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AREA ATTRACTIONS

While the X Bar Ranch may be only a few short hours from the nearest large city it is a world away when it comes to being enveloped in the peaceful and calming surrounds of this open space. From relaxing in a rocker on the back deck to a hike along the trails or possibly taking an excursion to an area attraction, there's plenty to see and do if you're so inclined. 
All distances are approximate and are calculated from/to the Live Oak Lodge. The region is home to a number of historic sites and varied attractions- explore and enjoy! 

20 minutes away
caverns of sonora
caverns of sonora
At the Caverns of Sonora you'll find yourself 60 feet underground observing a masterpiece in the making. Known as one of the most beautiful and unique show caves in the U.S. - if not the world - the Caverns of Sonora features a plethora of incredibly unique formations including crystal-like stalagmites, stalactites, helctites, soda straws, 'cave bacon' and more. Open daily (except for Christmas) visitors can enjoy walking tours that last approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes and leave continuously throughout the day. Specialty tours include the Discovery Challenge Tour which takes you off the beaten path, and the Photo Tour. Specialty tours require advance reservations.
1 hour away
FORT CONCHO
FORT CONCHO
Founded as a frontier army post in 1867 at the junction of the North and Middle Concho Rivers, Fort Concho provided protection to frontier settlements and trade routes. Today, Fort Concho National Historic Landmark encompasses most of the former army post and includes 23 original and restored fort structures. Periodically living history demonstrations are held and feature soldiers in authentic dress conducting exercises on the parade grounds.

1 hour away
FORT MCKAVETT
FORT MCKAVETT
Fort McKavett was founded in 1852 on the headwaters of the San Saba River. The state historic site consists of 15 buildings in near original condition. These buildings include officers' quarters, barracks, a hospital, a school house, a bakery, post headquarters and more. The fort was established as a deterrent to Native American raids, primarily Comanche and Lipan Apache, and to provide protection for travelers on the Upper El Paso Road, an important artery for emigration to the California gold fields. Around the corner from the fort you can have a drink at the Fort Trading Post. The Fort Trading post is an authentic place bedecked in collective memorabilia.
1 hour away
SAN ANGELO
SAN ANGELO
In the midst of dry and rugged West Texas ranching country, San Angelo is regarded by many as an oasis. Not only is it blessed with more water than most of the region, it is an oasis of attractions and activities. Have a leisure stroll along the Concho "River Walk" or El Paseo de Santa Angela. The Cactus Hotel was Conrad Hilton's fourth hotel. Concho Avenue, the first street of Santa Angela, shares simple charm with a delightful variety of shops. San Angelo is also home to the Producers Livestock Auction, the largest sheep auction in the U.S., second largest in the world, and one of the largest cattle auctions in Texas. Truly an authentic slice of Texas Heritage.

45 minutes away
THE HUMMER HOUSE
THE HUMMER HOUSE
Eighteen miles south of San Angelo, Texas, nature enthusiasts are welcome to visit the Hummer House. Located near the banks of the spring-fed South Concho River, the Hummer House is renowned for the thousands of tiny hummingbirds that visit the acreage annually. The Hummer House is the summer home to Texas' largest concentration of breeding Black-chinned Hummingbirds. View it all from the observation room and see hummingbirds like you've never seen them before.
X Bar Ranch along the Texas Forts Trail
The Texas Forts Trail is located in West Central Texas and encompasses 25 counties that are along, within or directly adjacent to the actual trail. The trail features eight historic forts, one Spanish Presidio and numerous other historic and cultural attractions.

Pleasure Driving on the Ranch
Pleasure Driving on the Ranch
We have maps of the ranch, and as long as you are sure you can find your way around and back to your lodging quarters without getting lost or on a neighboring property, you’re welcome to drive around the ranch. We request that you stay on main caliche roadways and do not pleasure drive during or after heavy rains.
2.25 hours away
SEMINOLE CANYON STATE PARK
SEMINOLE CANYON STATE PARK
Adjacent to Amistad National Recreational Area and operated by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Seminole Canyon State Park is home to several rock shelters including Panther Cave and the Fate Bell Shelter. The rock shelters bear ancient pictographs left behind by early man nearly 7,000 years ago. Today the park serves as an excellent resource for archeological pursuits, birding, nature viewing, hiking and more. Reconnect with history with a visit to Seminole Canyon State Park.

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SCENIC ROUTES

The X Bar Ranch may be located approximately 3 hours from the nearest large city but that doesn't mean there isn't plenty to see while you're here. Schleicher and surrounding counties are full of history and attractions and below you'll find our suggestions on how to best experience the area.
All distances are approximate and are calculated from/to the Live Oak Lodge. There are many, many more miles of paved country roads (both county and state) that are lightly traveled and will lead you through some very scenic country. Please inquire with us if you would like a custom route designed to meet your interests and needs.

 The Heart of Texas Wildlife Trail is a state-designated system of trails and wildlife sanctuaries in Central Texas in the United States. It is one of the four major wildlife trail systems designated by the State of Texas. The trail system is divided into two main groupings of wildlife viewing sites.
The Texas Forts Trail is located in West Central Texas and encompasses 25 counties that are along, within or directly adjacent to the actual trail. The trail features eight historic forts, one Spanish Presidio and numerous other historic and cultural attractions.
 At highway entrance to X Bar Ranch (on FM 2129) turn left (west) and take FM 2129 west about 7-8 miles until it dead-ends into FM 1312. At FM 1312 turn left and go about 1.5 miles. Turn right to get on to I-10 east, direction Sonora. Approximately 4 miles later, take Exit 392 and go south. Alternatively, you can stay on RM 1312 until you reach RR 1989, turn right on RR 1989 (south) and follow the signs to the Caverns.
 Via Sonora Caverns Road aka RR1989 (see directions above to get to RR 1989), which later turns into County Road 410, CR 410 T's into Ranch Road 189 (stay right), and that T's into Hwy. 163. At Hwy. 163 go north to Ozona, then take I-10 east to RM1312, take RM 1312 east to RM 2129, turn left on RM 2129 and head east to X Bar Ranch, 105 mile loop.
Via Sonora Caverns Road aka RR 1989 (see directions above to get to RR 1989) which later turns into County Road 410, CR 410 T's into Ranch Road 189 (stay right), and that T's into Hwy. 163. Take Hwy. 163 South to Comstock, US 90 west to Seminole Canyon SP. Return US 90 east to Hyw. 163 north to Ozona, to I-10 east to RM1312, to RM2129 to X Bar Ranch, 210 miles round trip.
Via I-10 east through Sonora, Rm 864 t To Ft. McKavett 60 miles one way. Return via Toe Nail Trail (turn north just east of the fort and fire station at the Fort Trading Post) to US 190, west to Eldorado, US 277 south to RM 2129 to X Bar Ranch total 120 miles round trip.
Via Eldorado RM 2129 east to US 277 north, through Eldorado on to San Angelo, 130 miles round trip.
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There's something for everyone.