Jack Maguire said, "The bluebonnet is to Texas what the shamrock is to Ireland, the cherry blossom to Japan, the lily to France, the rose to England and the tulip to Holland." Bluebonnets are the state flower of Texas and the landmark of the Texas plains. They are natural only to this southern state. Each spring, the roadsides are covered with this wildflower, and tourists and locals alike flock to these sites to follow the trails across Texas.
Burnet is known as the "Bluebonnet Capital of Texas." It is located in the hill country of Texas, one of the most populous locations for bluebonnets, about 40 miles northwest of Austin, Texas' capital. This flower abounds along the highways, farm roads and ranch roads. The city hosts a bluebonnet festival every year during the second week of April.
Ennis, Texas is home of the "Official Texas Bluebonnet Trail." Ennis is roughly 45 minutes south of Dallas. Bluebonnets in this part of the country bloom and thrive during the first part of April. During this month, 40 miles of bluebonnet trails are showcased by the Ennis Garden Club. There is the option of exploring the trails with a guide. The city hosts festivals in April for tourists and locals. Parks, playgrounds and picnic areas are available for families.
Austin, the capital of Texas, is an ideal beginning for visitors determined to travel the trails and experience a taste of Texas history and culture. Austin is the home of the National Wildflower Research Center, which informs and educates the public on the importance of wildflowers in this state. Botanists answer questions at different locales along the trail. The trail heads west out of the city and into Texas' Hill Country.
Lake Buchanan is one of the largest lakes in the Highland Chain and a popular place for bluebonnet festivities. Miles of shoreline are undeveloped, allowing bluebonnets to flourish in their natural habitat. Multiple fields of bluebonnets coat the shoreline and tourists can stop to enjoy fishing and a free wildlife museum located near the lake. The Vanishing Texas River Cruise is also located in this area and is an ideal way to relax and view the bluebonnet fields and animals of the Texas hills.
