San Angelo to Lubbock. 185 miles. 23rd October 2025.
Loading the car after breakfast there was a definite chill in the air this morning so no air conditioning was required as we started on our journey northward. Leaving the hotel we made a right turn onto the US87, the satnav announced “stay on this road for the next 179 miles” we then knew that this was going to be a long straight drive.
The speed limits in Texas on this type of road, which is equivalent to a dual carriageway in the U.K. is 75 mph once out of the towns, although we were quite content to cruise at 65-70 mph.The limit applies to all vehicles no matter what size so very often a very large truck would appear in my rear view, pull into the left hand lane and slowly disappear into the distance. Generally though the roads were not busy except in the towns and the numerous roadworks.
The roads were very dusty, much of the countryside is agricultural and harvesting looks to be in full swing with bales of hay and cotton in the fields.
Water seems to be in short supply as there has been little rain and signs along the route announce “water for sale”. What is not in short supply is oil and gas with the pumps and derricks scattered throughout the journey and excess gas being burnt producing a sulphurous smell.
Wind power also seems important judging by the number of turbines standing along the horizon.
We arrived at our hotel at around 1pm, too early for our room but had a pleasant walk around the block to a restaurant for lunch.
The hotel is located close to the Lubbock campus of Texas Tech University and unlike all the other places we have stayed there are pavements. Walking along tree lined streets through very nice looking student accommodation we made our way to an area that contained various eateries.
We chose one called “Chili’s” and treated ourselves to shrimp fajitas (Sylvia) ……….
and sirloin steak (Me) and were not disappointed.
A great start to our stay in Lubbock.