Davis Mountains near Fort Davis State Park

43 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Sport - Touring

This ride as listed has two different personalities as the author suggests. 118 from Fort Davis takes you up into the Davis Mountains and into some fun twisty roads and you should plan to make a stop at McDonald Observatory. They have a nice snack bar with real food if needed although we had lunch in Fort Davis at the Drug Store which is an old soda fountain type of restaurant. HWY 17 is a more tame road but definitely has some fun sweeping turns and great scenery. Good road conditions the entire route.

4 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Adventure Touring

Amazing ride. I recommend 118 from Alpine, to Ft Davis, 118 loops around past the McDonald Observatory, then to 166. 166 loops back to 17 / 118. It’s the No Country for Old Men bike ride loop. Scenery is like no other.

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.

16 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Sport - Touring

I had a chance to do 118 solo last week. I ran from Alpine through Ft Davis to Rt 166 Scenic loop. This is a good road! I've done the Tail, the Snake, the million dollar highway 555 and the Dolomites in Italy. This is a good road. The road from Ft Davis to the McDonald observatory is the highlight. West of the observatory the road has more dips and bumps but is a thrill a minute. The 166 Scenic loop back to Ft Davis is more calm but very scenic. Be advised there is open range. That means cattle is possible but quite rare. This is west Texas so it is an event to get there. If you are planning Big Bend make time for this loop. I also endorse the Drug Store in Ft Davis. The Historic fort itself is enlightening. Take the tour.