Texas is starting to turn blue! Thanks to our blooming Bluebonnets. 290 west toward Brenham, is just one of many scenic routes where our flower flourishes. If you prefer to stay in the 610 Loop, the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center is at 4501 Woodway Drive is a beautiful place to take your dog for a walk, a jog, or for taking pictures. The Lupinus Texensis or Bluebonnet lives there in the open field areas. She proudly reigns in all her glory as our state flower.
Did you know that Texas is the only state where these buds grow naturally? There are more good things to know about Texas and Bluebonnets. Ennis was designated by the 1997 State Legislature as the home of the "Official Texas Bluebonnet Trail" and was named the Official Bluebonnet City of Texas. During April, Ennis showcases over 40 miles of mapped driving Bluebonnet Trails sponsored by the Ennis Garden Club. These trails are the oldest in the state, and tens of thousands of visitors make the short trek to Ennis to view this beautiful wildflower show.
Route 281, to the Willow City Loop, just north of Fredericksburg is the road most traveled by Bluebonnet sightseers. The scene will make your eyes turn blue. The Texas Hill Country was created by ten communities and offers a self-guided tour to see these wildflowers along the roadsides from late March through June. You can see other views along with other colorful wildflowers by taking Hwy 29 which runs from Georgetown at I-35 through Burnet, Llano, and Mason.
In 2016, Kingsland, Texas was crowned the king of the Bluebonnets. If you enjoy photo opportunities, then make your way to this town which is renowned for its hiking trails. If you enjoy driving with family, friends, and your camera then consider taking the 3.5 hours, or an approximately 224-mile trip to Kingsland. The route is I-10 West and TX-71 West. The Bluebonnets will be as far as your eyes can see.
Sometimes short excursions to enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells of all that Texas has to offer are better than more extravagant options. Connecting with family and friends creates memories that last a lifetime and the most breathtaking pictures for your Facebook and Instagram pages. If you are a private person, you can always save your images in an electronic folder for your personal enjoyment later. Since Texas is turning blue, consider either a local trip in Houston or go north and west toward the central part of the state, to appreciate all that is blue in the Lone Star State.
When you and your family are on your Bluebonnet trek, remember safety first. Other creatures love our state flower as much as you, such as snakes, bees, spiders, and in some areas, coyote.
Photo Credit: Syneetra Williams
