "Cowboy Capital of Texas". www.BanderaCowboyCapital.com. www.celebratebandera.com. Article: Bandera

11th Street Cowboy Bar: 307 830-796-4849. 11th Street, Bandera, TX. The Cowboy Bar is a unique cross between a neighborhood bar and the best country and western night club around. www.11thstreetcowboybar.com

Blue Gene's Cowboy Sports Bar: (830) 796-7144; 807 Main Street, Bandera, TX.  www.bluegenesbandera.com. Weekend live entertainment.

OST Restaurant: 830-796-3836. 305 Main Street, Bandera, TX 78003. Breakfast anytime, daily buffet specializing in Mexican food and chicken fried steak. Salad bar.  Gwen & Rick James, Owners

Arkey Blues:

Brick's River Cafe: 830-460-3200; 1205 Main, Bandera, TX 78006. On Medina River, Weekend breakfast buffet. Full menu, beer, wine. Behind the River Oaks Inn.

Antler Cabins: 143 Timber Lane, Bandera, TX 78003, www.BanderaCabin.com. Tim & Trina Word, Home: 830-535-4412, Cell: 210-415-4384. Two new cabins on private acreage just outside of town. Fully equipped. Rates range from $65-99/night.

Twin Elm Guest Ranch: 830-796-3628; 888-567-3049. www.twinelmranch.com. Dude ranch, horseback riding, overlooking Median River and Indian Creek.

Long Horn Saloon: 1307 Main Street, Bandera, TX. 830-796-3600. www.longhornsaloonbandera.com

Bandera Saloon: 402 Main Street, Bandera, TX. 830-796-3699. www.banderasaloon.com

Bandera Downs: 830-460-1917; 2303 Hwy 16 S., Bandera, TX. www.banderadowns.com

River Front Motel: 830-460-3690. 800-870-5671.  Main Street at River Bridge, Bandera, TX 78003. www.TheRiverFrontMotel.com

Silver Spur Guest Ranch: 9266 Bandera Creek Rd, Bandera, TX. 830-796-3037. info@silverspur-ranch.com; www.silverspur-ranch.com/rates.asp 

LEAKEY (At Hwy 83 and Hwy 337 Intersection): Lots of restaurants, B&B's, gas stations, and fun activities. According to some, "THE motorcycling Mecca of Texas" and "The Swiss Alps of Texas".
www.leakey-tx.com, Email: info@leakey-tx.com, www.friocanyonchamber.com. Frio Canyon Chamber of Commerce: http://friocanyonchamber.com for information on local events, businesses and things to do in the Frio Canyon. Fun center: www.funrivers.com.  Article: Leakey.   Voted #1 of Favorite Small Towns, by RTM.

D'Rose Inn & Cabins: 527 S. US Hwy 83, Leakey TX 78873, 830-232-5246. www.droseinn.com. E-mail: drdeb@droseinn.com. Where peace and tranquility are reality. Lodging for motorcyclists and bicyclists only! You must be riding or have your bike on a trailer. Swimming pool, covered pavilion, picnic tables, BBQ grills. The ultimate in biker friendliness. Voted #1 in Motorcycle Trip Lodging by Ride Texas Magazine (2006 Best In Texas Rider's Choice Award). Owner/Innkeeper: Deb Rose, PhD.

Frio Canyon Motorcycle Stop: 830-232-6629. POB 753, RR 337 (1 block west of Hwy 83), Leaky, TX 78873. Providing a comfortable gathering place for motorcycle enthusiasts. Motorcycle clothing, accessories, novelties.  Spectacular views. Thurs-Mon: 10a-6p. Owners: Bob & Robin Albright. bikerstop@hctc.net. www.friocanyonmotorcyclestop.biz. 24 hour Roadside Assistance 866-735-5102.

Bent Rim Grill: at Frio Canyon Motorcycle Stop, above. Burgers, fries, hot dogs, BBQ sandwiches, no beer.

Hill Country Bar-B-Que: 830-232-4488. Hwy 83 downtown Leakey, TX 78873. Breakfast, lunch, dinner. Dine in or take out. Let us do your catering. Owner: Shawna Reme.

Vinny's Italian Restaurant: 830-232-4420.  Hwy 83, Leakey, TX. Voted #4 Ride Texas. Best Italian Cuisine in Texas! Large menu. Open til 9pm on weekends. Pizza, Pasta, Italian Specialties. You can BYOB. Mon-Thurs 11-2, Fri & Sat 11-9. www.vinnysitalian.com

City Coffee Shop: 830-232-4242; Sunday Gourmet Breakfast, cappuccino and other drinks. Located inside The Bird House (everything for birders). Open 7:30am - 2:30pm. Located on Hwy 83 just south of Hwy 337. www.friocanyonbirdhouse.com

Hometown Market: Meat Market, groceries, deli, Blue Bell ice cream with Old Fashioned Soda fountain, gift shop, Breakfast tacos, burgers & homemade baked goods. Open 7:30am to 6pm. Located on Hwy 83 just north of Hwy 337 and across from the Courthouse. 830-232-5414.

Eagle’s Nest Restaurant: 830-232-6603; US Hwy 83 2 Miles S. of Leakey, Leakey, Texas  78873

Frio Canyon Lodge: 830-232-6800; Hwy 83 in Leakey, TX.  www.friocanyonlodge.com

Frio Canyon Restaurant: 830-232-6810; Hwy 83 in Leakey, TX. This the only place that serves beer and wine.  Full menu. No breakfast.

Mama Cheole's Mexican Restaurant: 830-232-6111. On Hwy 83 in Leakey, TX

Frio Springs Lodges: 888-232-4174; 927 S. Evergreen, Leakey, TX. Just off Hwy 83 in Leakey. www.friosprings.com. Cabins, houses, wireless internet, TV, Pavilion.

Crider's Mercantile: Hwy 83, Leakey. Voted #6 of Best Old-Fashioned General Stores, by RTM.

Camp Live Oak: 830-232-4152. Leakey. www.campliveoak.com. Cabins and motorcycle camping. Voted Top 10 Best Motorcycle Lodging 4 years in a row by RTM.

The Drug Store: 830-232-6221. On the Courthouse Square in Downtown Leakey, Old Fashioned Soda Fountain, Burgers, Philly's served on Home-made bread, Shakes, Ice Cream, Party Trays, Catering & private parties. Email for menu & hours. jasenterprises@jasenterprisesinc.com

Just Bar-B-Q: 830-232-6610; 2747 West Ranch Road 337, (3 miles West of Leakey). Bar-b-cue Restaurant Open Thursday - Monday 11:00 AM to Dusk, Local Delivery

The Hog Pen: 830-279-8408; At corner of US 83 & RR337, Leakey.  Open Tue-Sat, 9-5. Food: boudain, brisket, sausage. Dirty Earl's Squeaky clean car wash.

UTOPIA (Hwy 1050, West of Tarpley, east of Concan/Leakey): Gas, restaurants. www.utopiatexas.com Article: Utopia

Lost Maples Cafe: 830-966-2221. Main Street. Good food, beer.

Joe's Coffee House: 830-966-5656. 655 Main Street. Wi-Fi. Great food, even better coffee. Breakfast, lunch. Open: Mon-Fri: 7a-4p, Sat 8a-4p.

TARPLEY (On Hwy 470, west of Bandera):

Steel Horse Cafe: 830-562-3325. Home-style cooking. Pit smoked BBQ. Bottled beer. Open Thurs-Sun for breakfast and lunch. Owner: Val. Some of the best BBQ the Hill Country has to offer as well as a great biker stop. Special motorcycle parking.  Located on RR 470, 12 miles west of Bandera. Check out this great review from some previous Biker customers.

Tarpley Hotel Guest House: Same number and owners as above. Daily & weekly rentals.

CONCAN (On Hwy 127 & 83, South of Leakey):

BECS Store & RV Park: 830-232-5477; 29015 N. US Hwy 83, Concan, TX 78838. www.becsrv.com. Email: bhoconcan@aol.com.  Owners: Brooks & Cyndee Henderson.

Neal's Lodges & Cafe: 830-232-6118; www.nealslodges.com. On the Frio River. Cabins, RV sites, Restaurant with down-home cooking.

House Pasture Cattle Co. Restaurant: 830-232-6580, River Road, Concan. Variety of entrees, specializing in prime mesquite grilled steaks. Events & parties held in 1800 sq. ft. "Tack Room" accommodating 125 people seated banquet style. www.friocountry.com

Las Colinas de Concan: 830-232-6881. Located corner US 83 & 127. Traditional Mexican food. Open: 11a-8:30p, closed Tue.

Garner State Park: FM 1050 at Hwy 83 South. www.tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/findadest/parks/garner

BARKSDALE:

CAMP WOOD:

BJ's Cafe & Sweet Shop: 830-597-6402. 107 Nueces Street (downtown, corner of Hwy 337 and Hwy 55). BREAKFAST - LUNCH - DINNER. Deli, Daily lunch specials, Steaks, ANGUS BURGERS, Chicken, Grilled Shrimp. Best Sweets in Texas featuring homemade ice cream, sundaes, shakes, pies, cakes, fudge, and brownies. Visit our Bed & Breakfast. Open 6am - 8pm. Closed Tue.  bjcafe@swtexas.net

Holy Smoke BBQ: 830-597-6160. 116 S. Nueces, Camp Wood.

CAMP VERDE:

Camp Verde General Store: 830-634-7722; 285 Camp Verde Road, Camp Verde, TX 78010. Since 1857.  General store plus lunch 11-3p. Daily specials. Open 9-5 daily. Outdoor patio.  Voted #5 of Best Old-Fashioned General Stores, by RTM.

VANDERPOOL (at Hwy 187 & Hwy 337): Article: Vanderpool

Lone Star Motorcycle Museum: 830-966-6103; 36517 FM 187, Vanderpool, TX 78885. Four miles north of Vanderpool. Free admission. More than 50 vintage motorcycles on display, plus lots of motorcycling posters and memorabilia.  www.lonestarmotorcyclemuseum.com

Ace Cafe, at above Lone Star Motorcycle Museum: Owners: Hamburgers, Aussie meat pie, salads. Allan & Debbie Johncock.

Lost Maples State Park: FM 187 West of 337, Vanderpool

Lost Maples General Store: 830-966-3568. Ice, groceries, gas, cold drinks, restrooms.  Voted #10 of Best Old-Fashioned General Stores, by RTM.

TELEGRAPH (On 377 above Rocksprings):

ROCKSPRINGS: (On 377 below Telegraph): Article: Rocksprings; www.rockspringstexas.net

Devil's Sinkhole State Natural Area: www.rockspringstexas.net/devilssinkhole.htm

MOUNTAIN HOME:

Garven Store: 27304 N. Hwy 83, Mountain Home, TX. Located 28 miles north of Leakey on Hwy 83 at Hwy 41 intersection, in Mountain Home (although there is NO town here). Biker Leathers!! Best prices you've ever seen!!. Jackets, vests, caps, gloves, and goggles. Also out of this world BBQ brisket, jerky and dried sausage. Beer and wine available. Restrooms. Gas. Since 1932. One of the very few stops in the middle of nowhere. Visit online or call 830-640-3235. www.garvenstore.com 

Y.O. Ranch Resort Hotel: 2033 Sidney Baker, Kerrville, Texas 78028. (830) 257-4440. Toll Free 1-877-967-3767. Fax (830) 896-8189. yoresort@1859historichotels.com. www.yoresort.com

PIPE CREEK:

Hole In the Wall: Open: Fri-Sun. Behind Silver Saddle Real Estate.

BRACKETTVILLE Article: Brackettville

BIKER FRIENDLY PLACES BY CITY/TOWN - - ALONG HWY 90:

CASTROVILLE:

D'HANIS:

Bill & Rosa's Steakhouse:

SABINAL:

R BBQ:

HONDO:

KNIPPA:

UVALDE: Lots of restaurants, B&B's, gas stations

Lunkers Grill:

OTHER HILL COUNTRY MOTORCYCLE WEB LINKS

Texas Motorcycle Roads Trip Reports: www.motorcycleroads.us/tx.html  A collection of road trip info for 19 routes (each with a map) in the Hill Country, plus many more in other parts of Texas.

Texas Motorcycle Roads Web Links:  www.motorcycleroads.us/resources.html  A helpful listing of local, regional, state and national web sites.

Road & Travel Magazine Article - Biking The Texas Hill Country: www.roadandtravel.com/adventuretravel/bikingtexashillcountry.htm  An interesting travel log of biking the area with lots of web references.  Good reading as a first introduction to biking in this area.

MotorcyclistOnLine's Favorite Rides Series, #5 - Texas Hill Country: www.motorcyclistonline.com/escape/favoriterides/123_0444_getaway/index4.html  A one page summary on riding here.

Motorcycle Roads', Texas Hill Country Twister Report:  http://motorcycleroads.com/routes/SouthWest/TX/TX_4.shtml  Trip via Kerrville, Medina, Bandera

Video Biker's "Riding The Texas Hill Country": www.videobiker.com/MagazineArticles/Ride%20The%20Hill%20Country.htm Good general article on riding in this area, plus a link to purchase their video of the area.

The Three Amigo's Tour: www.hilliard.ws/hc2001/3amigos.htm 3 guys, 3 bikes, 7 days in the Texas Hill Country.  Good article with maps.

Texas Hill Country Motorcycle Riding: www.hillcountryriding.com Local riding information centered around Kerrville.

Lone Star Motorcycle Museum: http://lonestarmotorcyclemuseum.com/index.html Located in Vanderpool, TX in the southern part of the Texas Hill Country. A wonderful collection of machines from around the world dating from the 1910's to modern. The Ace Cafe located at the Museum serves kitchen food.

Motorcycle Events in Texas: www.lets-ride.com/event/texas.htm

Two Wheeled Texans:  www.twtex.com

BIKE REPAIR & ACCESSORY SHOPS:

Alamo Cycle Plex: 210-696-2000. 11900 IH-10 West, San Antonio, TX 78230. www.alamocycleplex.com

Jack's Cycle Service: 830-367-7575; 3370 Junction Hwy, Ingram, TX 78025.  Full service from barhooppers to baggers. HD certified. Accessories, apparel. Jack Rucker, Nathan Adams. Tue-Fri: 9a-6p, Sat 9a-3p.

Lo-Life Motorsports: 830-868-2403, Cell: 512-745-9399. 102 Ridgeview, Johnson City, TX (2.5 miles south of FM2766 on FM 3232). Mon-Fri: anytime. Saturday: sometime. Sunday: riding time. Service, repair, parts, accessories, routine and emergency pick-up/deliver of bikes. www.LoLifeMotorsports.com. Owner: Jim Cook

Destination Cycle: www.destinationcycle.com in Kerrville. 3341A Loop 534 Kerrville, TX 78028. Phone: (830) 896-2453 Fax: (830) 895-2205
Toll Free Phone: (888)-886-3001

Wild Things Motorcycle Accessories: (830) 792-4430; 1208 Sidney Baker S., Kerrville, TX.  www.wildthingsma.com. E-mail: wildthingsma@hotmail.com. We carry parts and accessories for all types of motorcycles, including parts and chrome from Drag Specialties, Custom Chrome, Parts Unlimited, Kuryakyn, Biker's Chocie, Mustang Seats, Martin Bros., and many more. Check out our large selection of apparel and leather from Easyrider and others. Vento dealer. Repair & maintenance. Owners: David & LeAnn Wanex.

Sattler V Twin: 830-899-7900. 7840 FM 2722, Canyon Lake, TX 78132.  We build wicked custom bikes from the ground up or we can even customize your bag of bones. Chrome upgrades, performance modifications, tires, brakes, full service on all types.  Ken Kirkpatrick, Bob Slusser, Robert Johannesson.  www.sattlerv-twin.com; kkcycles@gvtc.com 

Big Mike's Bike Shop: 830-990-2625. 922 East Main, Fredericksburg, TX 78624. Clothing, accessories, and more.  Owner: Billy.  Free motorcycle parking in back all day. 1/2 block from downtown.  Sit on the porch or tables in the back and enjoy a cold one. Open Wed-Sun, 10a-5p.

Custom Cycles: 830-885-5822, Cell: 210-846-1081.  Jimmy Herrera, Owner/technician.

Ximenez Cycle Lube: Cell: 210-663-4628. San Antonio. Specializing in motorcycle maintenance.  1 hour oil change. Owner: Rene Ximenez.

Phantom Rider Choppers: 830-228-4606.  6535 W. Hwy 46, New Braunfels, TX. 6 miles west of Loop 337, on the south side. Harley Davidson & after market. Repair & service.  Dyno Jet Tuning.

Javelina Harley Davidson: 830-755-5202. 29078 IH-10, West Boerne, TX 78006. www.javelinaharley.com

Gruene Harley-Davidson: 830-624-2473. 1288 Loop 337, New Braunfels, TX 78130.  www.grueneharley.com

Action Custom Motorcycle Enterprises (ACME): 325-656-8885; San Angelo, TX

Frosty's Motorcycle Stop: 830-796-7401; 584 S. hwy 16, Bandera, TX.  Leather, helmets, accessories, t-shirts.

Rix Motorcycle Klassix: 210-695-8706; 12602 FM 1560, N. Helotes, TX. Most services while you wait. All makes and models. HD's & Sport bikes.

Alamo BMW: 210-828-5511; 3111 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209. New location at 25600 I-10 West, near Boerne (Exit 550), adding Triumph Motorcycles.

Boerne Texas Cycle Goodies: 830-249-1405; 807 N. Main Street, Boerne, TX. Open Tue-Sun. A cool place to shop, eat, or just hang out.  www.cyclegoodiesofboernetx.com

MOTORCYCLE RENTALS:

Colorado Tourbike Rentals: Austin. 720-231-6349.

Eagle Rider San Antonio: "Specializing in Harley Davidson Rentals"; 9600 IH-35 North at Randolph Blvd (78233). 210/651-1222. Toll Free 1-866-651-1222
email: SAT@eaglerider.com. www.eaglerider.com.

Hill Country Motorcycle Rentals:  We have dual purpose, KLR 650s and BMW 1200 GS. 512-906-2396. Austin, Jolie Kirsten, www.hillcountrymotorcyclerentals.com, hillcountryrentals@gmail.com

Joe Harrison Motorcycle Rentals: www.jhms.com. Honda Goldwings, Harleys, Big Dogs.

Motorcycle Rentals, San Antonio: 

GENERAL MOTORCYCLE ORIENTED VENDOR & SERVICES INFO:

Street Eagle of San Antonio: 903 E. Nakoma, Ste. #102, San Antonio, TX 78216. 210/496-0880. 877-931-7433

Texas Hill Country Ride - A Motorcycle Adventure: www.customflix.com/207901. A DVD for sale featuring a ride in the southern part of the Texas Hill Country.

Riding Texas, The Texas Hill Country Trail: www.hhjm.com/bikes/txhill.htm.  A video for sale highlighting biking in this area.

Skert's "Picking Up a Dropped Bike" Instruction: www.pinkribbonrides.com/dropped.html. A good instructional tool for all of us.

Motorcycle Safety Foundation: www.msf-usa.org. Be sure to watch their videos on-line.

The Motorcycle School: www.themotorcycleschool.com. Located in San Antonio and Victoria, Texas. Be sure to watch their videos on-line.

Texas Dept. of Public Safety, Motorcycle Safety Unit: www.txdps.state.tx.us/msb

Motorcycle Info & Accessories: http://motorcycleinfo.calsci.com. Helpful info.

Mica Peak: http://micapeak.com. Lots of good resources.

Bikez: www.bikez.com. Online Motorcycle Catalogue. Technical specifications of all motorcycles made since 1970.

Ride Texas Magazine & Texas Motorcycle Magazine: http://texmoto.com. The on-line Texas motorcycle travel magazine.  www.ridetexas.com

Article: The Great Escape: Motorcycling in the Hill Country, April 2007, Texas Highways Magazine.  www.texashighways.com

Motorcycle Clubs & Associations: www.dropbears.com/bikelinks/clubs.htm#usa

American Motorcycle Association: www.ama-cycle.org/index.asp

Open Road Journey: www.openroadjourney.com Ride, share, discover.

HILL COUNTRY BIKER EVENTS & RALLIES (also see www.lets-ride.com/event/texas.htm, and www.motorcycleevents.com):

Send us your events to post here. 

HILL COUNTRY LOOPS & NOTED RIDES (Note, References are to 2007 Ride Texas Magazine (RTM) 's Best in Texas Readers' Choice Awards):

STARTING IN LEAKEY: Twisties with hair pin turns and steeps. Not for beginners.

Three Sisters Loop: FM 337, 335, and 336. This loop is about 96 miles. It’s the best of them all, about 2 1/2 hours. Also called "The Three Twisted Sisters".

Bandera Loop: RR337 east, Hwy 16, Hwy 470west, 1050 west, Hwy83 north to Leakey.

Kerrville Loop: RR337 east, Hwy 187 north, Hwy 39 east, Hwy 27, Hwy 16 south, RR337 west  to Leakey.

Brackettville Loop: RR337 west, Hwy 55 south, RR334 west, from Bracketville you can travel on 674 to Rocksprings and return on Hwy55 or RR335 to Camp Wood and RR337 to Leakey.

OTHER LOOPS & NOTED RIDES:

FM 337: A 58 mile roller coaster running from Medina through Vanderpool and Leakey to Camp Wood.  Voted the #1 Best Fall Colors, #8 Top Wildflower Road, #1 of Top 5 Hill Country Roads, & #2 of Top 10 Scenic Overlooks,, by RTM.

FM 335: Camp Wood to TX 41: #2 of Top 5 Hill Country Roads, by RTM.

FM 336: Leakey to TX 41: #3 of Top 5 Hill Country Roads, by RTM.

US 377, Rocksprings to Junction: Voted the #1 Best Sections of US Highway, & #2 of Top 10 Scenic Overlooks, by RTM.

FM 187, Utopia to TX 39: Voted the #1 Best Fall Colors Road by Ride Texas Magazine. Voted the #2 Best Fall Colors Road by RTM.

Willow City Loop: (N of Fredericksburg off Hwy 16). RR1323 & Willow Loop, to Hwy 16 and back. See Willow City above for 2 great biker bars. Voted the #1 Top Wildflower Road by RTM.

FM 1323, Willow City to US 281: Voted the #7 Top Wildflower Road by RTM.

US Hwy 290 to Waller: Voted the #2 Top Wildflower Road by RTM.

FM 1431: Cedar Park to Lake Buchanan. Voted #5 of Top 5 Hill Country Roads, by RTM.

RM 473: (from Hwy 281 below Blanco, through Kendalia, Sisterdale, Comfort).

Hwy 16, Llano to Bandera: Voted the #3 Top Wildflower Road & #1 Top Sections of State Highways by Ride Texas Magazine.

US 281, Lampasas to Johnson City: Voted the #10 Top Wildflower Road by RTM.

Devil's Backbone (RM 32): Wimberley.  Voted #1 of Top 10 Scenic Overlooks, by RTM.

US 83, Uvalde to TX 39: Voted the #5 Best Sections of US Highway by RTM

US 81, North of Leakey: Voted #3 of Top 10 Scenic Overlooks, by RTM.

RIVER ROAD (Along Guadalupe River), Gruene-New Braunfels: Voted #4 of Top 10 Scenic Overlooks, by RTM.

US 281, Marble Falls Overlook: Voted #5 of Top 10 Scenic Overlooks, by RTM.

State Hwy 965

FM 1376 to FM 1888 to FM 1623 (sunset ride)

State Hwy 39 Hunt (river ride)

SPECIAL LODGING IN JOHNSON CITY:  SANDY ROAD GUEST HAUS, An Upscale Western-style Guest House in a Beautiful Ranch Setting in the Gorgeous Texas Hill Country, Reservations & Information: Office: 281-300-7177, Fax: 281-754-4775, 9242 RR 1320, Johnson City, TX 78636. Web: www.SandyRoadGuestHaus.com,  Email: info@SandyRoadGuestHaus.com. This guest house is on Sandy Road, the well-known biker route to Willow City.  One queen bed and a pull-out couch. Bikers welcome.