You Might Be Lost, But At Least You're on an RM Road: A Guide to Texas' Quirky Highways
So, you're cruisin' through the great state of Texas, boots scootin' (metaphorically, unless you're actually wearing boots), and you see a sign for an RM road. You squint, maybe even raise an eyebrow. What in the yeehaw is an RM road?
Fear not, fellow traveler! This here guide will be your compass on the backroads of Texas.
FM vs RM: Don't Ranch Your Fries, Friend!
First things first. You might be thinkin', "Isn't that the same as an FM road?" Well, bless your cotton socks, that's a common misconception. Here's the lowdown:
- FM: Stands for Farm to Market. These roads connect, you guessed it, farms to markets! They're the workhorses of the Texas countryside, hauling everything from your grandma's prize-winning pumpkins to that delicious steak you're about to devour.
- RM: Ah, the Ranch to Market. These roads cater to our ranching friends, taking them and their wranglers (or maybe just a pick-up truck full of hay) from their ranches to, well, you get the idea.
There's a subtle difference: FM roads tend to be in more populated areas, while RMs venture deeper into ranch country. Think of it this way: FMs are where you might find a charming farmers market, while RMs lead you to wide-open spaces where cattle roam free (and you might just see a tumbleweed or two blow by).
Here's the kicker: FM and RM roads share the same numbering system. So, there's no RM 17 and FM 17. They're all just one big happy family of Farm or Ranch to Market roads, depending on where they take you.
Hitting the RM Road: What to Expect (Besides Longhorns)
Now that you know the RM drill, let's talk about what you might encounter on your journey:
- The Great Scenery: Prepare to be amazed by wide-open vistas, rolling hills, and maybe even a glimpse of the majestic Texas Hill Country. It's a feast for the eyes, especially if you're coming from the hustle and bustle of city life.
- The Not-So-Great Scenery: Let's be honest, sometimes these roads can get a little...well...dusty. And maybe a little bumpy. But hey, that's part of the adventure, right?
- The Local Wildlife: Keep your eyes peeled for deer, armadillos, and the occasional roadrunner (meep-meep!). Just remember, these are their roads, so be courteous and share the space.
- The Unexpected Detour: Sometimes, an RM road might take a turn for the adventurous. You might find a washed-out bridge (don't worry, these are usually fixed pretty quickly), or a herd of cattle blocking the way (just wait patiently, they'll eventually mosey on).
RM Road Trip Essentials: More Than Just Snacks
Sure, pack your snacks (beef jerky anyone?), sunscreen, and a good playlist (country music highly recommended). But here are some additional essentials for your RM road trip:
- A Sense of Humor: Things might not always go according to plan, but that's half the fun! Embrace the unexpected and enjoy the ride.
- A Good Map (or GPS with Offline Capability): Cell service can be spotty on RM roads. A trusty map (or a GPS that can download maps for offline use) will be your best friend.
- A Positive Attitude: Sometimes, the journey is the destination. So, relax, take in the scenery, and enjoy the unique experience that an RM road offers.
So there you have it, folks! Now you're ready to conquer the RM roads of Texas. Remember, it's not just about getting from point A to point B, it's about the adventure along the way. Happy travels!
