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Devils Backbone Overlook
Ranch to Market 32, Canyon Lake, TX 78133, United States
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Devils Backbone Overlook

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De
Review №1

Wanted to get there before sunset but missed it . Seeing the sunset was beautiful.

Ca
Review №2

Brush blocks view, but nice little spot if you need to pullover for anything.

Av
Review №3

There was too much vegetation today to see the view. The memorabilia left on the fence was interesting. It’s a great scenic drive to get there too.

DS
Review №4

Nice view if you can get past the fencing at the rest area. You can stop other places but at your own safety.

Re
Review №5

Nice and convenient stopping point to stretch the legs, take in the beauty of Texas Hill Country. Humans have posted shrines along the chainlink fence which kind of gives a folkloric ambiance. It lacks a restroom. Taxpayers should demand a restroom be installed.

Mi
Review №6

Brush and bushes obstructed good view. Some mementos placed on the fence are a bit tacky.

Da
Review №7

It is a wonderful beautiful view. Need to park on side of road to get better pictures and viewing.

Vi
Review №8

We love to go here when in the mood for a scenic drive. Great view, great road. Would specially recommend going here right after a rain for that much more of a refreshing view and feel.

Br
Review №9

Bring something to leave in fence. Drive is beautiful but be careful on the road. Only stop at overlook. Can see for miles in both directions.

Ch
Review №10

Very cool place... A lot of special mementos to lost loved ones...

Ka
Review №11

Beautiful scenery, spooky history...very cool place. Sunset is amazing from this vantage point.

Co
Review №12

Dont know if its a dangerous place in the road, but there are a lot of memorials on the fence here. Very sad if you arent prepared for it.Only way to see the view is to hop on the picnic table, except maybe in the dead of winter.

co
Review №13

Every time I ride my bike or drive my truck across the Devils Backbone I stop at the overlook. There are over 100 memorials attached to the fence surrounding it. It may be as simple as a banana tied to it, a hand carved cross with a name and date on it, pictures, locks, flowers, etc. But what I spend the most time looking at are the letters written to the deceased. Its very touching to read. If you drive The Backbone PLEASE be careful and observe the signs. The drop offs are approximately 100 high. If you go over the edge there wont be much hope for you. Be respectful. Each memorial is dedicated to someone who was loved.

Pe
Review №14

Nice place between San Antonio and Austin for a little picnic.

Au
Review №15

The picnic area was very clean and well maintained.

Ja
Review №16

This is a great place to stop and have a picnic lunch. Great views and very sturdy steel picnic tables under cover of shade.

Ka
Review №17

A nice little picnic spot with a view. Although a lot of the view is obstructed by a fence and the foliage growing beyond the fence. A lot of memorabilia on the fence and nearby. No designated parking spots; have to park on the drive through the picnic spot. Driving in the area is beautiful.

An
Review №18

Stopped here to checkout the view. I found the fencing very interesting. Dont know why the things were there but Im sure they were sentimental to the people that put them there. Not much for parking its just to drive through rest area and its for both directions. The parking is on the drive-thru area. But if youre just stopping for a quick walk around and to stretch your legs its perfect and the view is amazing.

Ju
Review №19

Beautiful place. People leave keepsakes on the overlooks fence

Mi
Review №20

Loved it, beautiful but a bit hard to see through the high growth along the fence

Br
Review №21

This is my favorite place in Texas so far. Ive seen many celestial events from this location. I highly recommended to put on Echoes by pink Floyd and let the stars carry you away

Ke
Review №22

Nice ride on my bike. Only issue is the growth of weeds behind the fence block the view from the overlook.

Re
Review №23

Absolutely gorgeous place. Love seeing all the memorials.

Wi
Review №24

This is a really fun ride. There is some challenging corners due to poor road conditions, so pay attention to the signage stating that its a 50 mph curve. Just go ahead and do the 50 and enjoy the ride instead of the possible alternative.The scenery is beautiful, I just love all the green and the views of the valleys. This is a fun ride, beginners can ride it if youre comfortable with your bike. Just take it slowly and enjoy. Its geared more towards a intermediate rider in my opinion. Whatever its geared towards just ride it, say youve rode it and just have fun. After all thats really what its all about. Keep the shiney side up brothers and sisters, peace..

IS
Review №25

The best scenery in Texas. This really is a breathtaking view

To
Review №26

Beautiful area. I was quite surprised how big everything seemed. Pictures dont do this place justice. Its definitely worth the trip. It was only a 1.5 hour trip from Austin with traffic. Beautiful scenery along the way. Wish I had more time to explore.The little picnic area is nice but the views arent so great with the fence and all.

Ro
Review №27

Beautiful scenery. Mementos are very sad.

Kh
Review №28

Excellent view of the breathtaking and awe inspiring landscape!

Mi
Review №29

Stumbled apon this cool spot.

Pr
Review №30

Spectacular views. Nice picnic area.

Ni
Review №31

We were 2 days into our 3-day trek through the Texas Hill Country. Both of us camping with congestion wrapped around our chests, not wanting to leave Lost Maples State Natural Area. We knew itd be a long 2-hour drive snaking our way to Pedernales in my brown F-150. Then at Pedernales Falls State Park, wed just rinse and repeat what we did at Lost Maples: lugging our packs two miles to the primitive campsite with our cough- & snot-ridden bodies writhing to the bone. But Eva was more hardcore at this camping stuff than I was. If she wasnt going to give up, then neither would I. For our 2nd night, wed slowly hike the trails, take in the dry winter air, and soak in the stars as much as possible. Sometimes wed talk. Sometimes the silence together was better.This weekend was our last hurrah. Shed be headed toward the South Pacific in two weeks time, leaving on a research vessel, sailing there in the warm suns and winds. She was going to leave me behind in Texas. And that was okay. At least Id be in Texas.I loved spending time with her but knew when it started that itd end just as quickly. I had to come to peace that Eva came right at the right time, disabusing me of what I thought of myself, made me want more of myself. Not for her specifically but for someone. She was a warm glow on a cold January weekend. Everything was something to laugh at when we were together. Maybe a tune we could hum. Another story to tell. She made me feel like I deserved more of that.So, twisting and turning our way toward Wimberly down RM 32, cutting over Canyon Lake, we were hungry for our favorite dishes from Kates Place. With stomachs full of an assortment of bananas, granola, apples, instant coffees, and sterno-heated package foods, our sick bodies craved something more. Thats why we each independently hoped the other would want something from Kates Place (and not mind the detour). Evas big smile made light of our clip, going 15 over the speed limit. The curl of her lips made me forget my fatigue long enough to notice a road sign alerting me of an oncoming overlook spot. With all the curves of the two-lane country road coiling us north and south as we went eastward, I had had split-second glances at almost-great views. So, I almost immediately knew a designated overlook would be paradise. I made the quick decision to stop. Itd be an extra 15 minutes, but what the hell.I pulled into the curved drive, getting lucky with the traffic in front of me and behind. Opening the doors, we noted we were overdressed for the temperature that had warmed up since we started driving. So, we sloughed off a layer of our clothes. I took off the thermal under my shirt and she removed her extra layer of pants. I stretched my arms up and out as I walk over to the picnic table. Sitting down, I took a decongestant while removing a 2nd one to give to Eva. A westerly wind was snaking itself over and through the trees and their leaves. Cars humming by on the other side of my truck. I looked at Eva cutely squirming out of her pants in the passenger seat, but then my attention turned toward the grand vista through the opening in the shrub-line. The wind was hissing.Looking north toward where wed be heading, I realized that shed just become a memory once we left this place. Not tomorrow. Not the following week or month. But someday. Eva slammed the door close and sauntered over with our last Red Delicious, her long arms swinging. She took a bite out of it as I saw her actually taking in the beautiful sight. She swallowed the decongestant I hand her. Eva then swung her leg over the bench to sit on my side, her back facing me. She scooted her butt back. I slowly wrapped my arms around her to bring her closer. I smelled her hair as we intertwined fingers with one hand. We stared in silence, out toward where wed be heading.As the westerly wind picked up, the hiss turned into a hum. Eva took a 2nd bite. Her congested chest humming. Pressed against her back, I inhaled deeply. Eva moved the apple toward my face and asked, Want some?

T.
Review №32

Fun stoo for sunsets or a quick stop to snack.

Ge
Review №33

Nice scenic.

Ro
Review №34

Great view, although a bit disappointed with the amount of stuff a fixed to the fence.

Er
Review №35

Say what you will about Mephistopheles, spineless he aint. Come see for yourself, its quite a view.

He
Review №36

Cloudy but interesting

my
Review №37

Could not see anything trees too tall

An
Review №38

I went at night so I couldnt see anything.

Mi
Review №39

I love this area in the Hill Country. Youll see some of the prettiest Texas Sunsets out here, as well as, lots of shining stars. I only wish the Rest Area didnt have as much tree coverage because in that specific spot. As its hard to see over the tree to the hills.

Am
Review №40

Beautiful overlook. Good place to stop and stretch your legs. People place trinkets and memorials on fence for lost loved ones. Very neat to look and pay respect. But I have placed stuff before and it has been stolen. Its a shame how disrespectful people are now days.

To
Review №41

Its okay. Too much high vegetation growth impedes much the view.

He
Review №42

Great view. Fun road to drive

Je
Review №43

One of the most beautiful places in the hill country.

Mi
Review №44

Honestly, I don’t get what the big deal is about this place as a motorcycle riders attraction. I had heard about it many times so decided to ride it while we were in the Wimberley area. There’s really nothing special about it at all. Just when I was starting to get into it, it was over. Literally about 5 curves. Beautiful area, but as a place to travel to ride a bike, it definitely wasn’t something I would recommend or do again. Much better places all around in the hill country.

Je
Review №45

Sweet little road side rest spot to enjoy the view.

Ed
Review №46

My Heavenly Hill

G-
Review №47

Great view! But the only thing you see is a cliff and fence with crosses all over it.

Ra
Review №48

Always love this place however this day it smelled like rotten road kill. Both a dead deer and dog were at the rest area rotting in the warm sun. Might want to check more frequently for that sort of thing

Br
Review №49

The view was nice, but can only see it when driving by. No plasce to stop.

Jo
Review №50

Beautiful view, and somewhat out of the way which makes it nice. Doesnt seem practical for a planned visit but if youre in the area its nice and quiet, with little traffic. Maybe good for a date or even a proposal if you plan it with the sunset.

jo
Review №51

Beautiful views and a fund ride.

LA
Review №52

Nice lookout but you have to get on picnic table for a good view.

Ra
Review №53

Theres not much to see. A 10 chain link fence, overgrown with weeds and ivy. Theres a picnic table that if youre 6ft tall you might be able to see. Im 5-9 and couldnt see anything

Br
Review №54

One of my favorite places to stop and enjoy the view. I love it.

Ga
Review №55

Awesome road leading to this beautiful view.

Kr
Review №56

Love looking at all the things people have left on the fence

Ti
Review №57

Nice drive!

Ab
Review №58

It is just a test area. The distant hills which is the Devils Backbone is obstructed from view. There are numerous monuments to accident victims at the rest area. Apparently there is a gorge off the hiway here. The site is unmarked.

Au
Review №59

Good view but only better in this tree

Mi
Review №60

Beautiful spot to stretch your legs or have a quick picnic. There is also a pokestop here and always a bunch of Pokémon spawning if your a Pokémon go fan. The stretch of road is very curvy and picturesque. Ride my motorcycle down it everyday and it never fails to leave a smile on my face. The Indians in the area considered it sacred land so please respect it and keep it beautiful for everyone else to see.

Ed
Review №61

Was great to go back there again, but where was the Sign ?? Gotta go back again. Was a great trip for us on our Spyder!

Sa
Review №62

Nice little spot to pull over and take in the view. Theres a lot of memorials set up along the fence and even interwoven into the fence. If you need a break from driving, this is the spot.

Sa
Review №63

Beautiful spot to take in the hill country. Pictures dont do it justice, clean spot to stop at.

Al
Review №64

This has long been one of my favorite spots. Nicely photogenic - the hills roll away into the distance.

Ji
Review №65

Trees start to block the panoramic view at this overlook. Lots of broken glasses around picnic tables.

Ro
Review №66

A great place to go and experience the supernatural.

Ha
Review №67

Great little ride. With views of the Hill Country!

Jo
Review №68

Nice roadside park although it lacks any facilities. The crosses on the fence are creepy but cool.

ro
Review №69

This is really an awesome place to visit beautiful site and that one picnic spot that overlooks the Hill country is awesome definitely recommend the scenic route.

DA
Review №70

Beautiful scenery great place to picnic

Br
Review №71

Its a nice pull-off overlook. Couple picnic tables. Lots of memorials. Theres a fence with bushes growing, which cut down on the views.

Te
Review №72

Beautiful view. Haunting of so many crosses put up of people who HV bn killed on backbone

Da
Review №73

Very Scenic part of Texas. Road winds along the top of a ridge. great Overlook stop of the Hill country along the way. If you havent driven it, you got to check it out especially if youre driving it on a motorcycle

Do
Review №74

Fantastic view of the Texas Hill Country

MA
Review №75

We had a great picnic there. Great view, company and food!

Ch
Review №76

Great view of the Texas Hill Country off one of my favorite local roads. Now, heres hoping El Rancho Cima doesnt get turned into a development and the views become nothing but million dollar houses.

No
Review №77

It used to be better, before it was cluttered with tributes to what I assume are dead folks. Im not trying to be a jerk, but who wants to see chain link fence covered in trinkets blocking a SCENIC OVERLOOK. The ride up there is the only good part now. I had photos but deleted them from the phone because they were so ugly.

A
Review №78

Beautiful Scenic Drive in the Hill Country of Texas. We camped near here and drove this scenic route several times. It is really special, a rare treat to see such beauty.

Ra
Review №79

Always beautiful, either on the fence or across the view

Mi
Review №80

Would be five stars if the view was not obstructed by trees. Beauriful.

Ri
Review №81

Its a long way down

Wa
Review №82

Nice relaxing place. Lots of memorials, though. Little open grills to use. No restrooms. Be careful getting back on R.R. 32, blind spots, and locals fly through there. Great views.

Te
Review №83

The fence and overgrowth behind it extremely limits the view!

Be
Review №84

Just about halfway from Austin to escaping at Canton Lake. Great place for a picnic and to enjoy the view. The Bluebonnets are CRAZY!

Ke
Review №85

Kinda haunting to the all the crosses on the fence.... Allot of folks died going over that cliff

da
Review №86

Amazing views!

An
Review №87

Beautiful views and so peaceful.

Je
Review №88

Pretty. Lots of peaceful activity in area and surrounding areas. People acted respectful and appropriate.

Da
Review №89

Riding threw heavy rains going to Luckenbach then sunshine on the way.. Still one of our hightlights and fantabulous both ways

an
Review №90

Beautiful

To
Review №91

Unique

Da
Review №92

Great view of the hill country

Ja
Review №93

It is such a beautiful place very calming

Al
Review №94

A beautiful spot in Texas! Make sure to check it out!

Da
Review №95

I visit this place frequently. One of the most beautiful and peaceful sites you will see, and definitely a great stop if youre traveling. Theres a few grills, trash cans, and onnings if you want to have a nice picnic. Highly recommended.

Cp
Review №96

One of my favorite locations in all of Texas, for sure

Ja
Review №97

Beautiful view. If the other side of the fence was trimmed just a little bit, I would go up to 5 stars.

Da
Review №98

The brush on the other side of the fence was to tall to see anything

Ti
Review №99

Small cozy picnic area, just watch carefully for the entrance/exits

Ja
Review №100

I had read a lot about great drives through the Hill Country. This one was...okay. I mean its a fun drive and there are a couple spots with decent views, but theres nothing that makes this road special compared to any number of other Farm-to-Market or Ranch Roads. Try FM 963 between Oakalla and Burnet. Now THATs a fun, twisty, challenging road to drive!

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.5 Rating
  • Address:Ranch to Market 32, Canyon Lake, TX 78133, United States
Categories
  • Tourist attraction
  • Scenic spot
Working hours
  • Monday:Open 24 hours
  • Tuesday:Open 24 hours
  • Wednesday:Open 24 hours
  • Thursday:Open 24 hours
  • Friday:Open 24 hours
  • Saturday:Open 24 hours
  • Sunday:Open 24 hours
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